Purchasing used - need advice on red flags

[gillenkl]

We have a 2008 Fleetwood Westlake popup which we purchase new. There is nothing wrong with it, but the setup is becoming alot of work for us as we get (ahem) older. We want to upgrade but don't think we can afford a new TT unless we come across an amazing deal - we are looking at only spending around $10-12,000 because we want to pay for upfront. So I'm trying to wrap my head around buying a used TT. I realize I can get new mattresses, carpet, etc... We're also not in a hurry to buy so we can take our time. Maybe find a repo'd one or a dealer model. I did find several online but no bunks and we need those for the kids. When we go to look what are some obvious things - trouble spots- we should be looking at. I'm guessing the bathroom? And sink areas? What else? Any advice is appreciated.

 

[ftwildernessguy]

On any of the fiberglass laminated trailers watch for delamination - bubbles in the fiberglass caused by water leakage. Always check the roof inside for evidence of leakage. Check the floors inside any storage units for a spongy feel which indicates leakage and floor rot. You might check dealers now and don't second guess buying new - there are a lot of great deals at dealerships now on leftovers and it is off season.

 

[team bradfield]

On any of the fiberglass laminated trailers watch for delamination - bubbles in the fiberglass caused by water leakage. Always check the roof inside for evidence of leakage. Check the floors inside any storage units for a spongy feel which indicates leakage and floor rot. You might check dealers now and don't second guess buying new - there are a lot of great deals at dealerships now on leftovers and it is off season.

I agree with Jim, check the new models first. Best bet is go to an RV show. they seem to be real motivated at shows. We bought our first TT new from a show, we got a great deal, we paid 12g for a 15g salem, no slides, but real nice 27' model, when we traded it in a couple years later, the dealer said it still booked for 12,500! Shopping for Trailers is fun, Good Luck!

 

[Old Snipe]

Two quick things:

Tires - check the DOT date code on the side walls, should read something like 2608, which translates to mean the tire was built in the 26th week of 2008. Tires older than 5-6 years should be replaced, or sooner if they show damage, cuts, cracks, etc. Not a reason to turn down a nice used unit, but you'll have to plan on new tires.

Secondly, check out the forums on RV.Net. You can ask questions there about specific units you find, probably someone there will own a similar unit and can give you first hand opinions on it.

Good Luck!

 

[Pirate-Jeff]

What ever you buy DON"T buy it from Slicer's on US13 in New Castle DE. Every time you pass by he has another brand and you can't get any service done on the ones he was selling last month.

He still owes me 2 payments on the MH we traded in. It seams he forgot to pay it off for 2 months after the trade.

 

[dblr]

I did not think that Slicer's was still in buisness, I heard he went under. Anyway I always had good luck when I dealt with them, but that was also back when things where better in the rv trade. We now deal with Stoltzfus in Adamstown Pa alot farther away but a great dealer.

 

[wrongagain]

Since the OP's location seems to be a secret, I dont know if you are from the northeast or some other top secret location, but, up here, there are some new 2007 leftovers still on the dealers lots and they are giving them away, almost.