Older RV Van

In 2000 we got a 1973 Class B Superior Coach on a Chevy body. It was $ 1800 on e-bay. The plumbing was shot (disclosed in the ad) plus needed some tires and TLC. Over the years we have replaced or repaired most of the camper, including an engine and transmission transplant in 2012. I am able to do all the work myself. Now some 60,000 miles later, we have visited all the lower 48 states, have a newer power train including fuel injection and overdrive transmission, and a comfortable camper for us. I never have calculated the total spent, but is much less than the cost of a new class B, and it is paid for. I will continue to update the camper, a new kitchen cabinet is the next big project, but first we are going to Alaska and Canada this summer for 3 to 4 months.
My main point is that if you can avoid high labor cost, an older camper can be a good deal. Works for us, Happy Camping!

Don't forget to check for rust issues. I once looked at a "B" for a very reasonable price, checked the underside, and the rust damage was severe to the point where I wondered how things didn't shear off. All bolts were covered with rust, and the paint had bubbles in it on the bottom of the van.

Found out that the van was stored for most of its life near the beach, then hauled to Texas to be sold. Since most Texans don't factor in rust issues unless they are from Houston, I'm sure someone else has already bought it.

My opinion...+a nickle gets you almost nothing ;-).

We tend to keep vehicles for an extend time and find that they are quite reliable. Just have to keep up with basic maintenance. Changing fluids, and replacing those things that wear like shocks, belts, wipers, etc.

I try to keep things on a schedule so I am not putting out a lot of money all at once. Some I can do myself, some I need to take to the dealer.

If you find a Class B, in good shape, you can outline maintenance items needed. Create a schedule...most important stuff first and spread it out. Should be considerably less than payments on a new unit and the depreciation cost is less. Plus even new units require maintenance.

Some of the older class B units had some handling issues so you would want to test drive and find one that is enjoyable to drive.

Tux wrote:
I wonder in a worst case situation how much I might be looking at spending to get an old van RV up and running good.

Probably about as much as buying a new one, but a little at a time, so it doesn't hurt so much. :)

I wonder in a worst case situation how much I might be looking at spending to get an old van RV up and running good.

Tux,

Even at the 10+yo range, be aware that rubber parts are aging out. Not just tires (I hope everybody knows about them), but belts, coolant hoses, rubber brake lines and the brake fluid itself are about done. (Says the guy that drive 15~20yo vehicles.) Flush the brake the brake system for sure, but be aware that other thing will come up to bite you.

Other than that, Hey! it's new. (Relatively speaking - says the guy with a 40+yo coach that did 3000+ mile this spring.)

Matt

Hi,

All the plastic parts may be friable and fragile.