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08-22-2010, 02:53 PM
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#1
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 7
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Questions....lots of questions.....
OK bear with me on this I am a total noob at this. I am kicking around purchasing a used Class C RV. It will serve dual purpose for my family and I. One, obviously, use at the track
if I get something that the whole family will enjoy they will be willing to come to the track with me. That alone is huge cause I tend to work long hours and am not home as much I should be. When it comes to track time my wife is REALLY not all that happy with me. The second use is my work. I cover a large territory and unfortunately for me the majority of my business and the majority of my time is spent about 2 hours from where I live. My boss called me in to his office this week to have heart to heart about my traveling and the lack of time at home. I mentioned to him I would like to purchase an RV and parking out behind our office. My thought was I could work a real long day stay in the RV and then work a short day the next day so I could then get home early and have more time with my family. He liked the idea and gave me the OK. Now if only I could get him to throw in a few $.
I have done a little bit of research on the web and have visited 2 local RV dealerships. Slowly getting some of my questions answered but not 100% sure I am asking all the right questions. I have noticed over the past couple of years more and more RVs, toy haulers, Fun Movers etc showing up at the track and was hoping to get some info from you guys and gals. As much info I could get the better. My biggest concern at this point is getting into a money pit. The last thing I want to do is buy it and 5 months down the road discover its got a massive leak in the roof or something major like engine, tranny, etc.
I went to our local dealer yesterday morning and drove a 2003 Coachman Pathfinder. Its sitting on a E-450 chassis as do most of all the others I have looked at. 43K. I took it for a drive. RV drove fine and for that matter is in decent condition. You can tell it sat out most of its life. The dealer is asking 29K.
I went to another dealer and took a look at a 2004 Fun Mover. I think that would be good for me at the track but I have a family that wants to get some use out of it as well. The Fun Mover was nice. 50K miles and I think that too was around 29K.
Lastly I took a long look at a 2006 Sunseeker with 9K miles. 2 slide outs entertainment center above drivers head, leveling jacks, on and on. Dealer told me I should make a move on it cause it wouldnt be there long. Well for once they didnt lie. I went back 4 hours later to show my wife and kids and it was sold. Dang!
I am told the used market for Class C's is hot. I didnt believe it but after what I saw yesterday I may be wrong for once!!!
So here I am still a bit clueless with a million questions
Still do not know who makes a good model or a crappy model.
Is there a manufacture to stay away from?
What are market values for used Class C's in todays market?
Where to shop and not shop?
How do I protect myself down the road?
What kind of gas mileage are you getting?
I have heard the V-10 will spit spark plugs from time to time you ever have any issues with that?
Do I get an extended warranty or not waste my money?
What thoughts do I need to keep in the back of my head when I am talking with a salesperson?
What does it cost to dump the water and poop tanks? Where do you do it?
Any websites you can suggest to obtain more info?
Are these things built to last if taken care of?
Do I need to reseal the roof every year?
What maintenance do I have to do throughout the year?
Do you leave yours out all year or is it covered?
What headaches have you had with your RV or camper trailer?
I want to pull my 6x14 enclosed trailer any issues with doing that?
Have you ever rented your RV/trailer out to make a little money off of it?
Is an RV something easy to own or are you constantly working on it?
Thanks for your time!
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08-22-2010, 05:51 PM
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#2
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Member
Join Date: Jan 2008
Posts: 74
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[QUOTE=C Johnson;689321]
So here I am still a bit clueless with a million questions
Still do not know who makes a good model or a crappy model.
We are happy with our Jayco Seneca. It can be worked on at any chevy dealer which is nice.
Is there a manufacture to stay away from?
What are market values for used Class C's in todays market?
Where to shop and not shop?
We bought from Colraine Rv in Ohio. Good people and great price. pretty much a no haggle pricing over the phone for us. Never delt with them before but, would work with them again.
How do I protect myself down the road?
We did get an extended warranty-not knowing. Glad we did for the piece of mind in case we would ever need it.
What kind of gas mileage are you getting?
I drove and got 10.7 mpg. driving about 62 mph. when dh drives (most of the time) we get about 8.5/9.5 and 90% of that time is pulling a trailer with 2 golf carts on it.
I have heard the V-10 will spit spark plugs from time to time you ever have any issues with that?
Do I get an extended warranty or not waste my money? stated above
What thoughts do I need to keep in the back of my head when I am talking with a salesperson? Do your homework. Salesman don't know a whole lot other than selling and writing contracts.
