5 Things I wish I would Have Done BEFORE Buying Our RV
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- Опубліковано 21 сер 2024
- If I had a time machine I would go back and make myself watch this video! But, alas, we all know that is not going to happen. However, for those who are interested in the full time rv lifestyle this may be helpful to you!
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I'm a retired RV technician Rule one every previous owner lies about how everything works and it doesn't. Two Every RV dealer looks at it and if it is clean and smells nice will wash and wax it and put it on the lot without further delay. Three if you see black residue and or ants you have water damage in the wood, unless your able to tear it down and fix it walk away or deduct repair costs from the sale price. Four, if the manufactures owners manual isn't with the RV get one before you sign any paperwork to buy it. And five if the dealer won't give you at least a 60 to 90 day warranty in writing on your used RV also walk away until they do. A verbal warranty is worthless and of course will never be honored. Take them to court and proof in writing is what the judge will ask for. What you said was really good. One other piece of advice for RV's. If your not using it and it sits for long periods leave it plugged in refrigerator on A/C power with some beer and soda inside water and sewer also. set the A/C to come on if controlled by thermostat to keep temp in unit at say 85 so it seldom runs but does on occasion in short use it or loose it cover any vents to the outside with fine mesh screen or plastic to keep bugs out or they will build nests in refer, water heater or space heater. It's a use it or loose it thing with an RV and it gets costly to fix all this stuff yearly when going on vacation. Money you would rather spend having fun while on the road.
That is an excellent slew of useful information. Well done!
Henry Avery Thanks Henry ! That was very helpful ! 👍🏻
Henry Avery thank you.
Thanks for all that info
Henry Avery nice add!
We researched for about 6 months .,..spent quite a few Sundays at different RV dealerships ...Had one salesman spend about 3 Hours with us going through all the issues with the different class C's and B's ( pressed wood floors and walls subject to rot) to the various Class A's ( pressed wood floors and walls on some ,plywood floors and walls on others) we chose a 2012 Tiffin Allegro Open Road
34 Footer with a Ford Triton V10 Gas Motor.
we chose the Tiffin due to its steel floor construction and steel saftey area up in the cockpit for the pilot and more importantly for my co-pilot/navigator Wife!
It was used had 17,000 on it ,a few issues were the house water pump was separating (dealer shop had to see it but were hoping I didn't) a few electrical light issues ,overall we thought we made an educated and informed purchase.
We took a short " shakedown " trip in Arizona, then we headed of to Florida.
Engine developed a knock in Alabama, we purchased an overpriced warranty ( we now know) ,when we called our dealer in Arizona, they told us to contact the warranty company, who told us just take it to any shop,they "may fix it or they might not"is exactly what we were told.
We prayed our way back to Arizona. Praise God we made it.That was on Dec 9 2015.
This particular dealer has two branches in the Phoenix/Mesa Metro Area...we called the one location where We purchased the RV and were at first told by our service advisor to bring it in,then we were told by the service scheduler " it doesn't work that way,we are too busy ,can't get you in for 3 to 4 weeks".
We ended up calling the main branch and taking our RV in to them ..the Service Manager apologized for the other branch and said he will get us in asap to diagnose the problem.
The RV ended up at a Ford Dealership, the Cam and bearing on the rear of the right side cam is shot( I have a short video on our page)
so now its January 5th and have no real eta of repairs due to weather. At least it's going to be covered under factory warranty.
And Praise the Lord we still have our apartment, or we would be homeless right now.
The one thing I should have insisted on was service records,( I like you, trusted the sales team) . I have since asked for the service records, the wife called our salesman again today asking about the records, and he told her ,He is getting the run around (?)on getting them, I would like to believe him....but.......
Thanks for your Videos
Chris and G ,you are an inspiration to us.
Blessings to you and We'll hopefully connect on the Open Road Somewhere.
+Swift Witness Ministries Wow, sounds like you had a terrible experience. Good idea on the shakedown trip! It will be worth it in the end!
Tiny Home Tours - i would never ever trust a salesman dealer. Check out earthcruiser. Expensive but so are cardboard rvs.
Swift Witness Ministries you are blessed! I just bought a 89 A class mallard sprinter for about 9k I figure I don't drive A lot anymore and just live in it durring summers and it runs good nothing really that wrong with it it does need tires and re sealing and minor things but it seems the old ones like 25 and older are made much better because I have no issues with the floor and its built like a tank I really like it if I ever get physically able to drive(not likely) I am sure it will make trips from Minnesota to Arkansas again zero problems. I meant to say I just bought the rv 6 yrs ago.
