The Truth About My RV and Other Common Questions

In a previous video, I introduced everyone to my, "new to me", RV a 2001 Beaver Patriot. That video was much more popular than I expected and I received an incredible amount of support and questions. While I will respond to the questions, I put a video together to answer some of the more popular questions. This should also help viewers looking for a similar era Beaver know some of the more common issues. And re-assure everyone else that even RV techs have to fix their RVs.
Here is the introduction video: • This is the Best RV Ev...
Thanks for watching!!

[@daveulmer]

I just can't quit chuckling after watching these. I paid 75K for my 1995 Beaver Patriot more than 20 years ago and have lived in it ever since full time. Its still going strong with 120 K miles on it. Boondocking all the time. Never paid for a campsite !! The roof is fully covered with solar panels that run a home style fridge and freezer along with induction cooking and Starlink internet. Aesthetically its rough all over from the desert sun but keeps holding together !! Go Beaver !!

[@AZExpert]

That's AWESOME!!! Thanks for watching!

[@retroredo9850]

Since you said you live in yours full time and boondock I got curious if you had videos. Those movie road rocks you filmed in Alabama Hills I can see out my back window right now! We camped and fished up here. My partner I met about 12 years ago said come see where I fish. I wasnt so much a rural woman. I actually started in a big city as a child. He said come camp with me so we took his 5th wheel. Multi issues, no heat! Then got totaled by a tree. Not our fault! Got smaller trailer with insurance pay out thats badly built but chassis is good. Then before I knew it I had moved in with him and looking for our retirement home 4 years ago. And here we are!

[@darcymck1]

I bought a house in 1996 for 75k, sold it for 350k six years ago.

[@thehomelesswhisperer9733]

Dude you're epic. Where are you now

[@AdamsBrew78]

I probably wouldn’t have burned out on RV living if mine had been as nice as the Beaver. After 6 years in an inexpensive 5th wheel, I was pretty much done with it.. But at least the low cost of living allowed me to save enough to completely pay for a well built house in Alabama. Houses that would go for 80 to 120k in other states I’ve lived, are hella cheap here - 30k on a half acre lot, in a quiet, safe neighborhood.

[@jasonbautista8717]

Great video! I'm proud to say that both me and my wife worked on that coach. We worked at the Bend factory for 6 or 7 years and built a great coach. I would have built the slide-outs and side walls, and my wife built cabinets. It's good to see our work still holds up after all these years.

[@sabejreid2072]

Wow!

[@owenmonaco7817]

The cool part of KZbin. Every once in a while, someone runs into something familiar.

[@mikeransom1168]

Willing seller, willing buyer, establishes value. If you are happy and the seller is happy, a good deal all around. You are right this is an exceptional unit.

[@messenger8139]

James, I think that was a great price. And you are better informed and trained that I am at specifically arriving on RV values. It's a gorgeous coach like a work of art. By the way, I always enjoy your videos. There's always a happiness quotient there, like talking over things with an old friend. I really appreciate you and the videos that you put out. Thanks again.

[@AZExpert]

That is very kind of you! Thank you :)

[@MagaRickn]

Deals are out there! Nice coach! We found us a gently used 36' Alfa with a Cat/Allison drive train with only 50,000 miles on it! 6 new tires and all new batteries. And 3 air conditioners. Great score for us as we are newbies and have never even owned a pup tent! ;) Happy for you James! You deserve it!! :)

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@borderprepper]

Definitely a sweet motorhome and with your expertise, it will be top notch in no time. The build quality of that coach is head and shoulders above what's coming out of the factories these days..

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

You are an awesome guy and your videos are so genuine! You paid a fantastic price so such a beautiful RV!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@johnschmehl668]

It's a good thing that you know a good RV guy.

[@AZExpert]

He's always working on other people's stuff though

[@gtfg3800]

For that motor air intake you could bend a piece of copper to cover / cap that seam, siliconing on the outer panel & soldering on the inside or you could clean both sides thoroughly and use a window seam sealer tape but I'm not sure about UV resistance. Love your videos !

[@Edwardmodos]

I despise sink faucets that force you to touch the sink as you rinse, but thanks for showing us more of your Beaver.

[@thewiseguy3529]

Me too. Pisses me off.

[@AZExpert]

They are very annoying

[@whammond511]

I despise sinks that turn on and off automatically!! Seems they never run long enough to get hot and they reach their time limit and turn off just before I get my hands rinsed!! Give me an old fashioned turn the knob or lift the lever faucet any day!!

