Community Forums

ssbexley · 09-25-2011, 01:19 PM

We are close to purchasing a 2004 National Dolphin LX and I was wondering if when I get it checked out that i should be concered about?

VSPA · 09-25-2011, 01:43 PM

From a laymans point of view. Everything! First, make sure that the unit has been plugged in for at least 12 to 18 hours prior to making inspection. Start with the outside for cracks, delamination, condition of the tires as an 04 would normally need tires by now, mirrors and storage compartments, lights to include running lights. Inside check all appliances, including toilet, faucets and areas around shower pan, operation of slides and floors for soft spots. Hopefully others will chime in and IIRC there is one guy on the forumn who spent years as an RV service manager. Even with the best of circumstances, you'll always find something later that you have to bite the bullet on the repair and you'll say to yourself,

I should have caught that!

wildtoad · 09-25-2011, 02:15 PM

To add to the above, signs of leaks in cabinets, around skylights, and any where there is a hole through the roof or walls. If the water heater runs on both elec and gas, check operation on BOTH. After wh gets up to temp, check it for leaks. Leveling jacks? Make sure they operate and they show you the proper procedure for leveling.

Tha_Rooster · 09-25-2011, 02:32 PM

Get it checked out before signing, there is to many people buying first and then complaining about their purchase.

edgray · 09-25-2011, 02:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ssbexley

We are close to purchasing a 2004 National Dolphin LX and I was wondering if when I get it checked out that i should be concered about?

ssbexley: In addition to the good advice you received above, be sure to look at the chassis service records, especially the engine and tranny oil change intervals. IF the Dolphin is built on a W-20 or W-22 Workhorse chassis, then you will want to verify that the recent Workhorse / Bosch Brake RECALL has been, or will be, completed before you take delivery.

The Dolphin LX were nice coachs, and if everything looks good and the price is right, go for it!

OBTW, WELCOME to iRV2.com where we love helping each other. Please come back and let us know how you made out with the purchase.
Ed

macnkat · 09-25-2011, 03:23 PM

I can't tell from your original post if you are planning to have a pro check it out or do it yourself? Based on your question I assume you don't know what to look for so spend the money and let a professional check it out.

TXiceman · 09-25-2011, 04:08 PM

Look for an independent shop and have them check the RV. Check the roof, check for leaks, check the all systems operate. Then have the chassis checked to be sure you know exactly what you are buying. Have the sales contract dependent on your inspection being passed.

Ken

Furniss · 09-25-2011, 04:39 PM

We recently purchased a new to us Class A. Of all the PDI lists that I looked at this one is the most complete. Good luck with your new to you coach. Go to this website and you can print the PDI: Pre delivery Inspection (PDI) Pre-Purchase Check list on a New or Used RV - Wanderlodge Owners Group

radams · 09-25-2011, 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by macnkat

I can't tell from your original post if you are planning to have a pro check it out or do it yourself? Based on your question I assume you don't know what to look for so spend the money and let a professional check it out.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TXiceman

Look for an independent shop and have them check the RV. Check the roof, check for leaks, check the all systems operate. Then have the chassis checked to be sure you know exactly what you are buying. Have the sales contract dependent on your inspection being passed.

Ken

These guys know what they are talking about. Excellent advice! I hope you'll follow it to the tee.

sc3283 · 09-25-2011, 09:38 PM

If you don't have the knowledge to check the unit yourself...it will be $$ well spent to have someone that does inspect take a look.

Elf · 09-26-2011, 05:48 AM

We bought our 2004 MH a year ago. I did what you are doing and tried to get all of the information on what to look for prior to inspecting. I probably should have done what has been said here and had it professionally checked out. That would have been the wise move.
That being said, the two things I "should have caught" were 1) the sealant around the shower skylight needed attention and 2) I should have checked the condition of the house batteries. I got those issues taken care of without much problem. The batteries just involved $$ and a little bit of time. The skylight I was concerned about until the next heavy rain.
One other thing is to know that even if everything checks out good, by yourself or a pro, things will start needing to be replaced or repaired soon on a 2004.
Overall we have been very happy with our purchase. I hope yours goes as well.

C-PHartley · 09-26-2011, 07:01 PM

All good advice above. When I bought mine, I put aside $5,000 for unexpected things. I used part of it for a generator repair that failed shortly after I got it home and the rest I will use for travel expenses and upgrades.