Community Forums

TucsonAZ · 07-17-2022, 05:22 PM

I'm just curious based on the comments in other posts as this is something that certainly frames other choices ranging from travel style to the type of coach we choose.

Max Headroom · 07-17-2022, 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TucsonAZ

I'm just curious based on the comments in other posts as this is something that certainly frames other choices ranging from travel style to the type of coach we choose.

So far, 100%.
And yes, deciding on what coach(s) were on my list was at least 70-80% influenced by the assumption I'd be doing the maint, repairs, and updates.

wolfe10 · 07-17-2022, 05:40 PM

98%

TucsonAZ · 07-17-2022, 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Max Headroom

So far, 100%.
And yes, deciding on what coach(s) were on my list was at least 70-80% influenced by the assumption I'd be doing the maint, repairs, and updates.

I've noticed many comments relating to a very high burden of entry financially for getting into the diesel pushers and the lifestyle in general which is what prompted this post in part. Their comments would make a lot more sense if they're doing less of the work themselves, the cost of a mechanic can be brutal not to mention the trust and vulnerability involved.

Other than a new motor or trans on a diesel I can't imagine having somebody else do work for me but I'm middle aged, have a ton of tools and I'm reasonably able bodied with a rather modest budget so that's informing my decisions.

I'm also curious how this poll would change based on class, I would assume more Class C people do their own work versus Class A people.

dbircky · 07-17-2022, 05:47 PM

Class A dp: probably around 95%. Paid to have an awning topper put on, new tires installed, and Active Air system repaired. Everything else I did. No different than working on a pickup, except the tools are larger and the parts heavier.

Country Road · 07-17-2022, 06:01 PM

100% up to now, but that’s why I buy late model. Seems like I’m getting lazier as time rolls on.

heatherdawnc · 07-17-2022, 06:20 PM

Pretty much everything.
Needed a roof and we had a little problem with the cabover so we rebuilt it.

tripntx · 07-17-2022, 06:50 PM

21 yr old Class A gas V10

The only maintenance we have paid is for a fuel pump to be replaced. Paid to have the fuel pump replaced at a Ford Dealer because we were 150 miles from home when it went out, and it had a full tank of gasoline, 75 gallons. No tools or jacks on side of I45 to replace it.

NERoamer19 · 07-17-2022, 07:01 PM

I've learned that the dealership we bought our RV from is completely incapacitated in it's ability to react to any repair concerns in my lifetime so I'll be doing them all myself. Unless it's a real difficult electrical or plumbing issue. In that case I've found a mobile tech service that seems pretty good from first introduction and I'll use them again.

bigb56 · 07-17-2022, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TucsonAZ

the cost of a mechanic can be brutal not to mention the trust and vulnerability involved.

Other than a new motor or trans on a diesel I can't imagine having somebody else do work for me but I'm middle aged, have a ton of tools and I'm reasonably able bodied with a rather modest budget so that's informing my decisions.

I do it all as well, I have a lot of tools and a shop to fit my small Class A in. However I'm past middle age so eventually I'll probably have to cave. I'm usually disappointed by work done by others, especially when sub par work gets done at first rate prices. Quality of workmanship in this country, for the most part, is gone, whether it be on your RV or your home.

fcbbob15 · 07-17-2022, 07:13 PM

My first RV went in 3 times in the first month for simple repairs and not a single one was fixed. I fixed all of it myself. My current RV I didn't even bother taking it in except for the doggie window. Have repaired anything that came up since. I think it gives you a better understanding on how things work and where components are located.

Ray,IN · 07-17-2022, 07:14 PM

No catagory for me to check. Major repairs are probably 0.5% of all my repairs to our MH. Fuel Injectors, engine water pump replacement are a major repair for most diesel pushers.
The poll must be designed for towables or gas engines.

MinntoMich · 07-17-2022, 07:40 PM

Don't know if others feel this way or not but that's one nice thing about owning an older MH and YouTube or online forums... GM or Ford or Chrysler powertrains were made by the millions over the years and somebodys already wrote or uploaded something that is relevant or helpful.

Sometimes it's a relief to cut the check and let somebody else do the work though. More than once I've had to fix my fix. Usually doesn't happen when you pay someone who knows what they're doing or has done it before.

Gary RVRoamer · 07-17-2022, 07:45 PM

I checked the 50% box but I was nearer 100% on the house stuff and only 20% of the diesel-pusher chassis mechanical stuff. But since we hung up the keys a few years back, it's zero now anyway. I don't even do much car work anymore - wiper blades is about it. Even let the lady at Autozone install the new battery (she was a LOT younger than I!).