Alright so I recently decided to start living in an RV permanently (at least for the time being). However, I'm having trouble finding one I'd LOVE to buy. I want something used, under $6,000. I have a list of wants:- Has a generator- 25'-29' (definitely nothing over 30', I don't need much space)- Tub shower (not necessary though, just better for my pup)- Class C- No more than 80k miles- No problems with leaks- sleeps 6 or more- AC- Roof rack with ladder- Cruise control- A little bit of kitchen counter space- Nothing older than 1983However, I just ran across this BEAUTIFUL 1980 Dodge Rockwood Class C motorhome with 80k miles on it. I'm leery of something so old, because I don't want to have to spend loads of money fixing it up to travel across the country come fall. However, this specific RV looks pristine on the inside, has had a recent tune up, new exhaust, battery, and tires, and just generally looks like it has been well taken care of and loved. It's on Craigslist, with I'm also hesitant to use.. and it also happens to be a 10 hour drive away from me, making it difficult to simply go see it. I want to be nearly dedicated to buying it if I'm going to drive that far just to see it.So, does anyone have advice on older RVs, that seemingly look very well taken care of? Does anyone have experience with this specific model? What has everyone's experience with Craigslist RV buying been like? Do you think my list of wants is too much? Any advice you have to offer would be wonderful, thank you!!Alicia

Your budget, or rather lack of budget is going to be your biggest hindrance. For 6K an 80's or maybe a early 90's vintage is about what you can expect. And at that age there is going to be problems. Things like the roof may need replacing, tires for sure, fixing wood rot is a definite possibility. Not to mention appliances that no longer function. Unless you can up that number to at least 10K you are more than likely going to be throwing good money after bad chasing problems.

an 83 is acceptable to you but not an 80???????????????bumpy

donn0128 wrote:Your budget, or rather lack of budget is going to be your biggest hindrance. For 6K an 80's or maybe a early 90's vintage is about what you can expect. And at that age there is going to be problems. Things like the roof may need replacing, tires for sure, fixing wood rot is a definite possibility. Not to mention appliances that no longer function. Unless you can up that number to at least 10K you are more than likely going to be throwing good money after bad chasing problems.Yeah, that's basically what I've been looking at, 80-90s. I've found some fairly decent ones, but none that fit me perfectly. I'm also a lot more concerned about stuff like the engine, transmission, and internal parts in general. Because I don't know much about the internal operation of RVs. And those are the things that can end up putting a person is the hole thousands and thousands of dollars. Would you recommend getting the newest one I can possibly afford?

Bumpyroad wrote:an 83 is acceptable to you but not an 80???????????????bumpyAnd '83 is pushing it for me even. I really don't want anyting older than an '87.

alishlosh wrote: Would you recommend getting the newest one I can possibly afford?Yes. A newer motor home will besides offering newer parts, less chances of catastrophic failures if all else is equal. But at 80K miles and as long as the drive train has been maintained I just don't see major problems there. I see far more potential problems with the house parts. Even a small leak can if left untreated can kill an RV in very short time. Think of it this way.... New refer 1500 dollars, new water heater 700 dollars, New stove or furnace 6-700 dollars.New transmission 3000 dollars, rebuilt motor 4-5000 dollars. New roof 150 dollars a foot. Water leak, thousands. Toad? Have you considered how your going to get to the grocery store weekly?Just as a thought, have you considered a decent tow vehicle and a 10K dollar travel trailer?? A 10K dollar TT will get you a really nice 2005-2007 vintage travel trailer in a length that would be comfortable to tow for you. When parked your tow vehicle then is your every day vehicle to get to the store etc. One drive train to maintain. And best of all, if you had a major failure you would still be able to live in the trailer while the TV is being repaired.

Need advice: buying a used RV | Good Sam Community

WA7NDD
Explorer
May 11, 2014
Read this!
Engle
Explorer
May 11, 2014
Remember what the Dodge and Chrysler automobiles were like in 1980? They were lucky to last the 12 month/12000 mile warranty. Good luck
ChuckV1
Explorer
May 03, 2014
Guzzzzzz

We traded in a 1999 Class C 24ft last summer for a older 2006
5er and got 5k, friend said he saw the unit at a Used RV show
in Gig Harber WA for 6K a week later.... We had just put new
rubber all around, new batteries, new brakes, has serviced it
including the generator, everything worked fine and had the
winter cover with it. Engine had about 65k on it but needed a
exhaust leak fix on the right side, was very clean inside...
maybe we should have sold it outside of a dealer but got a
great deal on 5er it was had to pass up
MattINW
Explorer
May 03, 2014
Congrats on the find! Hope it works out great.
olfarmer
Explorer II
May 03, 2014
alishlosh wrote:
Redsky wrote:
For $60,000 your want list is reasonable. It might even work at $35,000. At $6,000 you are dreaming.

