Howdy & Thanks!

[Matthew Duff]

Hello

My wife and I have been reading on here for days. There is so much support and info it's a bit overwhelming.

We are in our 30's, with 2 boys and in hot pursuit of our first class A. I had a 71 VW CampMobile (that's as close to an RV as we've been), but gave it to my Dad last year. So, we are new to RV's and have a few good reasons to jump into ownership.

1. We went to Disney World this year, and we want to go back as frequently as possible. At the same time, we are torn between Disney and State Parks.
A class A MH will reduce the cost of a Disney vacation, and thereby allowing for at least one State Park visit per year.

2. I just paid for the engine rebuild on the 71 VW I gave my Dad: both parents could use a MH to make longer trips than the VW is capable of; although, he drove his previous VW to Florida from Missouri twice.

3. I worked at Burning Man this year, and will be going back next year too. I help setup software. I do this the week before the event begins, then I go home before the event starts. I stayed in a Yurt (foam tent), but would prefer to have a nicer place.

Now for the bad news.....We are suckers for old VW's and Volvos and can already tell we're headed straight for a class A MH money-pit. We don't want to spend much on purchasing our first MH (the spending will come during reno & rebuild). Combine that with our desire for vintage machinery, and we'll be spending a lot time on this site seeking pro advice.

My wife and I have read a lot already, and we are super thankful for all the knowledge shared on this site.

So..Howdy & Thanks!
MD

[sdennislee]

Hi and

[MSHappyCampers]

Hi Matthew! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

Hope you find the perfect rig for your needs! It may be a little hard to find a VW class A!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

[beamisl]

Hi Matthew and Wife,

Welcome to the Forum! You've come to the right place for info about anything RV.

Like you, many understand the love of older rigs and special ones. Go to "Vintage RV's" for some very interesting rig redo's and very talented people who will be a big help to you in this endeavor.

You can get a good used Class A MH cheaper than you think. Figure out a few things first. Gas or Diesel, floor plan is really important, do you want to redo an engine or the inside or both?

What is your budget? Can you buy something 10 yrs old or do you need to go older?

Some people take extremely good care of their rigs and others not at all. What you want to find is the first type. We bought used for pretty cheap and knew up front we had to redo some things. Upgrade electronics (TV, to digital, Radio to Bluetooth) and replacing some windows. All told we spent about 2/3 's of our budget and came out with a nice rig. It can be done, just take your time.

With kids you will need plenty of storage. Class A's have the most. Don't forget your tow vehicle can also be used for storage.

Best of luck in finding what you want. They are out there, just have a kiss a few frogs to find your prince. Lynne

[Matthew Duff]

Hi Beamisl

Our budget is about 35k, but we want to go older than 10 years, -trying 30

Currently looking at an early 80's 35' class A. It's gas, new R-134 compressor & condenser up front, new synthetic oil & gas, filters, anti-freeze, thermostat, Onan has been serviced, new 215 house & gen battery, LED lights, new JVC stereo & TV, with a GMC 454 on a P30 chassis. Tag axle too.

It will need new tires, brakes re-done, and tank seals to name a few.

We've learned all of this from this forum!

If all goes well, I will be driving it home this weekend.