Community Forums

Fairlight · 08-10-2010, 04:57 PM

We are seriously looking at a Vectra 40AD 2004. The dealer is in Florida and we are in Virginia. We are concerned about rust issues. We will have the RV inspected by a certified inspector. Do you love your Winnie. We had a 30' Itasca Sunova and it was a great little gasser, no rust or problems. Spending a lot more for this diesel and want to know if rust has been a problem for you. The dealer says no rust. Says he removed a very small amount of surface rust. We have lots of good pictures. Any other issues would also be appreciated. Thanks

RJay · 08-10-2010, 05:33 PM

Since you asked. If the dealer told you there was no rust and then said he removed a very small amount of surface rust then the coach HAS rust! It will never get better and only get worst. The mystery is how it has affected the electrical system. I'm sure you have pictures and were carefully picked by the dealer as to not show its slightest affect.

All RV's have rust eventually most of it is a result of running on roads that have been treated with salt and its effects are found on the chassis and undercarriage. But a coach kept in the salt air for months at a time, the salt air permeates the coach affecting electronic equipment, electrical circuits and mechanicals. This is the type of coach that is plagued with mysterious electrical problems that continue to haunt. In a word it's a nightmare and in another, expensive. This is not the coach to start you retirement or travels.

RickO · 08-10-2010, 08:17 PM

We love our Ellipse 40FD. We bought the coach in California new and I've noticed small amounts of rust on the undercarraige but I'm sure it's not from salt air or salted roads... just hasn't seen enough of either. I'd sure want to know what kind of surface rust the dealer removed.

resqguy · 08-11-2010, 09:16 PM

I owned an 05 40AD and didn't experience any rust issues in the 3 years I had it. Before we bought ours I remember seeing 04 40ADs for $175K in late 04 early 05. Now 6 years later I see units listed at $150K. A fair price would be $115K on the high side and $95K on the low side.

Before we purchased ours we heard all kinds of stories about problems. One of our main issues was a leak around the bedroom slide. We were able to work through most other issues. I would buy another one if it was priced right.

MaverickBBD · 08-12-2010, 09:28 AM

I have two friends that each own one. One has an occasional leak from the bedroom slide when the wind conditions are just right. It leaks right in the middle of their bed. The other has a water spot from an unknown leak source on their living room ceiling. Other then that they absolutely love their coaches. Both these guys have been chasing their leaks for years. Just be advised.