This is why I want to buy a cargo van and build it out myself so that I can control the quality of the workmanship and know every system intimately. Class A's are beautiful and have lots more space, but after all the research I've done I'd rather sacrifice the space for peace of mind. The gas milage too is a killer in a class A. Lots of love to you and Miss G.
Me too.
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Ibbygirl yes, I’m headed that way too, build out my own layout and features from a high top van. Still researching... I think I will have to find someone with the tools and time to help me for a reasonable rate.
We feel your pain Chris. We too had the misunderstanding that buying a new or newer RV would keep us from having to fix someone else's problems. Thanks for sharing and safe travels!
Here is another DIY project that worked well for me is Great Stuff foam insulation. Since insulated wall batting will breakdown with time or the interior walls appear paper thin. Drill a small hole in an unobtrusive part of the wall that is paper thin by filling the cavity with Great Stuff foam installation. This will aid in rigidness of the interior wall also may arrest a new a channel for mice to nest.
Glad to see videos like these! We are full timers too (and we spent almost a solid year researching and contemplating the "perfect rig"). Even with all of that prep work, there are STILL things we would have done differently that you don't think about until you are actually on the road full time. Keep up the great work and be safe!
Chris and G, Don't knock yourself out, your still young and 20 years from now you will be laughing your butts off about this. Good for you talking about it, the more you discuss it the more the pain goes away AND your doing a good thing by informing newbies about what to watch out for.
After 30 years of RVing all is will say is, if your your not familiar with basic home systems such as heating, plumbing, electrical and mechanical stay away from RV's (and boats) unless you get a full maintenance warranty that covers everything. Look at it it this way, take your home and put it on wheels then drag it across the lovely interstate highway system of America and guess what would happen !
Yeesh, I think we drag about 100 lbs of tools and spare parts with us whenever we go camping in our 5th wheel. And I swear it's often not enough.
Ron W.
Sage advice from practical experience is called 'wisdom'...and....you've gotta guy ! Thank you for sharing.
+Janet Folkerts Very well stated I also hear you loud and clear!
Hi Great Video! I just wanted to share that you can get a full inspection of any RV at most places that repair them. Its just like a home inspection. It costs around $400 and they check everything from the roof to the fridge to the plumbing. (don't let the place your buying from do it) Also some people will come to you for the inspection, but be aware that if you dont have water and full electric hook up, they won't be able to check everything.
Don't beat yourself up. We live and learn and now you are wiser.
Thanks for sharing!!!
We bought a 13 year old pusher one week before we went to Alaska. We were lucky the people we purchased it from owned a truck business so they took really good care of the motor home. The only thing that went wrong on the trip is the refrigerator died three days before we got home. It was thirteen years old so we could expect that. Over all we were very happy with our unit.
what a great thing to do, share your "wishes" for others to learn from...
Thanks for posting. I am about a year from buying my first RV. I'm watching as many educational video's as I can....reading what i can afford....and subscribing to channels and watching U-tube video's to learn from others. Thanks. Tim
..me too..am retired for last 3 years and spend a lot of time watching vloggers on rv stuff...getting one in six months or so...
Feeling so bad for you....of course, I'm 70 and once my husband and I decided to buy a travel trailer, I hit UA-cam full force. We hadn't camped for 40 years (with a "pop up trailer, a tent, and two little girls)!!! I was amazed, to say the least, and surprised at what we needed to learn just to start looking at trailer. One thing we learned is buying a used trailer was the only way we could afford one, I watched EVERY video and took pages and pages of notes before I started shopping. We found a lot on craigs list, found the one we loved at a great price. In a few weeks we'll take our first trip to Prescott, AZ or Alpine, CA. Good luck to you and your life in your rigg! Post your experiences!
You forgot the #1 Lesson to be learned. Highway driving and the rules of the road that pertain to the physical and the mental aspects of sharing the open road.
Learn them and learn them well. It will save your life on day.
best advice i can give you, KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR ROOF AND EXTERIOR SEAMS !! dont be afraid to caulk the seams so water wont get into the home and rust it out.. the roof on these take a beating from the sun and the original seals WILL DETERIORATE. ...