What does it cost to dump the water and poop tanks? Where do you do it? Campgrounds will have dump stations. Otherwise, there are quite a few rest areas that have them and I believe Flying J truck stops/maybe even the Loves and Pilots have them. I can't remember for sure.
Any websites you can suggest to obtain more info? The next exit is a great book to have for what is at the next exit.
Are these things built to last if taken care of? Ours is an 07, 35,000 miles and looks and runs great so far...
Do I need to reseal the roof every year?
What maintenance do I have to do throughout the year?
Do you leave yours out all year or is it covered? We keep ours in the garage. Sun, wind, storm damage is too easy to come by.
What headaches have you had with your RV or camper trailer?
I want to pull my 6x14 enclosed trailer any issues with doing that? We tow a 16' trailer w/2 golf carts and don't know it is back there. We have a camera to keep an eye on things and whenever i go to use the bathroom i always take a peak out to make sure things are hunky dorey. Just remember: more axles (& tires) more $ at the tolls.
Have you ever rented your RV/trailer out to make a little money off of it?
Never have and it is a costly investment to let someone use and abuse. I always think about lease vehicles. It isn't that persons and they just don't care like they would if they owned it.
Is an RV something easy to own or are you constantly working on it?
You have to keep it in good condition. cleaning the inside and out, winterizing it, etc. Think about your car and if you were to store it in the winter. Just that this is more like a house. You do have the upkeep. Mechanically, we have been lucky and only have done the basic car stuff to the mh.
Thanks for your time ! [/QUOTE]
I hope I helped you a little. Hopefully, someone else can chime in too.
__________________
jeff & cheryl
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08-23-2010, 02:57 AM
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#3
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 2
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Hi!
I;m new too. Bought a used Fleetwood Tioga, 1993. Checked everything out so I thought. First weekend trip it poured in the cabover. Previous owner said there was a small leak but they fixed it. Roof looked ok, but it isn't. Started digging in the front and now I have to replace the entire cabover. Wood is rotten, its a wonder it didn't fall off while we were driving.
There was no sign of leaks on the inside cosmetically, so I didn't see the problem until I noticed the wet spot near the mattress while putting up the curtain. Then I removed the mattress and found a puddle of water-then mold then wood rot etc.
My point is that roofs leak. This roof leaked at the seams along the top and the clearance lights on top were a waterfall. Therefore all of the water went into the lower front of the cab.
My point. Check your roof inside and outside very carfefully before purchase. The motorhome I purchased was all opened up, windows, doors etc. Had it been closed I would have noticed the musty mold smell. The people that sold it Knew what they were doing. And I of course did not.
I am now learning the construction of a Motor Home.
I will fix it, it will be better than new when I am done.
Water is deadly to a Motor Home, as soon as you purchase yours I would definately check and reseal the entire roof, and don't forget to check the lights!
Good Luck!
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08-25-2010, 05:35 AM
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#4
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 7
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Thanks for the reply's. Starting to wonder if this is as good of and idea as oringinally thought. Maybe I am only hearing about the bad stuff right now. For now I will continue my research!
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08-25-2010, 08:49 AM
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#5
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Senior Member
Freightliner Owners Club
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Florida Keys
Posts: 2,687
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I owned a Class C for 5 years before moving up to Class A's so let's dwell on the good:
1. Make your wife happy by bringing her to the track - can't put a price tag on that.
2. Spending more time with your family - same infinite value
Yes, you will have pesky things go wrong and have to maintain what amounts to another house combined with another car but your purchase solves two critical issues in your life.
As Deb said above, the critical issue with used rigs is water. The individual components like heaters and engines can be fixed. But when water seeps in to a roof and down the side walls over time, you could be in for some pretty big repair jobs.
Good luck!
__________________
Tom and Katharine
'07 Winnebago Tour 40TD, 400hp Cummins
'17 Winnebago View 24V, '02 R-Vision B+
RVing for 20 years & 200,000+ miles
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09-12-2010, 04:15 PM
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#6
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Southeast Missouri
Posts: 8
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Chef Deb we have a cabover too, bought it and discovered there was leak at the front of the cabover next to the window. The mattress covered the damage done to the interior wood. Someone has caulked sealant around the window and the leak seems to be minor. Also when it rained this week noticed a small leak at the vent over the bed. What is your advice or how to tell if I'm correct in that the leak?
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09-13-2010, 07:28 AM
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#7
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 2
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mk-lady-
Sorry to hear about your problems. Make sure the leak is not from your window! The previous owners of my coach thought the same thing and applied tons of caulk- the leaks were around the edge of the top and the clearance lights. Just because the water is showing up in one spot doesn't mean it is not coming from another place.
