Buying a USED RV? Detailed Walk-through! Watch this first!

[@Ehedquist]

I think you forgot some of the most important things. 1. Does the heater and thermostat work? 2. Does the refrigerator work? 3. Does the air conditioner work? 4. Does the water pump still prime itself? 5. Does the water heater work, electric and lp gas? 6. Was it winterized, so there are no crack sewer or water line leaks from freezing? And right, the nose should tell you if there is wood rot.

[@mcrican182]

Aren’t those items that eventually wear out just like in your home?

[@fantastiqueberliotz1209]

@@mcrican182 Yes they are. But this is a video about what to look for when buying a used RV and if you've ever owned an RV, or better yet, bought a used RV, you would know that Ed Hedquist made some salient points. All of what he listed are things that a buyer "should" have checked before making a purchase.

[@kcb5336]

@@fantastiqueberliotz1209 eh..I agree more with McRican. Those are all serviceable parts. If your looking at a 16 year old rv anyway you’re expecting to service those parts. It’s about the chassis.

[@dangerdavefreestyle]

1:00 "some of the reasons you may want to buy used is because.......". they plummet in value like a ROCK!

[@craiglunn7565]

Yes

[@craiglunn7565]

A clean older rv is a great buy.. I bought a 2005 forest river 25RKSS garage kept. For a 1/4 of the price of new

[@bwbuske]

That is good for teens that want a cheap summer vacation rv, it is cheap and can hold it's extremely low value.

[@pozloadescobar]

@@bwbuske Imagine you're not sure you're ready for RV life and you buy one of the many $100K new models. By the time you realized your mistake, you've depreciated 30K. Nothing wrong with buying used or renting to test the waters.

[@adventureswithgnomie6553]

Cosmetics - you can paint, update flooring & can change fabrics to update. Reseal everything and don't be afraid to get dirty.

[@TheUnsureFox]

Also, remember to make sure it has a title, when dealing with private sellers. If they say, "No Title," don't walk away. Run.

[@sarahbober4167]

Just curious, why should we watch out for that? Does it mean it was stolen?

[@swerboski]

Not necessarily but it can mean they still haven't paid it off and just want to grab some cash and disappear.

[@robertbellk6296]

Ok

[@bwbuske]

Sometimes it is stolen, sometimes they haven't paid it off, sometimes they just don't got a title, either way, don't buy one, always make sure it has a title

[@sarahs7253]

@@bwbuske true. You don't own it if your name isn't on the title

[@noralynn3568]

I look under the sink vanity too.. I noticed an ant pile.. very common in Florida..it lead to wet wood indicating a leak and possible rot.. I'm Grateful I educated myself before buying!! Thanks for your videos! 🌞

[@FrankiesFancy]

I LOVE this floor plan!! Best one I've ever seen! Bedroom at one end, bathroom at the other. I HATE trailers where everyone has to walk through the master bedroom to get to the bathroom!

[@conniepayne591]

And the shower in the open hallway.

[@saintejeannedarc9460]

I noticed that too. They usually put the bathroom at the neck of the bedroom, which is sort of alright, but the reason I prefer it the other end of the RV is the condensation from showers. I've heard trailers and tiny houses are very prone to condensation as it is, so put the bathroom right at or in the bedroom and your sheets are going to feel perpetually damp.

[@alanj7306]

That’s only good if you’re a couple and never have guests...

[@edtworek8094]

As a Certified Inspector, I could nit pick your video, but I do wish to add that aside from visual, life safety needs to be inspected as well. Hot Skin, electrical panel, smoke-LP-CO detectors and fire extinguisher all have expiration dates. Good job overall.

[@curtjackson5052]

Hey by any chance R you in TX near Houston .. I'm getting ready to buy an older Trailer & would like to get an inspection by a guy who's on my side. Thanks

[@adamnguyen168]

How much does a Certified Inspector cost if I wanted to bring someone along to check out the RV I’m looking at

[@theoracle6881]

How does someone even find an RV inspector?

[@NordicNevs]

So one other thing to suggest If your dealer will allow it, hook it up and take it for a drive at highway speeds. Have someone else pass you or drive a ways in front AND behind you to watch the roof. If there is a micro hole or a bad seal you’ll see the roof rubber bubble or balloon out. So many times you’ll see RV transporters pilling even brand new RVs down the road with a huge bubble on the roof You’ll never know with it sitting on the floor or if your the only one driving and traveling without another set of eyes.

