Advice on purchasing a used class B

[lucytravel12]

We bought a 1987 Falcon a few years ago. We've loved traveling in it, but we're really too old for the bed above the cab and want some modern amenities. We're looking for a replacement. Less than 10 years old, with either 2 twin beds or at least a queen size. A bathroom I can shower in (I hate campground showers). Any suggestions? Also, are there any sites where I can find advice on how to "inspect" a used camper? Thanks, Lucy

[tbirdman]

The Travato both 59K and 59G layouts have decent size wet showers. The other Bs IMHO have poor excuses for showers. The 59K has the most open layout while the 59G may have the most floor space due to the murphy bed design. You may also want to look at the slightly larger B+ or small Cs unless you desire the stealth look which a true B provides but sacrifices room and holding tank sizes.

[mkguitar]

I was hot on an 09 Era- it drove great, I loved it.

the quality of the rv coach build was shockingly bad, poor "wood" materials, rough saw cuts and blind screws- it looked like a tree house.
I read the post on the '10 with interest, it is 180º from what I thought.

If you see one, pull the cushions and look at the work.

I have been told that more recent models are MUCH better


I like the chinooks I have seen...we came close to a glacier XL, but the extra 7' wouldn;t fit well in my drive...and parking
Spouse solo trips would be out.

some chinooks bed arrangments are clumsy- right in the middle of everything and the bed isn;t as large as our van

mike

[lucytravel12]

We're looking at the ERA, but have also looked at the Chinook, or another B+. Anyone have opinions on the pros and cons of those styles?

[pickerel_cove]

The Winnebago ERA has a great shower/toilet setup not in the aisle. No need to sit on the toilet to shower. There's a fan in the toilet so no steaming up the vehicle either. 20 mpg. We have a 2010 and are happy with the setup and bed length. MDH is under 6'. Check macerator functioning. The Thetford toilet design isn't optimal. Difficult to clean the trap IMHO. When we had to replace a hose and removed the toilet it was easy to see where we were unable to clean. Might be the same for other van types as well.

[mkguitar]

requiring a "wet-bath" will rule out alot of B's- those which use aisle shower and a pan.

unless you have used these and are happy with.

the aisle shower will fill the B with damp air and fog up everything.

all life must stop while the shower is in progress.


we use the campground shower- I wear flip flops.

and when in the boonies we use the outside shower (which many B's have)

some widebodies like the roadtrek 200 series and the pleasure-way excel may have a shower in the can you can use it a seated position, after draping the curtain around.

if the shower is the biggest aspect of you needs, look at a small class C or "B+" as they are sometimes called

there are posts on this forum which discuss inspection and testing when shopping a class B

mike

[stan909]

You know how an rv works.Always ask for fridge to be on before you show up,run generator,use microwave,air conditioner.Lay down on the bed and simulate sleep.Look for stained ceiling to show leaks.Lay down under rig.Look for oil leaks,trans leaks, rust etc... Happy hunting.

[midnightsadie]

look for a used leisure travel van. they got just the right set up,