How much rust underneath is acceptable?

anderjer · 10-26-2009, 08:30 PM

A WH with 8.1 engine in a 2004 Class A Pace Arrow that I am close to buying seems to have quite a bit of surface rust on shocks, transmission case, frame, exhaust and tranny lines. Everything topside and in engine compartment looks clean with only 25k miles. Seemingly lots of rust underneath compared to other coaches on the lot. It is a Florida coach and has been stored outside. Is this a frightening issue if truly surface rust? Thank you in advance.

jdsr · 10-26-2009, 08:41 PM

I own a 2004 and I hav'nt noticed nowhere near that kind of rust on mine. I live about 50 miles from ocean so I dont believe that has effected me either.

**Hitchhiker** · 10-27-2009, 05:26 AM

I'd pass on it if it were me, there's plenty of other nice rigs on the market that you shouldn't need to buy a rusty one.

It was probably driven on salty roads and not rinsed off properly. In time the brakes, suspension, frame, etc will be compromised by the rust and it'll be on your nickel.

Bob (WA0MQE) · 10-27-2009, 06:01 AM

Chances are this was one of those chassis' that sit outside for a long time while waiting at the motorhome manufacture's factory to be built. I've visited a few factories and it amazed me. In a few cases there were dozens of new chassis' setting out in the fields with weeds growing almost as high as the tires. All you could see were the tops of the tires and the steering column, etc. sticking up. The tall weeds of course met there had been a lot of rain so it's no wander some of them will have a lot of rust.

I posted something similar to this a few years ago and made the recommendation when you are looking at any motorhome, especially a brand new one, be sure and get down to check up underneath.

dieselclacker · 10-27-2009, 06:44 AM

I would pass also on that one. Its a buyers market out there, lots of nice coaches available without the rust. As Hitchhiker says, could be lots of problems down the road, and on your nickel.

Dieselclacker