[@dbell582]

Lived in an older one of these for 6 months. Never again. Bless the ppl who can live in these things, but I am not the one. It would really have to be much newer and in better condition before I would even consider it again. I am happy to have seen this video. It reminded me of many of the problems with the RV I lived in and things I just didn’t know at the time.

[@sew_gal7340]

what was wrong with it?? It looks very well maintained

[@getgle]

Ok princess

[@aprilmiller1773]

Gosh I live full-time in my 1990's fifth wheel and have for 6 years. It's probably been the most simple living in my entire 48 years of life. Yes I have leaks and my floors are starting to get soft. I have many repairs that I just can't afford but living in my old ancient Fifth wheel has been wonderful.

[@roydavis2242]

When looking on the roof look to make sure it doesn't have low spots. It may have had a repair to it but the underneath wasn't repaired. Use your nose when inside for a musty or mold smells and, to me, scented air fresheners is a red flag.

[@derekbuttery4776]

DICOR products are priceless. 1994 27' C Class rubber was not good (our first and only RV to date, didn't know any of this stuff!) roof had leaked and the rubber was powdered... Dicor was highly recommended and easily applied, just follow the instructions.

[@catfan5756]

Find someone that is allergic to mold. They'll tell you in two seconds.

[@kevinmontgomery1383]

@@catfan5756 BRILLIANT.

[@haulinodie5548]

Agreed, great info. One of the items on a used if it has new tires, having axle alignment checked. On units with steps behind wheels, check for breaking from floor. Also ensuring checking inside every cupboard and shelves looking for any discoloring.

[@bradwilliams4921]

From my limited experience I would say that an inspection like this is a good idea on a new RV.

[@jayo7799]

All good info. Also use your nose, if it smells musty, beware !

[@haulinodie5548]

Agreed, musty smell is a signal.

[@charlesrogers1471]

Signal of leak? or what problem

[@J1978watt]

Charles Rogers yes, a leak

[@jayo7799]

@@charlesrogers1471 Yes, either ext leak or plumbing leak.

[@jjcervanted2]

Mold as well

[@IB-dr7uo]

I'm in the process of buying an RV and this is very beneficial. Thank you!

[@lionmasterz8426]

This video really help my family find a trailer for us to use when we go RVing we found one from the 80s and we really like it.

[@MrNicofrog]

many mentions of "SEALANT" ,huge issue,beware of weekend warriors applications of SILICONE sealant ! It is the doom of most old trailers .silicone does not stick to any surface accept brand new glass or perhaps stainless steel . Nothing will stick to old silicone when re sealing ,not even silicone , nothing removes silicone accept red heat,or expensive "silicone remover" even the "remover" requires double applications, and thorough detergent and hot water cleansing after its use .No paint will adhere to "Sillycone" if you find silicone aps on roof and water damage inside ,I'd say save the heartache and move on. Just a friendly gypsy tip . poly urethane ,or even disgusting butyl are the way to go.

[@DanielJohnson-ec8rk]

Urethane is all I use

[@nortonnewmann3711]

We bought a NEW class C last summer. Before our first (shake-down) trip, while putting sheets on the bed, we found mold on the plywood under the mattress, and on the bottom of paneling next to the bed. There was NO MOLD ODOR inside - I can smell a mosquitto fart at 100 yards. Close inspection revealed that an outside storage compartment door hadn't been completely latched while sitting on the dealer lot. Rainwater had migrated inside - probably over several months in the summer. Fortunately, without hassle, the dealer replaced EVERYTHING (warranty) that had any water damage, mold etc. - and did a VERY meticulous job! Lesson learned - A very close inspection is crucial - EVEN ON NEW UNITS!

[@jgriff3218]

Also open fridge and water heater inspection panels. Check the flooring for rot. I have seen it in many units I have checked out. Older units didn't have tin to route the water outside.

[@sven9262]

Hi I‘m from Germany and our European RV‘s/Caravans are completely different! Watching this is Mind Blowing! Greetings 🖖🏻

[@SDSunriser]

Better, worse, or same?

