Question:
I am looking for a used rv, probably in the 25+ foot range. My price
range seems to put me in the 1980+ years. I have a sewing business I
started this year, going to horse shows and sewing show clothing. The
response has been good and now I need to have an rv so that I can
travel with my industrial sewing machine so as not to miss any repair
and sewing opportunities.
My question is; what are good brands of rv to look at and what should I
be looking for, good or bad, as far as features or structural problems
that could be hidden from a novice like myself.
Answer:
Things change so much in the RV industry that unless someone actually
owns or has owned one of those brands in or close to that model year,
it's impossible to give you good advice. I would take any motorhome
under consideration to a trusted mechanic to check out the engine and
drive train. If the tires are more than 5 (some folks say 7) years old
(you can check the sidewalls for the date) they will have to be
replaced.
Ask to see the service records for the RV. IMHO, caring owners keep good
records.
You will probably want a rig with a generator as you will need it to
power your sewing machine if there are no electric hookups. Make sure
it is working and has been serviced properly.
Have the consignment dealer fill the fresh water tank and check to see
if the water pump is working. Turn on the pump. If you have not turned
on any faucets and you hear the pump running, there's a good chance
there's a leak in the plumbing. Flush the commode. Run the faucets and
shower. Run the furnaces. Run the air conditioner. You won't be able
to tell if the refrigerator is working properly for a day or two, but
when it's turned on, make sure the proper lights are on for AC and
propane. There should be propane in the tank so you can be certain
there aren't any leaks into the coach. Turn on and light the stove to
check for gas pressure.
