Possibly may be a new Excel owner

[rubyred]

We used to have a class a but sold it last year. We have been thinking about a 5th wheel that we can keep in a campground for the summer in New England so we can escape the summer heat in Florida. I don’t plan on buying a tow vehicle because I have a storage company that will pickup and deliver the unit when we go north.

That being said, we have a opportunity to purchase a 2012 Excel 33gke that visually looks to be in good shape. (Photos). Not being well versed in 5th wheels I have a few questions.

1 is it much of a concern that the company is out of business? Needing parts etc..

2 Is there a source for operating manuals?

3 it only has 1 rooftop air conditioner. Will 1 unit handle cooling needs. Thinking insulation must have to be good. Can a 2nd rooftop be added easy?

4 any areas on this model that I need to pay particular attention to.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated

Joe

[JDT]

1. No. It's out of warranty anyway and most stuff that breaks is usually aftermarket products. Also, there is a repair center that opened in the old plant at Smith Center, Ks and I understand they have some parts.

2. It seems someone posted something on line but not sure. The manuals are rather generic and most questions can be answered on this forum even though the activity has slowed after Excel shut down in 2015.

3. I would want 2 a/c's but I live in Oklahotma. One may be fine in your area. Most of the time unless it is really hot we only run one a/c but 2 are nice when it's boiling outside. Excel's are well insulated and we have no problem keeping ours cool even in the hottest weather. I would think another could be added.

4. Check for any leaks especially if it has been stored outside. I think from the model number it is probably a Limited with the fiberglass roof so probably no issues there but do check around the slides. Some had issues but mine never has.

Excel was considered one of the top models in their heyday so a good used one is desirable especially when considered against some of the cheaply made units that are common today. The fully boxed frame Excel made is a rarity now. Other than some component replacements we have only needed a slideout adjustment in 8 seasons of use. We have not had any structural issues. Good luck.