Motor homes are made out of materials that are light weight. Helps with gas mileage
OMG I totally feel you on this! We should have shopped around more and educated ourselves on how to shop for an RV, how to examine one for problems. We wanted to simplify life, so we sold our house and most of our stuff. Paid off all our debt and bought a truck to pull a fifth wheel. Then we went shopping for one. We knew nothing. Funtown RV saw us coming. We bought a used RV, which can be a great decision. Ours was not. We have learned A LOT and after a year are looking to replace this RV already. This time we know much better what to look for.
Thanks Chris for that very honest information that can surely help others who are thinking about purchasing an RV. And for not being afraid of confessing some things that you wish you had done better! Took a lot of courage to own up to some of those things! Thank you!!!
It's not just the Class A's that have issues. It's that way with all RV's which also includes trailers.
I totally feel you with the learning curve of your RV. I started with older models and then worked my way newer. That really helped me on RV education.
I can relate to everything you're saying Chris. We bought 3 travel trailers in 2 years trying to find one that was remotely reliable. What we found and learned is simply that none of them are. When you say that there are ALWAYS going to be things that need fixing, you aren't kidding. At my age, I soon realized that I was too old to put up with that kind of crap. If the industry is so willing to knowingly ship units that have so little quality control and so little pride in workmanship, then I just refuse to take part in supporting that industry. We still travel and have found a way to enjoy our experiences free from the frustrations and paranoia of this industry. We're just lucky enough to be in a situation where we're able to adapt due to our expectations and minimum requirements. We're much more care-free and have peace of mind knowing that we can't suffer any of the previous let downs of travel trailer systems. We are unique I know and few would be able to do what we do but I do know that it doesn't matter how much you spend or what brands you buy, you will ALWAYS be fixing things :-)
I have been camping since the early 70's and still learning. You hit on some major points for sure. Research for sure is the most important and don't expect that a coach is the same as a house in quality unless you are spending the same as a house and then it still depreciates. As you say, you " NAILED IT "
A lot of good points. I learned this stuff when I started from my folks that have been snowbirds for 20 years. New isn't always better, new just means hasn't broke yet. Sometimes it's better to go used. If a owner really loves and takes care of their RV they will have all the maintenance records, when upgrades were added etc. I was always leery of a RV seller/dealer that didn't do that. Like Chris said, always bring a mechanic. Most mechanic shops (that deal with the type of engine) will send someone if you pay the "labor" price, easy money for the shop. Besides $100 or $200 is definitely worth it for the amount of money you are going to fork out for the RV and any repairs after the fact. Just my two cents
Whenever my RV guy couldn't fix something he'd say, "You know, these things weren't built to be lived in full-time.."
DIY is the name of the game. Simple, accessible systems, practical layout and insulation are key, also a good, slanted roof.
Read reviews, forums and check videos on your prospective rig for common problems.
The southwest US is a good place to find a used FT rig. Many folks FT, then decide to settle where it is warm.
When buying a used RV from a dealer, try to work a service agreement in on the deal. It can save you a lot of headaches if you get a good one. We were so fortunate with our 2000 Montana fifth wheel, manged to get a 7 yr service agreement in which we got a new AC, toilet, and converter out of it over the time.
Another advantage of the Class C Motor home is cracked windshields are easily replaced since it is a common item with vans.
Chris; don't sell yourself short. we all have gone through the same ups and downs. Think of it this way. How many people out there get the opportunity to do what you and G are doing, not to mention the financial aspects of paying for the RV and then keeping it on the road. Your pretty darn lucky, especially at your age.
Hey Chris I'm watching your video and really appreciating the feedback. I have been selling RVs for the past 3 years and have heard many testimonials very similar to yours. What it sounds like to me is that the dealership sold (i guess you could say sponsored) you what THEY wanted to sell, rather than picking the unit that best suits your needs. As far as waiting for a better deal, I can speak from experience that no time of the year is better or worse to get a good deal. And a dealer that has a great service center, or is in a network of dealers, IS worth more money. The problem is so many dealers cut corners to make a dollar and don't see the big picture
Well said, and I appreciate your honesty. Something you just barely touched on there that is paramount, especially for full-timers, is RV insulation. A lot of people don't think of it, I guess, but you need something insulated for 4 seasons. This requires detailed research, but well worth the effort.
