Community Forums

doopbreathno · 05-30-2016, 09:50 AM

I am looking at purchasing a 2001 coachman 30 foot has 15,000 miles, appears to be in good condition, what should I look out for? outside needs good detail, inside is good, have not done test drive or checking systems.

Sagamore · 05-30-2016, 10:37 AM

Where has it been sitting? Where is it from? Snow country?, Coast? Both where there is salt. What the frame looks like? Any delamination? How is the roof? Does it need serviced? Once you take it for a ride and find out that everything is in working order, consider hose replacements, brake flush, oil change, etc. Check seals and any interior water damage. Does fridge work?, furnace?, air, generator?

Waiter21 · 05-30-2016, 04:59 PM

What model?

Hordok · 05-30-2016, 06:32 PM

Documentation will help you a lot. Did the owner document service and repairs? Is there detail of what, when, why and how much?

Waiter21 · 05-31-2016, 08:03 AM

Remember, your buying a 15 year old house and a 15 year old truck.

Although the miles are low, there are many items that may need to be looked at, simply because of their age. To be honest, low mileage on a 15 year old vehicle can be viewed as a negative.

I bought mine 3 years ago, and still find things with the 15 year old that need addressing. I have documented the majority of work on my Mirada, here are a couple things that you may want to look at in particular.

Water damage could be your biggest enemy on older coaches.

Send me a PM if I can be of more assistance.

Side wall separation:

Additional repair to drivers side wall | 2001 Coachmen Mirada 300QB

Exterior Delamination

Repairing Delamination and water damage | 2001 Coachmen Mirada 300QB

Interior water damage

Repair interior wall de-lamination damage | 2001 Coachmen Mirada 300QB

..

doopbreathno · 06-06-2016, 12:19 PM

Thank you for the information

plasma800 · 06-06-2016, 12:23 PM

push on all the walls........ just run your finger over the walls pushing inward here and there... you're looking for any mushiness at all.

It all should be very solid, but if you find a mushy spot, inspect all around that area.

A mushy wall is an indicator of water penetration. If it's recent, you can tell. If it's old and dry, it will just be brittle under there.

it's not a deal killer just because it exists, but it absolutely COULD be a deal killer is the damage is extensive.