2000 EXCEL Limited 31RLE - Potential Buyer

[Steve Rankin]

Hi folks,

We are thinking about buying a 2000 EXCEL Limited 31RLE. The coach has some semi-known issues that we are trying to find out more about; especially getting a handle on what the repairs might entail.

The saleslady at the dealer has promised better photos soon, but this is what we have so far.



Note what appears to be a crack at the front lower corner of the bedroom slide opening. Also maybe something going on to the left of the generator.



Again, there appears to be a problem on the right side of the generator.

Comments? Suggestions?

Since Excel has closed their doors, does anyone have a suggestion where we could have potential structural repairs done?

We are in the Pacific Northwest, so we're trying to do our due diligence before pulling the trigger on what otherwise appears to a be lovely coach. I'm hoping to get more/better photos on Monday but itching to hear what others think.

Thanks,
Steve

[Live 2 Camp]

Hello Steve.

You certainly picked a good coach to consider. The Limited should get you the fiberglass roof, which is why we purchased ours. What has me concerned is the crack in the sidewall and I would probably avoid this one but if you want a more professional opinion, I suggest you call the Excel Service Center in Smith Kansas. It was started by former employees of Excel when they closed their doors. Ralph is the recommended guru by many but anyone who answers can help you.


Excel Service Center
617 E, Hwy 36
Smith Center, KS 66967
service@excelservicecenter.com
Phone: 785-686-3080

[Steve Rankin]

An Excel 28-footer was on our short list about 10 years ago when we were looking for a rugged trailer for RV trekking in the Arctic. Discovered there's a whole lot to like about Excel then, but wound up going with an Arctic Fox instead.

My original "plan" was to take it to the factory and have them rebuild the front section IF we decided to go through with the deal. Then we discovered that Excel quit in early 2015. Major bummer. At least there's still a good source of service knowledge available to go to. We had a similar orphan situation with our 1995 Beaver Patriot.

No doubt that passing on this example would be the smarter thing to do, but I'm still going to follow through with the dealer to get better photos & info, then reach out to the Excel Service Center for their input.

Restraint may be difficult, though, since this model seems to be a perfect fit for both our needs and our wants.

Steve

Originally Posted by Live 2 Camp

Hello Steve.

You certainly picked a good coach to consider. The Limited should get you the fiberglass roof, which is why we purchased ours. What has me concerned is the crack in the sidewall and I would probably avoid this one but if you want a more professional opinion, I suggest you call the Excel Service Center in Smith Kansas. It was started by former employees of Excel when they closed their doors. Ralph is the recommended guru by many but anyone who answers can help you.


Excel Service Center
617 E, Hwy 36
Smith Center, KS 66967
service@excelservicecenter.com
Phone: 785-686-3080

[copilot]

Looks like water issues and judging from your comments could be extensive. Which would make me wonder about other areas. Might check rv sales moriarity New Mexico. They still sell excels and was the number one dealer for many many years.

[Steve Rankin]

Originally Posted by copilot

Looks like water issues and judging from your comments could be extensive. Which would make me wonder about other areas. Might check rv sales moriarity New Mexico. They still sell excels and was the number one dealer for many many years.

You are correct. The dealer said the roof leaks - not leadED, but leakS - and there is water damage. No comments on what damage, etc. Tried steer me towards a Fleetwood. Gawd, I hate it when a salesman tries to foist something that's oh-so different.

We'd noticed that Moriarity seemed to have cornered the market on Excels. Good to know.

[copilot]

We have bought two from rv sales and never been sorry. They sell artic fox and another brand also. Service after sale is good and you are considered family.