Go on the roof and remove your vent. Seal the area with Eternabond tape and replace with a new vent. Eternabond is great stuff! Check for rusty screws. Wherever the screws are rusted means water is getting in!- I checked and replaced all the screws around my coach. If the screws were rusted I knew there was water getting in somehow.
It sounds like a lot of work but preventive maintenance is better than having to replace the whole cab like I did. You can see all the work I had to do on my facebook page.
If you email me I will send you the link-dpirooz@woh.rr.com.
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09-14-2010, 08:06 AM
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#8
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Moderator Emeritus
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: West Palm Beach, FL. USA
Posts: 27,519
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Still do not know who makes a good model or a crappy model.
The original selling price is a fair indicator of base quality. RVs are very price competitive, so those in the same price class tend to be similar in quality and amenities. More expensive brands can spend a bit more on materials, electrical and plumbing systems, etc.
Is there a manufacture to stay away from?
Not really.
What are market values for used Class C's in todays market?
See New Car Prices, Used Car Values, New Car Reviews & Car Buying Guides - NADAguides.com Official Site and look at web sites like rvt.com and rvclassified.com
Where to shop and not shop?
How do I protect myself down the road?
If you aren't a do-it-yourself guy (or maybe don't have the time), an extended warranty (service plan) can take care of repairs for you. Can be pricey, though. See the numerous threads on this subject.
What kind of gas mileage are you getting?
9-11 mpg is the usual range, depending on how heavy your foot is and turnpike cruising vs town traffic.
I have heard the V-10 will spit spark plugs from time to time you ever have any issues with that?
The original V10's did that occasionally. Problem has long since been fixed, and any V10 that was going to spit a plug has already done so.
Do I get an extended warranty or not waste my money?
See above.
What thoughts do I need to keep in the back of my head when I am talking with a salesperson?
He/she is trying to sell you an expensive item and will say whatever he thinks you want to hear. It is very unlikely he/she is an expert in RVs and is quite likely to give you incorrect info.
What does it cost to dump the water and poop tanks? Where do you do it?
If in a campground, use of the dump is included in the campsite fee. If you go to a place just to dump, prices range from $5-$20. There are also free places in some areas. Here is a web site that lists many place to dump.
RV Dump Stations - Home
Any websites you can suggest to obtain more info?
Are these things built to last if taken care of?
They will last with adequate care, but they are not designed to be easily maintainable.
Do I need to reseal the roof every year?
Re-seal? No, but it needs to be inspected regularly and any loose or cracked caulking renewed.
What maintenance do I have to do throughout the year?
Usual vehicle maintenance. Roof and window inspections for potential leaks. Sanitize water system once or twice a year.
Do you leave yours out all year or is it covered?
Ours is outside year around (Florida)
What headaches have you had with your RV or camper trailer?
I want to pull my 6x14 enclosed trailer any issues with doing that?
Yes - the towing capacity of the coach you buy. The typical gas engine Class C cannot tow more than about 3500 lbs. A few may be 5000 lbs. You may need a Class A diesel if the trailer is heavy, e.g. a car hauler.
Have you ever rented your RV/trailer out to make a little money off of it?
I wouldn't do that - far too risky in my opinion.
Is an RV something easy to own or are you constantly working on it?
Like a house, it takes a fair amount of routine care. You have sinks, toilets, cabinets, upholstery, lighting, etc., all of which can need some TLC now and again. And remember, you are rattling this thing as you drive it down the road, so stuff is subject to more stress than the typical house.
__________________
Gary Brinck
Former owner of 2004 American Tradition and several other RVs
Home is West Palm Beach, FL
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09-14-2010, 08:31 PM
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#9
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Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Kingston, Wa. USA
Posts: 1,221
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mk-lady
Chef Deb we have a cabover too, bought it and discovered there was leak at the front of the cabover next to the window. The mattress covered the damage done to the interior wood. Someone has caulked sealant around the window and the leak seems to be minor. Also when it rained this week noticed a small leak at the vent over the bed. What is your advice or how to tell if I'm correct in that the leak?
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If you want to find all the leaks, find an RV repair that can pressurize it. They can find any leak and it may be a long ways from where you see it.
__________________
Cliff
'01 3500 Ram QC HO 6sp. BD Exhaust Brake
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09-21-2010, 07:14 PM
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#10
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Gary RVRoamer
Still do not know who makes a good model or a crappy model.