I wish I would have seen this video before I bought mine!!! LOL :-) I bought the first one I looked at and didn't even drive it around the block, not even once. Didn't start it up, didn't run any of the systems and didn't ask many questions. Luckily for me I bought it from a friend from work. He is a top engineer and I knew that he took immaculate care of it. He had just put $4,000 worth of tires on it a few months earlier. He babied it like a little child, like he babies everything he owns. So I knew, coming from him, it would be a quality RV and it was. But there was a major problem with the generator that I hadn't anticipated and there's no boon docking without a generator. It took me over a month to get that problem straightened out and I wouldn't have bought it until he straightened that problem out if I had it to do again. And there were other minor issues that disappointed me because I had no idea that even in the best of motor coaches there will be problems. I just thought you bought the big ole house and everything was as beautiful as the cherry wood cabinets. I spent my first weekend fixing one small problem after another!!! Geesh. I replaced the generator's fuel filter, fuel pump and carbureator and I thank God I had those skills because I had no idea it cost $154.00 per hour to have these things worked on! Then I had to replace the toilet flushing valve and fix the electronic heating element (and this was all small stuff)! But after that my coach was SWEET! He did take immaculate care of it, but I was silly to buy it like that. A co-worker and friend you can trust and I'm glad he is mine. I would have bought the same exact rig for the same exact price, but I would have been far more savvy and ensured he worked out that generator problem before I took it off of his hands.
Perfect! I am shopping and this video helps out big time! I've been thinking Class C even though the 'A's' have a roomier look. Much appreciate your video post Chris. Thank You🎄
+Gregory Johnson Build your own if you have the tools and time.
I bought my Winnebago with no RV buying experience either, would do some things differently as well. Love your channel!
I'm glad you shared your experience. I've been thinking of doing "full time" (stationary, instead of an apartment) after I graduate with my Master's in May 2016. I've heard almost all the points you mentioned; however, I think that hearing your 'fresh new' experience really brought it home. Thanks again!
Great video, Chris. So kind of you to share your insights. Getting one that has been actively lived in sounds like a very good plan. Take care. Hugs to you both!
Thanks for the advice. Saving to pay cash for an RV. Subscribing to and watching videos, so as to be well prepared to purchase a decent rig and go to making it ready to hit the road full time on a budget. Exactly the floor plan, with the right amount of storage, etc. for max comfort. Going with C class in 26 to 29 feet.
Love watching your travels.
best way i seen is finding factor tour video of RV that all RV have weight factor cause build on modified truck chassis , finding books on Rv working everything water heater, refrigerator, stove, oven, AC, Generator, water pump, furnaces, microwave,
Chris: They make a clear stick on patch for awing tears. I had one on a travel trailer and it lasted years.
Merry Christmas to you and G, and all the people, that you love.I send the same greeting to EVERYONE also.
Chris there's a big difference between an F53 chassis like you have and an E450 van chassis that a class C is built on. We made the mistake of spending a hundred grand on a new gas coach instead of buying a 34 to 36 diesel a few years old for the same money. Now we owe twice what it's worth and can't get rid of it.
Real good info. We are planning on getting an RV in two years and doing a cross country. We are retired and have time to listen to folks like you so we can take advantage of your experience! Thanks for sharing. Mark and Kathy (Kat).
Thanks so much for the great video! Your information on things to consider when purchasing an RV are points that people like me ; (newbie) would have never thought of. Thanks again!
Always appreciate the information Chris. I'm thinking Class C for a future full-time. Now I have some new things to think about one I am looking at. Much appreciated !!
TY for your candor. I've no experience with RVs of any kind. just thought it might be a potential route for my retired husband and myself... I'm watching a lot of youtube instructional and experiential videos that will help me factor pros n cons. Yours is excellent.
RESEARCH, RESEARCH RESEARCH ...
Chris, I like how candid you are about your experience.
Looking to get into RVing & know almost zero. Your videos help a lot !!!!!! I have lived on my boat for years, so things are "close" but not the same. AT LEAST A rv WILL NOT SINK................
Awesome, glad you are getting something out of it!
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wn6904k lol
Ha Ha, after reading all these stories I couldnt help but think RV's may be worst than Boats and us boat owners know its all sweet until you buy one! Then repairs, maintenance, depreciation gets old quick.