[@brucealexander9024]

You definitely got a great deal on that coach. I've had a Beaver on my list for a new-to-us coach and can say without a doubt, that's a nice one. Thanks for letting us in on the whole thing; it's very helpful both as an idea of what to expect when looking at a coach of this type and a gauge of "things Beaver".

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@dikd4019]

That’s an awesome coach. Price, age, items too address. It’s just awesome. I just bought my 06’ Monterey private party and I’m having a blast watching your videos and learning how to do repairs and troubleshoot things on my own. Great Coach James.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@BradPaulus]

Thanks very much for sharing. I appreciate you providing the viewers with the information on the issues with a vehicle, as you guys have to look for, deal with, and repair these issues. As is always the saying "the mechanics truck always looks the worst". You guys are busy making a living, and I see, at least those of us who are interested in fixing things; many more videos being produced on the repairs you want to, or need to make. Thank you for your time, and priority of things on the "fixit list'.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@seymourscagnetti1413]

Beavers are great. Everyone loves them.

[@kleetus88]

I feel the same way about "needing" a bit of damage to the RV or car. This is what the Japanese call "Wabi sabi" and it really helps the mind not cycle over everything being perfect all the time.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@deltabravo1257]

Beaver made a really nice coach. I traveled around to rallies with Heart Interface, the major inverter supplier to all of the big name diesel pusher coaches back in the 90s/early 2000s. I always liked the woodwork and interior of the Beaver coaches. I also remember when the Patriot Thunder came out.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for sharing! and Thanks for watching! :)

[@pross263]

Great video, it's a humble person that can point out items on their own baby. As for the price, it was your decision and was comfortable at this price so it was the right price. Best of luck and looking forward to the next video, thanks.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Peter!

[@whammond511]

If you don’t find these through a Dealer, so it ends up being a private sale, how are you finding the Lenders to loan that money on a 20 yr. old unit?

[@danmcbride6258]

I believe you got a great deal on your RV. You have above average skills to repair the issues you find annoying. I agree the Manufacturer did build quality into their RV’s and some of their features are relevant even today. Good choice

[@EfficientRVer]

After you said $64K book and more miles than book, I thought you were going to say, "So I offered the nice, rich old couple with no heirs $42K and they took $51K so they could upgrade to a suite on their upcoming cruise to Antarctica." Of course you did fine, being a pro, just surprised you resisted the temptation to get something slightly rougher to put more sweat equity into it. And in absolute terms, it's a great buy compared to the prices they're getting for new stuff slapped together in 2 days and pushed out the door..

[@AZExpert]

I've seen enough of them by now, I knew what I wanted

[@iantsears]

You secured a great deal. Bottom line is you are thrilled with the trade. This applies to anything. And at the risk of speaking for anyone else in these comments, we are having a great time with you having a great time with it. More videos on this, please. It is just plain fun.

[@ericfox9648]

So down to earth... Grounded... Love it live it drive it like you stole it

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Eric! and Thanks for watching! :)

[@robby1816]

If you're trying to make us less jealous, it didn't work. I love the point about already having some cosmetic damage to the paint/finish. My daughter drove & scratched my first ever new car & was freaking out about having to tell me. I was happy that it wasn't me that did the first one, so was not phased (and I subsequently did other scratches which I was then less fussed about)

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@mmichaeldonavon]

I love your videos - I try to keep up with you. Presently I do not have an RV, but had two Class C's in the past. You are very enjoyable to listen to - easy to follow, with great explanations. I think your Coach is outstanding! You were lucky to find it. Thanks for all you do for we DIYS'ers.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@MrTheBigNoze]

It’s just like buying a house and a car at the same time, and you know all the little quirks, damages, and irritations that come with both. Overall a very impressive coach of its vintage and I know you’ll be able to sort the important stuff out.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@joeblow3939]

James, that unit has a lot of life left in it. Properly maintained could give you a lot of good memories. 👍👍

[@AZExpert]

Well so far it has been!

[@CC-fx4nn]

Congratulations on your new coach. Most of the issues you displayed are pretty minor and really should not take much to fix. Enjoy your new toy.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@whammond511]

Not a toy when it’s your home.

[@grizzly1b4coffee33]

Thanks for the update and sharing some of the things that were wrong with it. As far as what you paid for it, as long as you and the seller were fine with the price that’s all that matters.

[@AZExpert]

I'm very happy with it

[@jdcrow807]

Such and Awesome Coach! She’s Beautiful. Have loved these Coaches since I was a Kid. They were made just down the street from my home. It was awesome to drive by and see them come out the factory. Please look for a Beaver Solitaire for a walk through?/inspection. These coaches were insane in their day.