[@thechroniclesofmaintenance4192]

Good video, valuable info. Additionally I’ve seen a lot of rot on the floors in the corners of older RVs, inside storage compartments, and under cabinets where you must remove a drawer to see. Seems like those areas are susceptible since it runs down the inside of corners and can go unnoticed for quite a while. That rig has a pretty long tongue so check the furthest front and furthest rear spring brackets for bending from extreme cornering when backing. You’d be surprised how many are bent on older units. Proper arc on the axles should be present to indicate it has not been overloaded and damaged them. Again good video...

[@leotalaska2888]

Check the outside corner seams! Any water penetration will cause severe damage. The wood inside will expand and the seam will be impossible to repair and will worsen. Also it will get moldy and musty.

[@wralford]

Bear in mind that many chain campsites prohibit RVs that are

[@coler154]

why?

[@wralford]

I contacted a KOA campsite who told me that cargo trailers converted to RV are prohibited and they must contain a shower. That and the age restrictions are probably designed to keep out the riff-raff; they are looking for an upscale camper who is bringing a smaller version of their McMansion.

[@ricwestdoesitwork]

Super information JD and thanks for sharing. I don't normally buy used anything but, as I get a little older and down size I may buy used. Thanks again.

[@bigphillyed]

Check date codes on tires, easy to Google. Another great video.

[@craigrinehart3239]

The trailer I got was used. Didn't want to spend a lot on the first one. It was in good shape. It's a 2011 Gulf Stream Visa. It's all fiberglass.

[@TheOrangeCat808]

how much did you get it for?

[@craigrinehart3239]

@@TheOrangeCat808 $8k out the door. It’s a 23rbh. This is my 3rd year with it. And put around 8k miles on it

[@TheOrangeCat808]

@@craigrinehart3239 ah man what a good deal! looks so cool

[@craigrinehart3239]

@@TheOrangeCat808 it’s a nice little trailer. Outgrowing it though.

[@waffelsmellgood]

Thank you!! I wish I had seen this before we bought ours. It’s 13 years old

[@supersami7748]

Having owned over a dozen RV’s since the early 70’s (6 of them new) I can honestly say that 10K on 36 Red is a much safer more lucrative investment than a new RV. Great Vid as usual!

[@Turk_2023]

@Luis R They will always lose value though. So unless you are buying used to flip for more money, you are losing money.

[@deborahcummings755]

@Luis R hhhhhh

[@deborahcummings755]

@Luis R hey

[@twistedpixel2558]

@Luis R I'm guessing you've never heard of depreciation? Not to mention that a new travel trailer is one of the most expensive purchases you can make of the cheapest building materials known to man thrown together in the most haphazard manner possible.

[@twistedpixel2558]

@Luis R That's all travel trailers. Brand new ones have stuff fall apart on them a lot of times before you even get it home. They're built out of match sticks and wallpaper. If you own a trailer, new or old, you're going to be working on it. 100 percent of the time it's cheaper to fix what you already own than to make a thousand dollar payment a month on a new one. You don't spend anywhere close to 12,000 dollars a year on repairs.

[@Tsiri09]

There's some streaking at 7:13. This trailer is VERY clean and in decent shape.

[@coolchef09]

also, try to get it plugged in. friend of mine got one home and some of the stuff got fried from the previous owner running the camper on a 100ft extension cord

[@jeffr1469]

Awesome review. How about reviewing one this has water damage, sponge floor & bad slide seals. 👍👍👍👍

[@propbender2]

Great info - Makes me want to buy new, but they have issues also, not to mention the high price! So there lies the trade off. You included some great info that I have not thought much about, i.e. checking the undercarriage, suspension brakes, etc.. I am better equipped to buy used because of your report. Thanks for the education, and keep up the great work!...

[@tanker9929]

Outstanding video, I’m hoping the next video will cover fiberglass travel trailers, and maybe talk about the pros and cons, thank you.

[@poke2748]

I wish I would have done an inspection like this when I purchased my brand new trailer earlier this year. 😭

[@alanj7306]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and information regarding a used travel trailer. I’m currently selling my house and am going to pursue this sort of lifestyle. I’d rather buy used, but it will also be my first time. The more I know, the better I can do. I’m savvy with used vehicles and have always done great buying used cars. Even to the point where I drive something used for up to a couple years and make money or break even upon selling it. My current Suv is listing for more than I paid 32 months ago. I’d really like to do well on a trailer also. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and information!!