@@bobboitt3126 RV, Boat, same critter different environment. The stove, refrigerator, toilet etc are all very similar. I just wish the RV folks would use marine grade sealants it would solve a lot of water intrusion issues.
Great advice Chris.. There is no doubt you'll be a much better buyer next time around when it comes. I learned many things after buying my first one as well.
I know I'm watching these in the wrong direction; going backwards through your videos. Just came across the one with people threatening to "Unsubscribe" from your channel.Thanks for your videos. They have all been helpful to me or provided me with ideas for my upcoming travels. Keep up the great work.
Good job, again. We did a ton of research ahead of time but time will tell if it was enough. We are now 17 months out from full timing and will be watching every video you share. Safe travels.
You hit the nail on the head with this video. All your wishes are mine too. We live and learn - better prepared for next time and for when friends and family decide they want to purchase an RV. Thanks for a solid video.
Excellent points, especially about researching any loan repayment schemes! We have found since we owned our own home, that we have things going wrong all the time. Having no money, like you, we have had to learn how to fix plumbing, radiators, roof, shower, etc etc. I do admire you for finding out how to fix things yourself. We have fixed things on our little camper too. Sensible advice to shop around, but would you have been happier? You both love this RV. Anyway, take care xxxx
Wow, It sounds like buyer be aware. I think it is worth the time and money to have the RV checked by a pro.
Buyer beware this aint nothing run as fast as you can its all fun and games till
you buy one. Then the nightmare starts. Bought one brand new and i could not believe
the poor workmanship seriously its a disaster.
l was talking recently to people who owned motor homes. They told me that if you park them outside and dont use them that they fall apart on their own. They all said that buying a RV is like buying a boat. They are money pits and they were glad to get rid of them.
Hi Chris, Great suggestion makes total since. Which brings me to my next two questions. Where would I find someone to take with me when looking to purchase a motorhome? Is there a service out there or somewhere I can take the perspective RV for a qualified inspection before the purchase? Next in your video, you mentioned wishing you had gone to Texas when you made your purchase. This is the second video I came across where they mentioned gong to Texas when purchasing an RV. Why is Texas recommended and where in Texas should someone that's want to make an RV purchase go? Thanks for all your help and solid information, you both Rock with this Rv channel !!! Wishing you both many happy miles enjoy your travels ;)
FMCA for one, can supply you with a list of RV inspectors, and for a fee they will check out an RV with you. That fee is small compared to the amount of money you can save, by not purchasing a lemon...
Rory Roberts I had no idea FMCA handled rv inspections for you, wow!
As a previous bus driver, i don't think the front crash protection area is a big deal on those vehicles. I keep a HUGE distance between my buses and the cars in front of me. Keeping the accident not happening at the first place is more important than crash protection.
Anything you pay beyond the scheduled payments goes toward the principal. My suggestion is to negotiate for payments lower than your budget and pay the budgeted amount so you're always chipping away at that principal.
Great video Chris. Just one thing that I would like to point out. Take Ford motor Co. for instance. Class C motorhomes are built on E class vans without the back part. up to the E450. Class A motorhomes, however are built on the F53 chassis which is a heavy duty truck chassis. Nothing like the E series van chassis. I am not really familiar with Chevy Workhorse chassis or Freightliner chassis, so I can't comment about them. However, I would think that there is a difference in the chassis used for Class A and Class C coaches.
Hi Chris, I learned the hard way also, but for me I didn't really have much of a choice because I was homeless and needed to get out of the homeless shelter that was driving me nuts. The RV dealer owner was a real crook and later actually went to prison for all the shady deals he was pulling. The old Titan class A was basically a piece of trash when I got it, and I paid the highest interest possible on it which really hurt my pocket book for almost 3 years, plus it nickle and dimmed me constantly. If I had it to do all over again I wouldn't buy an RV, but instead buy a box van with a 6' X 10' box with barn doors like the ones made for the Air Force and convert it myself with all the knowledge I have now to exactly what I need for my life style. Hang in there Chris, another lesson learned, move on and be happy with G!
I bought a fifth wheel without testing it. it had leaks in the vents and the sink did not work. half the lights did not work it kept short circuiting. I was afraid to even try the propane system. I ended up spending an extra $700 on just basic repairs. my advise is hook it up and test the lines and triple check for leaks. the fifth wheel looked nice for its age and was clean.
