Inspection before purchase, what to look for?

[Don and Kim]

Will be looking at a 06 Freightliner w/ a CAT 3126 for possible purchase. Any tips on what to look for ? Its a National Tropical w/20k miles on it.
Thx, Don

[RickO]

Hi Don... I did a forum search on PDI Checklist and this is one of the better threads I found pre purchase inspection form and help needed

Hope you find something useful in there.

Rick

[MaverickBBD]

Hi Don... Is it a 3126 or a C-7 engine? There are lots of information out there regarding both. A quick search will provide you more then enough information.

[Don and Kim]

Thanks Rick for the link. Also its a C7, not sure why I thought it was a 3126.

[MaverickBBD]

In that case if you are just looking for chassis and engine "what to look fors..." I would strive for as many service records as you can get. Especially M1's,2's &3. That and when was the last time the top end was run. Specially valve adjustments. You may even want to have a service center do a cylinder cut out and check out the fuel injectors. The closer to a forty (40) the better. See if any are way off that. Also the usual leaks and drips. Shine a flash light through the radiator and see if it is clean. If not you may insist on having the CAC and radiator wet steamed clean. Check to see if the slobber tube has been extended and the oil dip stick calibrated. Others may chime in with their suggestions also.

[Dave1956]

Use a really good inspection guide and be preparred to take your time. If you have an RV mechanic to hire that will complete the inspection for you that would be a good thing.

Dont over look a careful inspection of the generator and other systems. On my purchase of an 03 Newmar Kountry Star I missed some generator problems, some battery issues, and a dash air issue. I also failed to pay attention to wheel lubrication. A few of the issues that I missed were covered by my extended warranty, the dealer made good on some small things, but some of the service issues I had to bring up to date and pay for. I think if I had been more aware, I could gotten many of the issues cleared up before purchasing.

I did business with a dealer if you are using an individual than all the more reason to take a long look.

[mccsix]

Go online and check for safety recalls that haven't been recorded against the coach.

[MarineChief]

Great suggestions already here. I'd like to add in to CHECK WEIGHTS !! Especially if you can get individual wheel weights. That way you will KNOW your actual cargo capacity instead of relying on the dealer or the coach "sticker". Many times people have found their new coach to be near capacity on one or the other axle BEFORE they even place their gear into it. This also holds true for side to side imbalances on some coaches. So definitely get a weight measurement before you sign on the dotted line.
Dave