[@AZExpert]

Yes they are! I will definitely keep that in mind

[@garyag45]

Great video, we just purchased a 2006 Country Coach Inspire. Now the fun begins. Directions we don’t need any sticking directions. 😃👍😎🇺🇸🦅

[@AZExpert]

Have fun Gary!

[@johnthomas1919]

That is a fantastic price. It was bought by the right person. You got a great deal. Well done.

[@valpd]

I am feeling so lucky! We bought our 2000 Newmar Dutchstar a little over a year ago with 175k. Well maintained. No leaks ever. Lots of upgrades (new roof, fantastic fans, automatic awing, new parts etc.). Caterpillar 3126 with Allison transmission, leveling jacks, one big living room slide. We paid $20k. We put 6k into it with tires and maintenance, bearing replacements etc. We have been on the road with it for over a year with no issues.

[@darryllacey1699]

Congratulations on the purchase of your Beaver from Ontario Canada! I purchased a 2002 Rexhall Rosaire - she’s needed a lot of work and thats why I bought it _ figured I’d learn all about her when i was fitting stuff-(its the first rv for me)but we just did a 4500 mile trek across Canada and just a couple small problems. Im handy so it wasn’t so bad. Love watching your videos and learning !

[@AZExpert]

That is awesome!

[@jud2820]

This is so packed with great information about the things in an aging motorhome and what to look for and maintain it, all can say is thank you. I am not in a position to buy new and can fix and or repair almost anything, so your videos are a godsend. After owning an older 74 Dodge motorhome and yes it was rough and well used by the time I bought it I am looking for something in the early to mid two-thousands. Keep the video's coming

[@AZExpert]

Awesome! Good luck with your repairs

[@jud2820]

@@AZExpert Sorry, I just reread my post and no I am not continuing to repair that old Dodge. Made the ececutive decision to let her go before putting any more time effort or money into her. Also I meant to say I am looking for a diesel pusher in the 2001 to 2007/08 as you have recommended. Have come across several in this range up here in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Thanks alot

[@billdylan1600]

min 24 - min 25 ... the longest min in my life . Thx for sharing . EDIT : It was worth it !

[@AZExpert]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bookooc5605]

Thanks, we are all jealous you got such a great RV.

[@AZExpert]

LOL

[@edwinsantini1042]

You got a great deal on it! I would've paid more if I had found such a gem of a Coach! Congrats brother!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Edwin! I'm very pleased

[@DarrylMeeks-z1u]

I just bought a 1999 Beaver Conessa with only 57K miles on it. I love it. It has some minor repairs to be made but nothing on thevmarket is like a Beaver quality.

[@nickthesailor3240]

Since it is your personal property there is no disrespect in disclosing your cost.. I do admire your confidentiality on that issue and at the same time appreciate your candid opinion and efforts in educating us other enthusiasts.. Great video..glad I found you on you tube and appreciate what you are doing.. HELPING PEOPLE. Walk proud.

[@kpit7847]

That's awesome what a beaver you are a pro what a ride very nice 🙂 I'm a diesel nut from 1973 to now am 62 still love it great buy James. Karl from Tennessee ✌️

[@AZExpert]

Thanks 👍

[@ronaldpoole1298]

There is nothing made that you don't have to fix. You're at the top of the HEAP. Best to you and your new RV.

[@AZExpert]

You speak the truth! Thanks!

[@robertburgess6100]

Even with the things it needs to have done it's still a awesome coach.

[@AZExpert]

I think so too! Thanks Robert

[@larzDJ]

I believe the Thunder was their top; model with more HP than the patriot. From what you showed us, there are non safety issues (aside for cO2 detectors, no structural issues and no roof issues. Plus you dealt with the previous owner so you have an accurate history on it too. I always say that the 'perfect' price is in our own heads. We decide if what we paid was worth what we got. It certainly seems that you got every bit of what you paid for. Lucky for you, repairs and upgrades might be less expensive because you have the tools and lots of experience to don them yourself.

[@AZExpert]

If Only I had the time! :) I am happy with what I paid :)

[@tree_monkey3120xp]

Thanks for sharing! Super sweet coach and I greatly appreciate your willingness to show us your coach and your rating of concern to fixing! I have learned so much from you and your videos and I am grateful! Stay safe keep up the great work!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Jose!