[@sew_gal7340]

i LOVE this style , especially the interior...reminds me of the 80s though i never actually got to experience it!! It looks so awesome...and wow everything is so well made too

[@joeo7257]

When somebody buys my used travel Trailer, they will get an entire solar system with lithium batteries. They will also get upgraded tires, a stabilizer hitch, two Fantastic fans, upgraded air conditioner, and a memory foam mattress and Theater seating instead if the uncomfortable dinette. Buying used is a really good thing.

[@ily123456789001]

You selling? Lol

[@frankthompson7526]

If it has a leveling jack check it out! This is especially true if you buy a used camper and the seller offers to bring it to you "FREE" there is a reason. The leveling jacks don't work. If it has a roof antenna make sure they didn't leave the camp ground with it up and break it off. Make sure the battery is good. If nothing works and they ask you to plug it in to shore power....check the battery! There are crooks galore out there! Everything I have mentioned here happened to me dealing on craigslist. I am leaving out a lot! Trust me on that

[@cs6160]

I love this video would love to see more videos about these types of rvs keep up the good work from a fellow corpus christi resident

[@charleswesley9907]

Not mentioned during a frame inspection is to check for cracks in the frame around the spring attach areas . The cracks on Travel trailers can also occur in the web of the I beam at crossmember attach points that are most of the time concealed by insulation boards . On 5th wheels there are 2 areas of concern. The transition area of the trailer to the gooseneck . The frame breaks at that transition and where it supports the pinbox. You can see these frame problems on youtube ,

[@pj9731]

Great Video BTBRV! One of your best ones to date! Masking a smoked in rv with Febreze and signs of pet accidents & damage can ruin a used Rv too! Best Wishes 🇺🇸

[@squidtrader7973]

I will keep these tips when mine when I go to purchase a used RV. Plus pick up a damp meter to gauge rather there’s probable wood rot.

[@mms8393]

A very good video on a very good topic. Some trailers pass through winter states (like this one - Wilkin's RV tag). So keep an eye out for road salt issues.

[@crow6763]

Notice all the sealant on the tank outlet 3:32

[@davidlewis2729]

Love that floor plan .

[@pozloadescobar]

Top notch info, thank you. Looks like a tiny New England vacation cottage on wheels! I like it!

[@pamelahomeyer748]

Good advice about the tires. Tires do have a shelf life and they are subject to dry rot. They can look like they have a good tread but they might be cracked in between and you don't know how deep those cracks go

[@76Duceman]

Relatively is the word of the day.

[@mannymotta2174]

Evidently

[@noname-lq2kg]

Check mattress, cushions and such for any sign of bed bugs. You don't want those SOBs!

[@frankroper3274]

I bought a used one in craigslist. Man said everything worked. Jack did not work...water heater had a burned out element...antenna was broke. I could go on and on but it was my first RV. Do not trust what the seller tells you...check it all out yourself or if you were like me and don't know what to check get someone that does same as a used car.

[@terryhaynes1596]

Looks like you can get to one half of the refrigerator when the slides are in, which is a plus. This is a monster. Certainly not getting into many National or state parks with this unit.

[@danielvillarreal6551]

Sound advice for shopping for an rv. Thank you and God bless.

[@sekiride]

I was at this dealer today. I may buy my first RV this week

[@jorgesandoval6804]

Did you go though it? If so how was your experience?

[@mannymotta2174]

@@jorgesandoval6804 spend extra time checking around and bring a ladder and check the roof.

[@chadsteele1]

I like looking around, new , used etc. The prices ppl want for their 15 to 20 year old rvs is absurd, for instance theirs a guy on market place who's got a desert fox toy hauler, 30ft long app, asking 35,000. I'm like backk in 2010 that's what he new price was, it's a 13,000dollar unit now, another one someone replaced the floor on their 20 year old unit and asked 10,000 I just about rolmao, and just saw it sold yesterday. Are people nuts. It was an average rv. Everything in perspective but holy hell.

[@SDSunriser]

"Sellers Market," possibly due to Covid-19...???

