Community Forums

Larry Day · 11-04-2016, 07:15 PM

I'm getting ready to retire, will be down sizing and plan to buy a used Class A and do some travel. I'm looking to spend less than $100K, and would like some input on any makes/models to avoid. I've had RVs in the past, but it's been over 20 years since I had one. Any help is appreciated!

Gordon Dewald · 11-04-2016, 07:26 PM

Avoid anything that does not have service/maintenance records or looks like crap. If the price is right even those could look good.

I suggest identifying the floor plan you like and then try to find a coach in good condition with the right price point.

2 Stroker · 11-04-2016, 07:39 PM

Gordon is right, service records a must. You don't say if you want gas or diesel so diesel will be a better full time rig, I think. Then if you go with a coach with a side radiator most of them are upper end coaches. I would never go with a rear radiator because of the time it takes if you need to work on one, time is money.
You could look in the classifieds here and see if something looks good.
Good luck to you.
2 stroker

twogypsies · 11-04-2016, 08:14 PM

For a Class A you can get some high quality manufacturers if buying used. Some excellent ones are Newmar (we're prejudiced), Country Coach, Monaco, Alpine, Travel Supreme.

Winnebago has had roof issues as have Tiffins, along with wet bay issues. Check these out thoroughly.

In any RV look for any water marks. Leaks are very difficult to trace and I'd avoid a RV completely if it shows up. Also check for delamination on the sidewalls. Go up on the roof and check its condition. Motorhome tires should be replaced every 5-7 years so check the dates on the tires. (Google if you don't know how to do this) If it needs new tires this could be a negotiating plus.

Good luck.... you have some work cut out for you but it will be worth it!!

Whatever used ones you buy a big plus would be able to have the maintenance records. Also, get an independent inspection done.

luvlabs · 11-05-2016, 08:26 AM

What's good or bad depends on the age of the coach and the amount of money you have available. In that $100k range you can buy lots of 2-5 year old gassers. I would suggest you look at Tiffin, Newmar, and Winnebago.

If you want a diesel push, coaches in your price range will be much older. Lots of manufacturers went out of business during the early to mid 2000s and there are good and bad years for the remaining manufacturers. If you have found a specific coach, then ask your question, otherwise I would focus on the companies still in business.

vito.a · 11-05-2016, 10:01 AM

I always recommend looking at a used Windsor, Dynasty, Executive, or like someone else said, some of the Travel Supreme models. There are others out there, but these are tried and true.
Be careful on pricing as some of the dealers are still in the old fashioned "Used Car" style of sales and prices are all over the map.
Look across the entire US. An airline ticket can save you $10-25k.
You will learn something from every coach you look at.
Don't get into a hurry. Allow plenty of time (maybe a year or so).
Study the original sales brochures until you are an expert on the models you like.
Make a list of "must haves" and "nice to haves".
Make sure you get your spouse involved.

Avoid any diesel with a rear radiator and any coach with one of the light duty transmissions.

Best of luck!