by Len Legros
My name is Len Legros, I have been repairing, servicing and selling RV's for over 25 years. The following is a general overview of what you should be looking for when doing your used RV search. These tips are common in nature, covering class A, B, and C motorhomes, trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers and fold-down campers.
You arrive at the prospective seller's driveway to view the "pristine condition" advertised RV you have always wanted. They invite you to come over and get a closer look at there rig. Some of the windows seem to have an abundance of silicone or sealant around the edges (water leaks) and the corner mouldings also have extra sealant along the edges (more water leaks). Well it's time to get up on a ladder and look at the roof where you find the roof sealant around the vents and seams cracking and flaking (water leaks). You say to yourself, PRISTINE HUH!
As you step inside the door, the floor feels like a sponge (more leaks). Over in the corner behind the locker bunk, the ceiling is stained and drooping a bit (leaks, leaks, leaks). On inspection of the location of the fresh water tank in the corner, it appears that the wood paneling on the wall is delaminating and "soft" -- maybe more leaks?
OKAY!!! You are catching on and don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure out that this one belongs in the graveyard. The quickest demise of any RV is caused by water penetration.
All motorized RVs should be mechanically checked over by YOUR mechanic, and all RVs should have a complete systems, appliance, and running gear check-out by a REPUTABLE RV dealer BEFORE you lay your hard earned cash on the table.
A complete systems check includes the propane system for leaks. All interior lights, 12 volt outlets, 110 volt and G.F.I. outlets, converter, battery charger, inverter, fans are functioning. The water lines, taps, traps, fresh water tank, water pump, grey and black water tank and slide valves are all filled and tested for leaks. Window seals and mechanisms, roof vents drawers, cupboard latches all checked for operation. Exterior running, signal and back-up lights all working. Lifter system check of a fold-down camper if applicable. Don't forget the T.V. antenna and booster!
Running gear check will include the inspection and function of the brake shoes, magnets, drums, wheel bearings, axles, springs, shackles and bolts, tires, break-away switch and any stabilizing jacks installed on the unit.
Appliance check-out includes the refridgerator, stove, oven, furnace, microwave, hot water tank, air-conditioner and generator. Appliances should be operated on all fuels they were intended to work on. The fridge requires a 3 hour wait to insure that it is cooling properly.
Inspection of the underbelly and roof should be included in the check-out.
Service records and or receipts surrendered by the previous owner(s) might help to assist you with some of the past history of the coach. If it's a motorhome make sure you take it out on a good long test drive, up those hills, out on the Interstate (if available), and hopefully on a windy day to feel how it handles under these conditions.
It's up to you to spend a little now so you won't have to spend a whole lot down the road -- so make sure that the above is performed diligently and you won't get burned! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me through my RVers OnlineAdvisors listing.
As always, GOOD LUCK!