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tvfrfireman's avatar
tvfrfireman
Explorer
Nov 12, 2020

Cost if Class A diesel pusher inspection

We are finally looking for a late model diesel pusher motorhome. We want an inspection to make sure we aren't buying a coach with lots of issues. We want the engine oil, generator oil, and transmission fluid analyzed. What should we expect to pay for a thorough inspection. Thanks fo r any words of wisdom. Kind regards...David
  • Bruce Brown wrote:
    larry barnhart wrote:
    My friend had 28000 miles on his 40 ft tiffin and the cost to get it home and repaired was $47000.00. 4 different tows but mayor engine work plus other issues. Looked new also needed new injectors and a new radiator from the repair but not included. Shop paid the cost. wish you the best result.

    chevman


    Meanwhile, the other 999,999 are on the road trouble free. :R

    As far as an inspection, call your local truck shop and see what they have to offer.

    That would be nice but no one I know has been that lucky. Chevman
  • Since no one directly answered your question, a competent inspection will run in the $600 to $800 price range. Fluid analysis will run another $100 to $200 depending on what all you want analyzed. In depth engine analysis will run and additional $300 to $500, again depending how extensive you want to go.
  • larry barnhart wrote:
    My friend had 28000 miles on his 40 ft tiffin and the cost to get it home and repaired was $47000.00. 4 different tows but mayor engine work plus other issues. Looked new also needed new injectors and a new radiator from the repair but not included. Shop paid the cost. wish you the best result.

    chevman


    Meanwhile, the other 999,999 are on the road trouble free. :R

    As far as an inspection, call your local truck shop and see what they have to offer.
  • Probably need two inspections:
    - Mechanic to look over the drivetrain and generator.
    - RV tech to look over the RV aspects.

    They are a different set of skills. Probably looking at 2-3hrs for each to do a detailed review.
  • Figure the going shop rate of $130 per hour. It would have to go to one shop to have the running gear items you mentioned to be checked and then to a second RV shop to check for things like roof condition, water leaks, awning conditions, window leaks, leveling hydraulics, tires etc. Check the air conditioners and thermostats for correct operation. Get the refrigerator checked to make sure it cools properly. Get the generator checked and have the its power output checked. Make sure the engine alternator is properly charging the house batteries. This will probably run you four hours at the mechanical shop and six hours at the RV shop. With all of the taxes and shop supplies used it will be around $1,600. This cost does not include any work that needs to be done.

    If you really want to be a diligent owner, after you buy it you should do all of the following so you start off with a clean slate:

    Changes oils in the engine, transmission, leveling hydraulics, rear end and front wheel hubs.
    Change all of the filters in the above components.
    Change the both fuel filters and carry two spares.
    Change the fan and alternator belts and carry a set for spares.
    Change the antifreeze and filter. Old or the wrong antifreeze will eventually ruin your engine.
    Do all of the above for your generator also and carry spare filters.
    Get slide seals lubricated

    When I got mine, I changed out both the house and chassis batteries so I knew everything was good.

    There's a lot more, but this will get you started.

    Bill
  • Before paying for an inspection I’d ask to review the chassis maintenance records. No records, move on.
  • My friend had 28000 miles on his 40 ft tiffin and the cost to get it home and repaired was $47000.00. 4 different tows but mayor engine work plus other issues. Looked new also needed new injectors and a new radiator from the repair but not included. Shop paid the cost. wish you the best result.

    chevman