Dutchstar 2004 roof problem?

[nelliemartin]

We are considering buying a 4025 Dutchstar. Very well maintained outside but there's a soft spot about 2'x2' behind the front AC on the roof and another one smaller but behind the rear AC. No signs of water anywhere inside or out but there is a musty smell when you go inside.

the inside needs a lot of cosmetic work but we're ok with that, we just don't want to have to replace a roof!

Any suggestions or help would be very well received. Thanks

[HicksRA]

The attached post refers to someone having a prospective unit tested with a moisture meter. It might be a good idea in your case to see what kind of damage is hidden.
http://www.irv2.com/forums/f59/pre-p...ts-204665.html

[Route 66]

The musty smell could be a big problem.

The soft spot and musty smell sure indicate water problems. Be careful.

[greezykid]

I think I would keep looking.

[JFXG]

Don't be overly hasty about walking away. There's nothing inherently catastrophic about replacing a roof. About $4K, iirc. Chances are the seller/dealer is aware of the problem and will be anxious to move the coach. When we were shopping two years ago, we (and our mech) found our '02 DS with a soft spot in the rubber roof but no other sign of water anywhere, old tires, and old batteries. Otherwise, it fit the bill perfectly. We negotiated all those things off, then immediately replaced them. We replaced not only the roof rubber, but also the entire plywood underlayment, which was seriously delaminated.

It cost us nothing (net) but a couple of weeks, and we started life with a brand new roof, tires, and batteries. In my book that's an upside.

Good Luck!