Advice re: trailer purchase.

[02CumminsGuy]

Hey all,

I've been researching to death all my options to get into rv'ing. My wife and I were pretty much decided on buying a Starcraft (jayco) 27' bunkhouse model, but when it came down to numbers neither of us could stomach the 10+ year amortization, and the 5 year loan payment while doable would put too much extra strain on us. We then decided to look for an older, used, and cheap tt/5'er just to see if we're even going to like it. As for who is camping, it will mostly be myself, my wife and our 18 month old daughter. Sometimes some friends and their daughter as well.

Now my questions:

I'm having trouble finding an older tt in my price range (<5000) but there are a ton of 5th wheels available. I am going to to with a 2002, ram 3/4 ton diesel. Is there something I need to know in regards to older 5'ers? There just seems to be a ton of them available cheaply.

Where can I find any info and specs on them? I've tried looking online and am having trouble finding anything. I'm looking for gvw, pin weight, etc.

Any Canadians have any advice on financing a gently used tt/5'er?

Thanks a lot guys.

[02CumminsGuy]

Thanks a lot for your responses. They have been really helpful. I was just wondering about the lack of decent tt's and the availability of decent 5'ers.

Is there any kind of resource where I can find info on these older 5'ers to make sure they fit my rig etc?

[twins89]

Don't be afraid of buying an older fifth wheel. If you can go up to the 7-8 K you can get something nice and still not break the bank. I would search on this forum for all that you should do to be sure you aren't getting a headache. The roof inspection is key, along with the windows. Check for soft spots on the roof, floor, walls, etc. If something doesn't look right- run! There are well maintained nice units that need some TLC that would get you into RVing without the big $$$$. You have the most important part already - A GOOD Tow Vehicle. Be patient, take someone knowledgeable with you. Remember the curtains, carpets, etc can be changed if they are that awful mauve or some other color. You need to make sure the mechanics and roof is sound without leaks.

[jasult]

I never owned a RV trailer before. The one in my signature was for sale on Craigs list in my local area. I paid 4000 dollars and love it. As long as the roof is solid and no leaks the rest can be easily checked out. Open all doors and look for soft spots in floor and sides. Mine had some water leakage and I was able to repair roof. The seller in my case turned all things on and all worked. I am handy so I was not worried. Your truck will pull a 30 foot fiver with no problem. Mine has 1 long slide out and still weighs 10,200 loaded.