[@sparks2429]

Those same guys are also the ones that have their rusted out shitbox Cummins with 300k+ miles listed for like 25 thousand dollars

[@mayab9203]

Thank you for the awesome expert advice. Super useful and helpful to me on my RV search!!

[@kristenmarie3522]

Did you find one ? Curious for help being s first time buyer with no experience

[@1957kwick]

You need to look inside the cabinets under the sink drains for possible drain leaks or plumbing leaks as well.🛠👍🇺🇸

[@georgewloner4216]

When shopping for a used rig, you need to verify the roof is not gone. I bought from a Houston dealer and the roof was gone First rain let me know the room needed replacing. All of this last purchase taught me not to trust anyone but check the hole camper fr top to bottom.

[@conniepayne591]

The outside is a total mess. It's a mold mess inside. Pull the furniture and get rid of it. Check for bedbugs Take it to Flyte Camp. I do mostly like the plan inside. I also like the bathtub. It's good for kids and you can store a lot of water in case of an outage. Somebody will want it.

[@thecanadianrvrepairguy3062]

Very informative did a great job all the things I do when I inspect trailers for buyers.

[@thecanadianrvrepairguy3062]

From 300-500 depending on size and how in depth they want.

[@AndrewEllisAndymanout]

Your explanation along with other videos I have seen, lead me to consider a three year old, aluminum framed, laminate/azdel sided, toy hauler.

[@carlapogson7024]

Thank you for this video, I always smell the unit snd if it smells musky or there’s a smell of mildew just walk away

[@Milvert08]

This specific video is very informative and helpful, in case I buy a used RV.

[@henrythinks]

And if you see ants, ants love wet wood and they nest in that area so if you do walk away unless you want to take off siding and replace rotted wood

[@herbiequinones1864]

This Video is helpful! I should watch this video, Because, before I made a purchased 2020 Grey Wolf 25' have a little refrigerator issues. Shoot!

[@tammy707]

Thank you so much for this video, best one I’ve seen yet. I’m going to see if you made more. 😊

[@mrswratch5470]

Nice one! Really appreciate you taking time out to do this! 👍🏻

[@kevinbarry71]

Most of these things have the so-called one piece rubber roofs. That's a lie, it's just plywood with a coating on it. If it hasn't leaked, it will leak. Look for evidence of water damage. Those roofs are terrible. If you want to good value find one with a full fiberglass roof, although they are not common.

[@mikeyb66651]

Big fan of your videos. I’ve been waiting to see a. I’d so like this for a while. My big question is, what is the best way to inspect condition of black and grey tanks? You obviously can’t dump the tanks at the sellers home or storage place (some of the time). How would you know if there’s say a hairline crack halfway up a tank that would only leak once it’s half or over half full? Any info would be appreciated!

[@THETOPGLOCK]

Our first trailer was stick and tin. The caulking on the corners shrink and leak water like crazy. I would never consider one unless you got a real good deal.

[@kimlittleton4943]

Super Helpful !!!! Look forward to more like this.

[@imheck]

Look inside kitchen cabinet & bath cabinet floors.

[@harleyhawk7959]

dont forget to ask about mouse infestation, mice love free living spaces.

[@billdojeepin]

That suspension is suspicious to me. Why is it not sitting level if the trailer is.

[@yzhang8629]

Maybe a set of leaf springs has lost stiffness and is dying

[@empress.l.e.tra5904]

oh boy u know your work thank you for educating us on this product I would not think of what u said that one do not look to bad.

[@kurtschulmeyer1041]

Very good video. Most systems are the same reguardless of rv. All used rv more than 5 yrs should really think about re-sealing all windows, vents ect. Any place were the roof or sides have been cut-out for such things.

[@bizarremagick]

Over here in the UK we would use a damp meter to test this.

[@williamsawyer7708]

Thank you that's good to know

[@kevinbarry71]

A used one is a much better idea than a new one, these things depreciate like crazy, but privately, dealers are crooks when it comes to use prices. New prices also. With a used one you are likely to have all the problems worked out that were present when it was new.

[@lucky15driver]

Great information! I'm considering buying an "egg" for some short weekend trips. I'm completely new to RVing and didn't want to make a huge investment to see if I like it or not.

[@michelleparks4582]

Anyone reading this. If you know how to repair, comment!! My RV looks like this one on the outside and I know nothing. Mine is 14 yrs old and I live in it so I want it to last a really long time. I love my little space.