Great place in Florida, Frostfree, camp,wish I could live there, cheap and nice
Incorrect info; most gaser class A's today use the Ford F53 chassis and the Ford class C uses the E450 or E350; these are not the same. Although the Ford F53 class A's tend to use the same drive train the chassis varies dependent on the GVWR (i.e., chassis weights for most gasers today are in the range 16K, 18k, 20K, 22K, 24K, 26K) and coresponding lengths of the chassis affect the suspension components .
Thanks for being honest and transparent. Live and learn. We all do.
White noise is actually a calming effect🤔
I have had a bad year and a half, I was diagnosed with stage 3 Colorectal Cancer, still find it hard to believe, then the worst, My wife of 6 years passed away a week before our 6th anniversary going on 7 months now and I have no idea where time has gone, only good news is my cancer isn't present. So one year after Chemo and Radiation treatment I feel better but I have some of the side effects from the surgery. I'm thinking of becoming a full time RV'er, I haven't decided if I'll get a class A and tow a car or a trailer and tow it with a Suburban. Problem I'm going to have is I can't spend more than $2,000.00 for the Suburban and if I go Class A and or trailer I need to stay under $4,000.00, But I'm a car guy and I worked in construction and a Antique store most of my life, fixing stuff is what I like to do. Oh the only other problem is I turn 60 this year, so getting any work might be a little harder than if I was 30.
You nailed this one, I bought a used Class A and I am always fixing something on it. I have a new Fantastic Fan that I will be installing soon, and my Onan Generator has been a money pit and still is not working after spending over $750.00 on it. I do not live in mine full time or I would be pulling my hair out by now if I was.
I find this all the time: Yon can read a contract and have a basic understanding of what it says. I can explain to you what will happen if this or that part of the contract is applied to you, but not until it actually happens do people really figure out what the contract says. That moment when they are held to what they signed causes them to finally understand it.
All that said, you may not have understood everything you understand now without going through it. Even if you'd read the information you're talking about. But you haven't lost anything. Going forward you can apply everything you've learned in a practical way even though you may never fall under the unfavorable conditions you regret now. Nothing teaches like experience.
You video was very informative, and I thank you for it. But what I'm looking for, is info I need to know & understand BEFORE buying or stepping into the the RV life. (I am looking for a travel trailer.) More specifically, what I am looking for is a Guide to RVing BEFORE buying one. What is needed on my tow vehicle BEFORE buying & picking up the trailer? How things work & what I need to know about a TT? How the TT is powered from the tow vehicle, do I need to buy a generator, using the power hook ups at the sites? What do I need to know about the water & waste systems? What is required for regular maintenance, etc.
Can you recommend a decent book/DVD to get me started on the right path?
I considered a Class A but ended up going with a fifth wheel and a Truck I only move it a few times a year and if my truck breaks down I don't lose my home while it's in the shop
In other words, It's like a Chrysler. Get it used. If it's a few years old and great, it's a great car. New, it's a gamble.
a camper, boat, anything recreational or that has wheels will have to be maintained. it's just like a house you have to do work on it to keep it the way it should be. especially if you live in it or drive.
More and more I think a 5 to 10 year old Airstream might be better for us than a motorhome. We wanted a motorhome because we will have our cat with us. I hear the least problems with Airstreams.
I hate to get all Zen on you & G but, "one never stops learning in life" Chris! You'll deff do better with your next rig man!
Thanks for sharing the good & the bad. From what I've learned converted buses make the best RVs because they're built like tanks, not flimsy cheap fiberglass and particle board like a typical Class A.
+George Stone A bus is our 2 year plan :-)
www.technomadia.com/ are a great resource. Tips from me: a 6V92 turbo is a very desirable engine, power + decent mileage particularly with the RTS buses. 6 cyl engines are usually cheaper to maintain than 8 cyl + better mpg. GM 4104s have the durable 671 vs. the 8v71 in the 4106s. Check Yahoo groups for MCI, GM, RTS, Flxible, etc.
+George Stone They were the first ones to get me into them. We need more income first before that can happen. Hence returning to school.
Thanks I've been researching this rv, camper trailer, off the grid mobile living for a while now I know I need to do a lot a research before I finally pull the trigger and you shined a light on a few things a could consider in more greater depth.
