Community Forums

bigdaddychic · 07-20-2017, 06:04 PM

When starting out for first time for the beginners what is the recommended amount of savings, cash, should you have in the bank? I know breakdowns can cost a lot of money, new transmission in a truck, engine going, tires, or even the smaller items new water heater or new A/C in the 5th wheel ?
Alan

dexters · 07-20-2017, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigdaddychic

When starting out for first time for the beginners what is the recommended amount of savings, cash, should you have in the bank? I know breakdowns can cost a lot of money, new transmission in a truck, engine going, tires, or even the smaller items new water heater or new A/C in the 5th wheel ?
Alan

Need more info ...
are you full timing?
How old is your 5th and truck?
How many miles are you going per month?
Are you including regular maintenance in the number you want?

bigdaddychic · 07-20-2017, 06:13 PM

Sorry about that
- yes full timing
-5th I will be around 6-7 years old size wise it will be between 26-31 ft
- truck will be 7-8 years old
diesel three quarter ton
-miles would be Found 600-900 miles a month
- and yes regular maintenance as well

computerguy · 07-21-2017, 06:23 PM

Personally I do not think there is a "number" anyone can recommend. There are so many variables.
I can/do fix many many things. I have a brandy new MH and car.
I have a $200 a month allowance for maintenance. I do not expect to spend that much in the first few years. But the money will be accumulating when/if I need it in a few years when I need big ticket items (tires/new AC/etc.)
Unlike many people I am good with a budget and don't spend it just because it's there.

dexters · 07-22-2017, 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigdaddychic

Sorry about that
- yes full timing
-5th I will be around 6-7 years old size wise it will be between 26-31 ft
2000
500, increase 50/year for maintenance

- truck will be 7-8 years old
diesel three quarter ton
3,500, increase 50/year
800, increase 100/year for mtc for things like tires, transmission fluid change etc.

-miles would be Found 600-900 miles a month
- and yes regular maintenance as well

.................................

weredoingit · 11-25-2017, 11:05 AM

I don't think there is a right or wrong answer. Everybody is different, read my signature Old 5th wheel even older truck. Both are in excellent shape. For me if something happens, (Or when it happens) I could replace either one with cash or on credit. I think that you have to measure your choices should the unexpected happen (And it will) Say you blow a diesel motor on your 6 or 7 year old truck. Can you replace it? or could you instead buy another truck? I love my truck, but if my power stroke diesel motor needed replacing, then I'm truck shopping. You need to expect the worse and hope for the best. And know your comfort level. I would hate to be traveling and worried what I will do when the unexpected happens. And I'm not rich by any means.

Mr_D · 11-25-2017, 11:17 AM

First month of ownership my rig cost me $22,000 in maintenance due to the engine breaking a valve. Since then I've spenr an add'l $15,000 on new tires, new internal TPMS sensors, window repairs, transfer switch etc.

LETMGROW · 11-25-2017, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigdaddychic

When starting out for first time for the beginners what is the recommended amount of savings, cash, should you have in the bank? I know breakdowns can cost a lot of money, new transmission in a truck, engine going, tires, or even the smaller items new water heater or new A/C in the 5th wheel ?
Alan

There are about three answers for this question.
#1 If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
#2 How long is a piece of string?
#3 A million dollars a year should get you through comfortably.
Lynn

beamisl · 11-28-2017, 04:16 PM

Alan,

Lot's of variables here. What condition will the rig and truck be in when you get them. Will you have to replace tires on the 5er or the truck right away? Has the maintenance been done on both of these rigs and done regularly and correctly?

I have read threads about people getting good rigs, (we did), and stories about people getting money pits. How much do you know about maintaining the vehicles?

How much you spend at the beginning in purchasing the rigs will determine how much you need in the bank. Cheap rigs, more money, good rigs, less money.

To give you an exact amount, I don't think any of us can give you that. Each person bought a different rig, had to fix or not certain things. but do not spend your entire budget. We kept $15,000 for rig fixes if needed and we have only used about $3,800. so we are good. I like having the extra in the bank just in case.

Just make sure you check both the truck and the 5er carefully and plan accordingly. I think the reference to if you have to ask you can't afford it is incorrect. Some of us are planners and we just have to have a bit of a plan to pull the trigger.

This can be a very expensive way of life, but the benefits are amazing! Check out PPL Motorhomes out of Texas. Their website has floorplans that can give you an idea of what you might be looking for. Not suggesting you buy here, but you can start to see the prices and conditions. It is a consignment place and they have a big turn around on rigs.

Good luck to you. Lynne