You will be able to find a 20 year old smallish motorhome for that amount but then you will need to have money set aside for repairs and be prepared for breakdowns on the road and staying at motels while parts are obtained.

For $6,000 I would buy a Casita or similar trailer that you can tow with your current car or truck.

Saying that $60k is 'reasonable' and that $35k might work, is like saying "hey sorry most of the world, but you'll never be able to own a motorhome." I've seen SO MANY motorhome that are around the $15k range that would be great. Even the $10k range. I know I'm new to all of this, but dropping $60k on something can't be the only option, because I know that's just not an option for many RV owners.

I'm noticing that many people on these forums, while trying to be helpful, are actually just, in one way or another, telling me I can't do what I want to do. Instead of trying to give me advice on how I can do what I want to do. I realize money is always a thing.. But what I've learned from life is that there are ways around everything, and that money isn't always the answer to the problem. Sorry if I sound like a moron to you or I'm just dreaming.. but hey, I have big dreams. I ended up going with a 1983 Coachmen Leprechaun.. so wish me luck! And thankfully I found super great roadside assistance in case I break down!

Thanks everyone for the advice, encouraging or not. I hope all your travels and lives are pleasant :)

It does not take 60k to get a decent MH. Glad you found one you like and I hope you enjoy it! After about 10 years old it is all about condition and there is a huge difference in how they have been taken care of. Best of luck to you with your MH!
Ed
jolooote
Explorer
May 02, 2014
Do NOT get any Chevy 454 or P30 chassis.
alishlosh
Explorer
Apr 29, 2014
Redsky wrote:
For $60,000 your want list is reasonable. It might even work at $35,000. At $6,000 you are dreaming.

You will be able to find a 20 year old smallish motorhome for that amount but then you will need to have money set aside for repairs and be prepared for breakdowns on the road and staying at motels while parts are obtained.

For $6,000 I would buy a Casita or similar trailer that you can tow with your current car or truck.

Saying that $60k is 'reasonable' and that $35k might work, is like saying "hey sorry most of the world, but you'll never be able to own a motorhome." I've seen SO MANY motorhome that are around the $15k range that would be great. Even the $10k range. I know I'm new to all of this, but dropping $60k on something can't be the only option, because I know that's just not an option for many RV owners.

I'm noticing that many people on these forums, while trying to be helpful, are actually just, in one way or another, telling me I can't do what I want to do. Instead of trying to give me advice on how I can do what I want to do. I realize money is always a thing.. But what I've learned from life is that there are ways around everything, and that money isn't always the answer to the problem. Sorry if I sound like a moron to you or I'm just dreaming.. but hey, I have big dreams. I ended up going with a 1983 Coachmen Leprechaun.. so wish me luck! And thankfully I found super great roadside assistance in case I break down!

Thanks everyone for the advice, encouraging or not. I hope all your travels and lives are pleasant :)
alishlosh
Explorer
Apr 29, 2014
ksg5000 wrote:
My 02.

Roof rack is almost worthless in RV because you can't carry much (if anything) on roof. Roofs are the Achilles Heel of RV's.

Sleeping 6 in a Class C isn't practical .. hippie or not. Been their done that. Further .. weight's a big deal in a Class C and six adults, water etc is likely going to max out the practical capacity of the rig.

Lastly .. check out the price of new shocks and tires .. in old rig your likely going to need both which may blow your budget.

The RV I ended up finding has new tires, and I'm planning on having the shocks looked at by my Uncle in May. And I'm not planning on sleeping 6 in it at all times (or even part of the time), I just want to make sure I have a little extra room for friends who would like to stay with me/visit/etc. I'm not planning on traveling/living with 6 or more people.

Thanks for the advice.
ksg5000
Explorer
Apr 29, 2014
My 02.

Roof rack is almost worthless in RV because you can't carry much (if anything) on roof. Roofs are the Achilles Heel of RV's.

Sleeping 6 in a Class C isn't practical .. hippie or not. Been their done that. Further .. weight's a big deal in a Class C and six adults, water etc is likely going to max out the practical capacity of the rig.

Lastly .. check out the price of new shocks and tires .. in old rig your likely going to need both which may blow your budget.

Edit: Your other postings indicate your looking at towing a vehicle. You should pay close attention to the weight capacity of a Class C .. my 28' foot Class C came out of the factory essentially maxed out and couldn't tow anything without reinforcement .. smaller RV's may have some capacity but if your going to fill the rig with people that will be an issue.
Redsky
Explorer
Apr 28, 2014
For $60,000 your want list is reasonable. It might even work at $35,000. At $6,000 you are dreaming.

You will be able to find a 20 year old smallish motorhome for that amount but then you will need to have money set aside for repairs and be prepared for breakdowns on the road and staying at motels while parts are obtained.

For $6,000 I would buy a Casita or similar trailer that you can tow with your current car or truck.

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