So glad this video helped! Best of luck with your tiny living journey, and we certainly hope to see you down the road! 😊
I've recently bought myself a class A and I am about to go full time. Unfortunately, I did not buy from a full-timer, but I think the experience will help me out when I move into a sailboat in the near future.
really good advice. I was looking at a 2004 Monaco Camelot today with a matching car hauler. At least I'm going in with open eyes..... Steve
As usual, another great and informative video but the message seemed mostly negative, so how about some positives? Being the grateful person that I believe you are, can you do a follow-up video of FIVE things that you love, love, love, love, love the most about your Class A RV? I'm sure it would be just as great and informative......Thanks, in advance!!!!
Another thing about Class A or Class C RVs, driving in big cities is horrifying and if you break down, you have lost your home and your vehicle!!!!
We sold our Class A because it was a pain to drive everywhere we wanted to go. I am hoping we can get a fifth wheel soon. We are travelers for my husbands career and need to be able to travel with our home effortlessly.
Be wary of used RV's from dealerships. McGeorge RV in Virginia had a 2016 Newmar for sale with under 5,000 miles. Looked like a great deal, but I found it was in a HUGE accident When I asked the salesperson about what I found underneath the body he tried to tell me that the paint spray is normal from the factory. BS!
Great information Chris. Great point on financing as most people will have to finance. Its considered a luxury or recreational purchase. Read the fine print, as you may not be allowed to pay toward the principal in order to pay less in interest. Many times these loans are set to include all interest for the life of the loan. So there is no benefit to pay it off early.
Salespeople are out for themselves. Work them as hard as they work you. Go through your rig with a fine tooth comb before you drive it off the lot, especially if you plan to live in it full time
Chris -- thanks for a great set of tips. Have been trying to find someone to help concierge and help make reviews and selections of RV. Literally no one wants to do the work. Many persons with the skill to review an RV, are scared that they would be sued if they actually started making recommendations on specific used RVs. Yet the dealers do it all the time. Where are the people who are willing to be an advocate for the amateur shopper? And be paid to do that?
Nobodys has it all figured out all the way. I'm on my second Diesel pusher, the first didn't have a slide. This one has a slide a nice large one, I opted for no slide in the bedroom area as somebody has to crawl over the engine hump witch seams that they can't figure out how to level the bed area. I'm on retirement income so there is no razes in the future, unless the lotto pays me back for all those dollars I've invested in it. I did what you guys are doing for twenty years and enjoyed it a lot, as a boilermaker I went to a lot the power houses on the electrical grids on I-90 and I-5 I got stuck for the winter a couple times I Michigan, and Ohio, and some times in Cal for the winter. It wasn't perfect but if God called me home now I would have no regrets. You guys are a lot smarter than I am I know you guys will figure it out. Diesel Cummings Or Cat ? Best of travels.
Enjoy your channel. My wife and I, are looking to purchase a new/used class a. You give good advice, and are upfront about things you wish you had done different. Just subscribed to your channel, look forward to your videos. Take Care.
Nuclear_Option The newer super class C motorhome is a far better product and is built to haul all that weight like a powerhouse of an eighteen wheeler. No longer are they tiny either just a bit different looking.
True words... Have to say your pretty spot on... Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year....
Actually it took me a about a year researching my top three RV's I was interesting in buying. I selected the one I was interested in purchasing, I garner the VIN Identification before going to the dealer then purchasing a Carfax as well as an RV Check from www.RVChecks.com. I finally went to the dealer with a two inch binder of documentation from my research. I knew more about the RV I purchased than the salesman who sold me the RV. Remember to research and research again, Thanks Chris and G for opening this forum!
+Tim “Tdub” rover You sound like me.. lol. I research, research, research everything. Unfortunately, sometimes, it's the question you don't know to ask that can still bite you in the butt.
+Day Drifter Actually, I did miss something, there were four simulated lug covers that were broken and was well masked with foil. Well I had to purchase a shiny new set of wheel covers. So far nothing has bitten me in the butt although time will tell. The other good thing, I've located the previous (1) owner as well who was like an open book.
+Day Drifter will need to look at this RV checks.com Internet site.
+Kevin J www.RVChecks.com has a nominal fee I think its well worth it, We have to cover as many bases as we can when researching. No doubt Good Luck!
What were your top 3 RV's?