[@thriftjapanvaluables7119]

I’m new to your channel, you introduced your new Rv of 2001.. outside & the interior as well , I just love 💕 it… You can make this perfect 👍 because you’re knowledgeable in maintaining it👍🥰

[@AZExpert]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@ronaldsimmons8346]

Love the channel. Have you considered assigning a numbering convention, in addition to your titles so that viewers looking for multiple videos in a series can find them? For example: 2022 1 Roof repair on a Winnebago 2022 2 Inspection of a class b van. 2022 1b Roof repair on a Winnebago part 2 2022 3 Tire issues on class a 2022 1c Roof repair on a Winnebago part 3 2022 4 A new inverter for Jane

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for the suggestion, I'll see what I can do

[@ronaldsimmons8346]

@@AZExpert going forward would likely be enough. Revising past videos would be a heavy task.

[@rick49721]

Thank you for sharing these details with us, I always find your videos full of helpful information. I really REALLY wanted a coach, but because of my budget and lack of skills with repairing and restoring, I did just purchase a 32’ 2021 travel trailer which I know I have a handful of upgrades that I’m doing or going to do to make it my new home on the road. I’m hitting the road second week in December for full time life on the road. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@AZExpert]

You are so welcome!

[@gen81465]

Considering what is charged for a teardrop camper these days (I just saw one for offroading that starts at $99,000), what you paid for this was a good cost/benefit value. I did notice one very minor thing that you partially brought up in this video: you said that a previous owner may have changed some of the upholstery. I believe that is correct. The outside logos all say, "455 Thunder", but he upholstery embroidery says "425 Thunder".

[@WanderToGetLost]

Nice looking motorhome. I saw a Beaver down here at Sunshine Key RV Park. Looks like the exact one.

[@AZExpert]

Cool! Thanks for watching! :)

[@pilotgirl5953]

If you, as a RV tech felt good with the price, then that’s is it !!! Awesome RV. Love it ❤

[@AZExpert]

You got that right!

[@mykgrauss9872]

Thank you James for another great video and showing us all the good and bad or faults of this coach! You are truly amazing at what you do. You are truly trusted by all. Even with the faults, I think you got a great deal. Thanks for the cost info too James!I Regards, Myk

[@AZExpert]

I appreciate that!

[@patriot8087]

This Beaver seems to have really good bones? The Cat engine is fantastic. much preferred in my book. The best part is no def required.

[@ozarkliving7263]

Love the Cat engine, bulletproof

[@jdcrow807]

One of the best big Diesel engines ever made

[@AZExpert]

Agreed

[@stevemorvay2282]

I think today the diesel electric combo engine is hot on trucks. Very good fuel consumption.

[@timwells7983]

Ahhh….cat damage! Thanks for the video and sharing the price you paid. Still a beautiful coach. I’m sure you’ll have the list whittled down in no time.

[@AZExpert]

Again...who brings a CAT!?

[@hillbillyrv]

Nice coach James. I think this is a perfect fit for an RV tech or even an advanced DIYer. I have had people that have bought coaches like this that can't even change a light bulb. They have contacted me and said something like " I want you to fix everything back to perfect condition, just like it was 20 years ago" and I tell them it is NOT POSSIBLE, because even if I did, in a short amount of time they would have another list of 20 things that needed fixed. Old coaches are like really old houses. the repairs are never done. ps. congrats on all the views on the other Beaver video. well done sir

[@AZExpert]

Thanks! I'm really glad it's so popular!

[@Sarge95695]

Great coach. Terrific price! It would have tempted me! Looking forward to seeing all your fixes, maintenance, and upgrades. Our 2000 Harney Renegade has some of the same components and issues. Ceiling material sagging in spots, and fogging glass and bad seals. We replaced our “Creepy Seal” dual pane windows with laminated dual pane windows from RV Glass Solutions. We did them over time (decades) as the budget allowed. One early one had a minor issue with delaminating and they replaced it for free. Sitting in Yuma and still trying to figure out how to access my air dryer filter … sigh

[@DavidHBurkart]

All of these items are within your wheelhouse of expertise or at least you know the who and where to go to address all of these concerns. Appreciate the transparency, you have a great coach & did well in the purchase of it.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@nataliatrumpo3893]

You, Sir, are my new favorite person. I’m HOOKED on your vids!! Thank you for sharing your wealth of information.🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@AZExpert]

Thanks! Tell all your friends how funny I am and tell them to subscribe

[@debijohoffman1875]

Thank you for being so candid. And honest on this beautiful RV. It's a really nice rig and I trust your experience and your payment price point. Have fun!!!!!