The original selling price is a fair indicator of base quality. RVs are very price competitive, so those in the same price class tend to be similar in quality and amenities. More expensive brands can spend a bit more on materials, electrical and plumbing systems, etc.
Is there a manufacture to stay away from?
Not really.
What are market values for used Class C's in todays market?
See New Car Prices, Used Car Values, New Car Reviews & Car Buying Guides - NADAguides.com Official Site and look at web sites like rvt.com and rvclassified.com
Where to shop and not shop?
How do I protect myself down the road?
If you aren't a do-it-yourself guy (or maybe don't have the time), an extended warranty (service plan) can take care of repairs for you. Can be pricey, though. See the numerous threads on this subject.
What kind of gas mileage are you getting?
9-11 mpg is the usual range, depending on how heavy your foot is and turnpike cruising vs town traffic.
I have heard the V-10 will spit spark plugs from time to time you ever have any issues with that?
The original V10's did that occasionally. Problem has long since been fixed, and any V10 that was going to spit a plug has already done so.
Do I get an extended warranty or not waste my money?
See above.
What thoughts do I need to keep in the back of my head when I am talking with a salesperson?
He/she is trying to sell you an expensive item and will say whatever he thinks you want to hear. It is very unlikely he/she is an expert in RVs and is quite likely to give you incorrect info.
What does it cost to dump the water and poop tanks? Where do you do it?
If in a campground, use of the dump is included in the campsite fee. If you go to a place just to dump, prices range from $5-$20. There are also free places in some areas. Here is a web site that lists many place to dump.
RV Dump Stations - Home
Any websites you can suggest to obtain more info?
Are these things built to last if taken care of?
They will last with adequate care, but they are not designed to be easily maintainable.
Do I need to reseal the roof every year?
Re-seal? No, but it needs to be inspected regularly and any loose or cracked caulking renewed.
What maintenance do I have to do throughout the year?
Usual vehicle maintenance. Roof and window inspections for potential leaks. Sanitize water system once or twice a year.
Do you leave yours out all year or is it covered?
Ours is outside year around (Florida)
What headaches have you had with your RV or camper trailer?
I want to pull my 6x14 enclosed trailer any issues with doing that?
Yes - the towing capacity of the coach you buy. The typical gas engine Class C cannot tow more than about 3500 lbs. A few may be 5000 lbs. You may need a Class A diesel if the trailer is heavy, e.g. a car hauler.
Have you ever rented your RV/trailer out to make a little money off of it?
I wouldn't do that - far too risky in my opinion.
Is an RV something easy to own or are you constantly working on it?
Like a house, it takes a fair amount of routine care. You have sinks, toilets, cabinets, upholstery, lighting, etc., all of which can need some TLC now and again. And remember, you are rattling this thing as you drive it down the road, so stuff is subject to more stress than the typical house.
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Excellent info! Thank you so much.
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09-21-2010, 07:36 PM
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#11
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 7
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I recently found a RV that I liked. Its a Gulf Stream Ultra Super C. Is there anyone out there that could point me in the direction for info on this unit.....good bad or indifferent. Thanks.
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09-21-2010, 07:59 PM
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#12
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Moderator Emeritus
Nor'easters Club Workhorse Chassis Owner iRV2 No Limits Club
Join Date: Oct 2004
Posts: 30,785
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Here is a thread that might interest you.
Gulf Stream Ultra Super C
What ever you buy you will need one of these.
Good luck in your quest your dream coach is out there some wheres.
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09-30-2010, 08:47 AM
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#13
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Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Crystal City, Mo.
Posts: 442
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I have always bought a used rig, one thing an old guy told which I found out to be true. When looking at used rigs, stick your nose into every cabinet, compartment, under couch, under the cab over mattress, evert where to see if it smells moldy, It has worked for me everttime. Not to say you won't get a leak later on. I bought a large TC, with water standing on the counter top, well we decided that because someone had left the window open that is how the water got there, I knew that there was a leak some place, we could just smell a hint of it. Bought anyway, knowing that I could find the leak, the first place I looked at when we giot it home, was the patch job somebody did, very bad job, fixed it and no more problem. The trick of the leaf blower and soap and water, or a smoke machine and you can find any leak. Good Luck on the hunt.
Bill
__________________
Safe Travels
Have A Pleasant Day
Bill
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10-01-2010, 10:07 AM
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#14
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Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Southeast Missouri
Posts: 8
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Ok, Woodworker, bear with me. I understand the smoke theory, the leaf blower and soap, does it blow bubbles inside???? I thought there is always a possibility that the leak my run a distance, does the sop and leaf blower still detect it?
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