1998 Coleman Redwood - what to look for

[Jeff10236]

A dealer near me has a 1998 Coleman Redwood for $1995.

From the photos it looks to be in pretty good condition. I think the roof may be aluminum and not the trouble-prone ABS (there is a seam down the middle of the roof). In the photos, it has an AC unit, though I don't know if it works.

I am probably going to head over tomorrow to take a look at it. What should I lookout for on the Redwood? Assuming it is in as good shape as it appears from the photos, is $1995 a good price from a dealer? How much can I probably negotiate?

I was planning to wait a year or two to buy and rent over this summer, but if it is as clean as it appears, I may be buying sooner.

[Ryanincc]

Here's some helpful links, but Step 1 is ALWAYS figuring out how much you can ACTUALLY tow. And the real life max towing capacity is much lower than the manufacture stated max towing amount.

How Much Trailer Can You Tow (Part 1)?
http://popupbackpacker.com/how-much-trailer-can-you-tow-part-1/

The 75 Percent Rule of Thumb
http://www.popupexplorer.com/?p=210

_________________________________________________________________________
Buying Used Camper Checklist
http://popuptimes.com/?p=750

How to Buy a Pop-Up Camper or Tent Trailer
http://www.popupportal.com/index.php?topic=31201.0

Purchasing a Used Pop-Up-Camper
http://title-3.com/BuyUsed.htm


Unfortunately, NADAGuides or similar pricing service can't help here. Condition is the ultimate factor in determining price on an old camper like that. It IS at a dealer so the price can definitely come down. Having said that, I would expect to do some work on a camper costing $1500. A good to go camp ready pup I'd expect to pay 3K or higher. That's just my experience in Texas. Your mileage may vary.

[Dakota98]

Pictures can be deceiving, do not approach looking at it based upon a preconceived notion.

Look for dark spots anywhere on the fabric. ( mold ). Which means moisture. It may have been put away wet or it may mean there is a leak.

Ceiling yellowing or discoloration also can be an indicator.

And I can't stress enough, as stated above, look very carefully on the underside for soft spots & on the sides of the unit for any area that may be bulging.

Aside from that, Coleman's are one of the best units you can buy, old or not.

Markets for Pop-up's vary considerably from region to region. Here in Idaho, it is not unheard of getting $500-1000 more than high book, for real good ones. Same can go for areas that they are not as desirable, they will sell for way less. "Know the market in your area".

[Dream_Girl]

If you find ANY water damage RUN AWAY.

1. Look at the roof INSIDE corners when it's partly raised, any signs of water damage?

2. Crawl under the pop-up, is the floor strong or black and soft? (water damage -not repairable).

3. Touch the tent fabric, is it crumbling or still have a lot of life in it?

4. Ask the dealer to demonstrate ALL appliances!

5. Make a list of the stuff that you will probably replace (mattress, pillows, curtains and etc) is it feasible? (cost wise)

6. Inspect the frame, is it straight? people tend to over load their Pop-up...

7. Wheels and brakes condition?

8. Demand the dealer to set up the awning, is it in good shape? *don't ask me how I know...