[@FriedShrimpPoBoy]

I’ll be damned. That was bought at Bayou Outdoor in my hometown. Right here in Bossier.

[@jetdriver]

One factor is price of new vs used. I’ve been finding that late model used trailers are not the far off in price from a brand new one of the same model. Consequently it seems poor value to buy used when for a little bit more you can have a new one.

[@jetdriver]

@@j.j.8741 I’m sure there are brands that’s true of but it’s certainly not universal.

[@pauloamado2697]

What about checking inside of cabinets in the corners looking for water damage?

[@jmer3536]

Great Video and Info. There is no way id pay any money for that particular RV or ANYTHING that looks like it inside and out.

[@erichunter14]

Awesome video! I would like to see many more like it. Maybe some examples you have filmed over the years of what problems you are looking for and if they should be deal breakers or not.

[@aaronthegreat1461]

Thank you so much for being so informative.

[@carolreid5405]

Definitely helpful information. Are the new rv’s made to prevent or eliminate water damage now.? Is it sometimes better to get a new or newer unit as you might have costly repairs.?

[@behindthespotlight7983]

Interiors of anything older that 6-7 years depress me. They look like late 80’s salad bars.

[@spicybrown75]

Lol. So true!

[@Mbelm75]

Lmao😅 agreed

[@slowspecv69]

The difference between rv interiors from 2013-2020 has changed more then 1990-2008 I think lmao

[@ajfixessh1t]

I think they do it intentionally. Make them showy so they look great when they're in style, then they age quickly and force you to buy a new one so it's pretty again.

[@katarinahinsey3931]

That's all it takes to depress you?

[@beargrams9276]

Very nice video. I look forward to seeing more of this content

[@TheBirdandEagle]

Looking for an RV now, thank you for your information.

[@robertwalley6692]

Lo oks like the back of the trailer had some damage to it also in the siding

[@gbmac6756]

Thanks for this informative video. Are there professional RV inspectors similar to yacht inspectors?

[@alvarocontrerasjr.7055]

Thank you so much, it was very educational.

[@quick8009]

right off the bat!!!!

[@falconaz]

Roof, roof vents extremely important to get sealed. But guarantee your going to have issues with used RVs... they are simply not well built in general, and will always need something.

[@jimf3836]

I made the mistake of purchasing a used one similar to this one in the video. It was fine until summer. In the SUN the air conditioner could not cool it. The walls are so thin it was like a hot car. I had the air tested and it was OK. Just not enough insulation in Direct sunlite. In Shade it was OK. Same in the winter. The furnace was on more than off when it was cold outside. I do not understand why MFG companies do not add at least a inch or two of foam sheeting with Aluminum. It costs little and makes a big difference. I know as I added it to most of the walls and ceilings then wall papered over it. I found SOME breands had 3 inches from the factory. I realize room is a premium but what use is the room if it is too hot or cold to be in it. Or uses so much fuel and power that you have to get propane tankes filed every day or so and or run a Generator all day 15 hours or more per day for the Air. So get brands with insulation. If you open the door and see the wall is 1 inch thick it probably has zero or almost zero insulation.

[@ubergeek318]

Are you from the corpus area? It's just funny going threw a lot of your videos and you going to a lot of the lots I have been shopping at. But thanks for the videos so I have more knowledge about what I'm looking for

[@teresagrubb6578]

I would like to have a washer and dryer in it

[@sanjosemike3137]

Unless you have good skills at tearing down and replacing areas of walls that have water and mold damage, don’t consider it. It also helps to have welding skills. It is possible to learn to do these thing by watching videos on line. But it is also an ENORMOUS amount of work. You might tear a wall down and find the entire structure is invaded by toxic black mold. You may reach a point where you just cannot deal with it and it may end up haf broken down in your driveway for years. Trent and Allie (on KZbin) have those skills and persistence. Not many of us do. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@greenshereen]

An RV park front desk person told me NOT to buy anything 10 years or older because I would run into A LOT of trouble getting accepted by many or most parks- public or private. How true is this?

[@checkyoursix5623]

Saw a good KZbin video about the 10 year rule at RV parks. Good to watch before you buy that 9 year old RV.