Yea Chris that was a great video. But I have a problem after watching your video I have more questions then answers. 🤠
Amen brother bought a brand new 2015 Thor Windsport 32n and it's been nothing but a pain in the butt! I did a lot of research and the motorhome has been in the shop more then it has been on the road! I haven't even taken a trip yet except back and forth to the shop!
Ya, you went in rather "Green". Personally I would have spent an hour or two looking over the unit and all it's systems: all lighting, water, sewer, electrical. I would have gotten at least a 30 day warranty and spent a few nights "some where" running thru all the systems. I know it was cold when you picked up Atlas, but I wouldn't have ventured far till you got some of the items resolved. You did buy a nearly 8 year old RV.
Chris: Thanks for sharing!! It helps bring a little more reality to purchasing an RV.
thanks for posting, esp. the part about keeping your rv active...I am not full time, but almost...I run it all the time winter/summer...and you are right, it will die if you leave it sitting idle for 4-6 months. Good info...thanks again
What you are really saying is that you did not do your homework and jumped in without knowing what you were getting into. However, even if you did as much research as possible, you would still be wishing you knew more before buying. Same with cars or houses. Don't feel bad. You would still have regrets even if you did as much homework as you possibly could! There is always that one thing you overlooked.
The best way to learn is to make all those mistakes. Also, you cannot learn about an RV from a book or even videos. You have to own one to know what you like and don't like, how things work, how to fix them, what the best options are, etc. You took the plunge. Now its a learning curve all the way and it never stops. The only thing you have to be clear on is whether you like Class A, or B, or C. Frankly, Class A is the best option if you have space to park it. So you did that right. Enjoy it!
The people you meet at RV camps are very instructive. I make a list of essential upgrades I want in my next RV from these folks because they are not profiting from selling anything and are speaking from experience. There is a maintenance schedule for all your appliances just like a car or house, and videos tell you how to do them. Get a log book for these. Get yourself long distance towing service and AAA membership. This is very useful for flat tires and such.
Thanks for your post! This is very good for first timers to know.
Very insightful! My story: Bought a 25 year old Class C that was very well kept. Runs like a top, no drive train issues. BUT!!! Just as you said, this vehicle has a few problems that I've been addressing as I go along. Haven't had any real major issues, but he is showing his age a bit. Mostly small stuff, thank GOD!!! But I like the class C rigs, easier to park being the number one advantage!! Mine is a 27-footer, with a Ford 460 V-8 and a 4-speed automatic; he gets about 10-11 MPG on the road.
Hi Chris, I don't know if the number of "Likes" your videos get has any correlation to your income from the channel, but if I could make a suggestion, it would be to have an "outro" tagged to the end as well as the "intro" to your videos. The reason I say this is that I noticed that Eric at Nomadic has an outro where he asks if you enjoyed the video to please give it a "Like" down below (as well as suggesting that you subscribe if you haven't already). I think I have given a "Like" every video of his, largely due to the fact that he reminds you at the end of every vid. I also noticed that his have a much higher ration of "Liked" to "Watched", I believe it is solely for this reason. To be honest with you it took me watching quite a number of yours before I even thought of doing it, and still will watch a few and suddenly realized I didn't give you the courtesy of a "Like". Not because I didn't like them, IMO your videos take a back seat to no one else, it's just that my ADHD riddled brain needs a reminder each time. Just my two cents tho. Thanks for the quality product you are giving us~* Peace, Russ
All good advice. After going through some of the similar chassis issues with my class A gas coach I really like what the Super Class C's have to offer, including having a crumple zone in the front. Something like the Jayco Seneca.
Better listening to your suggestions, thoughts, ideas, and insight first......before parting with any $$$$$$$. Thanx
Thanks for the tips and I wouldn't beat yourself up too much. How are you going to know what to look for on a 2015 Winnebago Adventurer 32D unless you get to live in one for at least a month? It seems like every coach is a little different than the next and unless the entire line is garbage you'll not hear much about it.
Super cool video! Great information! I loved your delivery and honesty. My husband and I aren't quite at the point of purchase, but I want to educate myself about the possible problems and pitfalls that will be coming our way. Thanks for sharing, I'll be tuning in to watch more of your videos! :)
Great Video ....a must for all future buyers!
Thank you Chris for your insight for the rest of us. Safe Travels :-)
+Olga L. Cholewa Thanks for watching guys!
Solid sound advice. Thanks, it's worth millions.