?RV Mechanic

At this point look at as many truck campers as possible so that you have a general idea what you want and what you are willing to for go.

If you are looking at a truck camper with a slide out have the owner or business pull the slide in... that way you can see if the camper is useable with the slide in... can you get to the bathroom if you need to go in a hurry.... would the slide be in a traffic lane if you have to put it out and you are parked along side a highway.... ???

Once you have an idea as to size and features you want in your truck camper you'll have to choose the truck that can haul it... not one that has to have a lot of modifications to beef it up. When you try to modify a truck to reach a proper capacity there will always be a weak link somewhere.good luck and have fun

Doc, My pal, sleepy, is right! I would be more than happy as others have stated to assist in answering your questions.
Welcome to the TC club, eventually. I am sure you have many thoughts, but you have to start with the truck that will be needed to do the job for the size of TC you are dreaming about. It is a package deal and the capability of the truck needs to be high on your list. Take a look at LOA site too. http://lanceowners.hoop.la/forums

Dr. Feelgood wrote:
I plan on joining the TC crowd at retirement next summer. I've followed this forum closely for a couple of months and learned a TON. After 37 years as an ER Doc, I also know when it's time to call in a specialist.I hope to buy used,so I'd like to find an Rv Mechanic or whomever to inspect possible purchase and to advise/perform upgrades.you got any suggestions on finding such a person? I live in Portland,Or

You stated that you are interested in truck campers. I would suggest that you get advice from someone that has broad experience with truck campers.

Truck campers are usually used a lot different than other RV's.

Most motor home and trailer owners ride and park... they leave home with reservations, drive to a campground and park for the length of their vacation.... the MH folks tend to tow another vehicle to run around in. Their needs and expectations are very different than most truck camper owners.

Many truck camper owners tend to get off the paved roads... go into the back country following roads that others can't. Finding remote fishing, hunting, hiking spots...TC owners normally have very big pick-up trucks and the slide in campers with their jacks are totally unique.

You have a TC owner close by that has some of the most unique experience recently exhibited in this country. PJay9 would be my choice.... (and I live in Tennessee)

Here is a very long and interesting thread:Pjay9 completely rebuilt a 2005 Lance 1161 truck camper along with a shop that is also in your general area. Just click on the highlighted area.

I call PJay9 "Captain PJ" he has been captain of cruise lines heading north from your state to alaska. I have met him several times and followed his repairs and modifications to his current truck camper and the one before it.... he is very knowledgeable and he does very nice work. He has also used his truck campers extensively, criss crossing the country west to east, south to north and the opposite of course.

If you are interested please PM me, I'll furnish you his name and phone number. I promise... he won't try to sell you anything or try to change your mind.

best of luck to you,

Chet

Dr. Feelgood wrote:
I plan on joining the TC crowd at retirement next summer. I've followed this forum closely for a couple of months and learned a TON. After 37 years as an ER Doc, I also know when it's time to call in a specialist.I hope to buy used,so I'd like to find an Rv Mechanic or whomever to inspect possible purchase and to advise/perform upgrades.you got any suggestions on finding such a person? I live in Portland,Or

I was at a Napa auto parts parking lot in hillsboro and saw an RV Tech assisting a guy with a pre purchase inspection... I took a pic of his van with phone number and e-mail. I did a quick web search and found him on yelp with a couple of good reviews, etc...

http://www.acertifiedrvtechnician.com/

I have no association with this person....

jeff

Dr. Feelgood wrote:
donn0128, Thanks, that's a helpful offer.Nothing will happen for at least a few months. I'm new at this so how would I contact you?
Steve White

Send me a pm
BTW cousin is an anasteologist, she semi retired last year

One resource that may be of help-
www.rvservicereviews.com

donn0128, Thanks, that's a helpful offer.Nothing will happen for at least a few months. I'm new at this so how would I contact you?
Steve White

It's like processing patients in the ER after you've done your bit. Send them to the correct specialist. If you get something motorized there's chassis and coach functions. For the chassis, send it to a truck shop. For the coach send it to an RV shop. As far as finding a good one though, it's a **** shoot.

There are lots of mobile RV mechanics out there. Been RVing for over 30 years, and have done most all my own work. I would be willing to spend a day or more with you checking out and training you on the ins and outs of any non motorized RV.