2003 Dutch Star 4006

oldflatfoot · 02-18-2010, 02:08 PM

I am in the process of looking to purchase a used 2003 Dutchstar. Milege 33000. 350 cummings-spartan chassis-3 slides. Original tires. Should I be concerned on the age of the tires and is anyone familiure with this model. Price is right. Not exactly the floor plan I wanted but for the price it will do.

Jim Stewart · 02-18-2010, 03:57 PM

Tires will probably need replacing ($2,500-$3,500). The model is not as important as the manufacturer, Newmar is know for overall quality. The Cummins/Spartan combination is well know and has a good track record. Get the Vin# and check with Newmar, Cummins and Spartan for any recalls and if they have all been performed. Check the NADA guide for low average price, take 20-25%% off that price, that is what would be considered a good price in the current market.

GaryKD · 02-18-2010, 04:31 PM

Hi oldflatfoot,
Welcome to iRV2. Consider having a certified automotive tech check out the automotive part of the coach. Then have a certified coach tech check out the coach part.

Max Hubrich · 02-18-2010, 05:48 PM

If you like HD TV, count on throwing out the old TV's, and the old dome satellite antenna. About $3000 to update all that stuff (that's if you do the cabinet work yourself).

oldflatfoot · 02-19-2010, 08:02 AM

Thanks for the input. HD not important. Tires more of a concern. Seller asking 68k. 10 to 25% below low nada sounds about right. Seller in Florida, me in Mass. Have to plan a trip to view. Also taking in for inspection is a good idea. Don't know where to go as I'm not familiure with area. I have a son who has been in the auto body business for years and was planning on having him go with me to inspect.

a k · 02-19-2010, 09:46 AM

With low mileage and being in Florida, make sure you check for corrosion.

GaryKD · 02-19-2010, 11:03 AM

Hi oldflatfoot,
Where in Florida is the coach. Many iRV2 members live in Florida (including me). There are certified shops in Florida for the coach and the automotive part.

tmitchell · 02-21-2010, 06:53 PM

There is a good chance that your tires are 8 years old. They start to build 2003 models early in the summer of 2002. I would change the tires. The tires will have a build date code. Look for DOT on the sidewall and there should be 4 numbers by it, for example (1502) this would mean the tires were made the 15th week of 2002.

Tom