Community Forums

Phildakota · 02-10-2012, 03:00 PM

What should I look for in a used travel trailer

ghoststories · 02-10-2012, 03:06 PM

I am no expert by any means, but, will offer some tips I think are important, and I am sure some of the fellow members who are very knowledgable will offer you some also. To me the main thing is to check the roof for any signs of leaks or damage. And to make sure the holding tanks are not cracked, and to check for wear and tear inside, the couch, carpet etc. These are the things I look over. Good luck to you in your search.

golfpro · 02-10-2012, 03:15 PM

a lot of things you need to look for. If any of them are not in good order, you will have to have them fixed or replaced out of pocket and that cuts into your good deal. Tires, tires need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years, whether they have been used on the road or not. water leaks, both in the plumbing and the roof and around windows. make sure the furnace, the frig, all the lights, brakes, stop lights, turn signal lights, vent fans, bathroom fan and shower all work and function properly. the mattress is in good shape, no mice holes in it, overall condition of the trailer. it's not like buying a loaf of bread or a jar of peanut butter. lot of little things you would never guess to look for. I'm sure others will give you more insight on this subject. good luck finding your dream machine and I hope you and your family enjoy camping. this being your first, you have a lot to learn, you are fortunate as there are several web sites forums that can teach you a lot. Us old guys only had on the job training. Glad you have gone to our pass time. enjoy.

Superslif · 02-10-2012, 03:25 PM

I would say the #1 item to look for is rotted floors from water leaks. Take a look in the back of the storage bins and the back of the cabinets. Use a flashlight to get a good sense of how solid the unit is. Windows on the front of a tt are notorious for water leaks. Get down on your hands a knees...

#2 I would look for delam on the outer side walls if it has a fiberglass skin.

#3 You have to make sure that floorplan works for you and your family *** warning do not buy a tt without your wife's opinion. Does it have enough counter space. Enough storage space. How are the sleeping arrangements. How much does the trailer weigh and what is the hitch weight.

And of course how old are the tires. There will be a date code on the tires....7 -8 years old is about it, but my buddy bought a used trailer that was 2 years old and the tires were shot, cracks in sidewalls.Had to replace all 4 tires....

bsirby · 02-10-2012, 08:33 PM

Welcome Phil. I can't help you but did want to let you know we are glad you joined us. Safe travels.

historyljc · 02-10-2012, 10:19 PM

Hi Phildakota, welcome to the forum. Would you care to tell us more so that better advice could be given. What are you pulling the trailer with, how many people are going to be in the trailer, what part of country are you in, what ammenities are you looking for, how much money do you want to/are willing to spend?

MSHappyCampers · 02-11-2012, 08:25 AM

Hi, and welcome to IRV2! we're sure glad you joined the bunch! Look over in the travel trailer section and you'll find tons of information! Good luck & God bless!

DpDave · 02-11-2012, 08:55 AM

Hi Phil, and welcome. To echo Superslif a bit, besides the technical aspects be sure it "feels" right. Be sure to include anybody who will be travelling with you, and spend a little while just relaxing in the trailer.

The way I did mine, once I was pretty happy with the unit, I shooed the sales guy out, and just chilled for a bit. Try the different chairs and sofas, stretch out on the beds, just see yourself living there. As was said elsewhere on this site, any little niggles there at the dealership will become major issues down the road.

Good luck with your search, I hope you find a unit that makes you as happy as mine does me...