[@mojo68mitch]

Love that beaver. We have an older intrigue 1995 vintage and you have given us a great prospective on ours. I also work on RV’s and have done a ton of upgrades and am in the process of designing and building Webasto hot water heating system. Love the older pre-computerized machines. Thank you for your videos.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@bsu1960]

Fantastic Deal fantastic and beautiful coach a pittance in repair costs overall w the Mechanicals and tires being as new. and the air conditioner heat pump. Also. Approaching issues of somethings to be done super cheap , seat covers the back of the fronts are fine please have the dining chairs reupholstered, certainly. A new skylight and reglazing the windows, a must especially. I would rather they stay intact if possible , 2 silicone washers on the brass handles, a dollar lol. redoing the slides gaskets would be a necessity after 20 years and then, after all. With the two Plastic doors being fixed using copper sheeting of which you could fashion remove the wind gauge I can’t remember anything else that would be considered expensive the sagging roof liner is actually the hardest to accomplish. Maybe a shop can use a spray gun in a tiny slit in the fabric to re-coat above headliner, to fix it back onto the wood, or some bows made of whatever material that you could anchor in every so many feet that would conform to the roofline easily and to be painted prior to installation. I guess the most important question is now that you just Disclosed the purchase price Would be the manufactures price when new any add-ons and the conversion to today’s cost or value my 2004 Lexus in today’s dollars would price out $35,000 more than its MSRP just at 100,000 in today’s dollars so what you pay for what you’ve got into it and what you have which I’m sure with this coach is going to shock the viewer at truly how much of a bargain these have a potential to be I’d like to hear about that if you haven’t spoken of it already and awesome video. Also paint the cap the cost of everything being repaired which should’ve been done by now Also given plus the service costs would be a huge factor in showing how affordable this is overall, I guess I should thank you too for taking the time and effort to enlighten the viewers turned fans

[@rickhodges1731]

It is really great that you are able to do most of the repairs and upgrades you want to do, yourself! Paint work being the possibility exception. The one issue you pointed out that I found hard to image was the coach not having a pull out generator compartment. Beavers reputation was such that it seemed impossible that they'd miss that. We had multiple coaches going back to 1986 and have come to the conclusion that were we to get one last coach it would have to be a PERVOST conversation like Emerald. Probably a 2 slide or maybe even the right no slide. Why? Overall structure entegrity and durability. There is no ride to compare or drive ability that comes close, perhaps a Newall not sure. But these busses will run millions of miles unlike the fiberglass coaches. They make the fiberglass rigs look beautiful but they just lack the durability compared to a Prevost.

[@AZExpert]

Prevost is nice, but it's like apples and oranges comparing a Diesel pusher to a bus conversion

[@rickhodges1731]

@@AZExpert you of course are right. Have just come to the opinion that would be the way I'd go if we were to get back into this great past time.

[@FisherPost]

I thought you were going to say you paid 18k….and then we would go crazy because we can’t find those kind of deals- I feel better knowing what you paid- thank you!

[@AZExpert]

I would be singing it from the mountains if that's what I paid

[@scoobiedoo2517]

She is a beauty!!! As long as you're happy with the price, that's all that matters. You know more about the value then most of us

[@AZExpert]

I'm VERY happy with it

[@foyjamez]

With all the extras on it that you shared on the previous video, and the labor costs of installing them, I think you paid a fair price. Makes me think of picking one up.

[@AZExpert]

I always recommend the older ones that were maintained

[@drewd1726]

You…ARE…The Man…man. My kinda guy. Need to see a bunch more of ya. 👍

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Drew!

[@wwells3956]

James, I always appreciate your expertise. About 20 yrs ago, Beaver was sort of the joke of the industry due to poor workmanship. I am not sure if the criticism was valid but maybe the company cut some corners before they stopped production. Looking at your experience , I don’t see much hope for the rest of us. I think it points up the fact that a video or photos usually ( always) makes it look better than it is. Without an educated inspector, you better plan for trouble with the parts you cannot see on a video. I am driving a Prevost of about that same vintage and I have to say there are issues but my opinion is that it is robust comparatively 23 yrs later. But the cost was about x4 the Beaver. Keep the education coming. Best to you. W

[@l.d.8310]

Can you still get financing on an older one like this...This is awesome thank you for taking the time to show all of us.

[@chrisdehart2889]

Nice Beaver....

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@guittadabe5214]

Best Leslie Nielsen line ever!

[@HayesTech]

It's so true how damage to material and paints can be hidden on videos. It's easy to make a good looking background because of that. Video is misleading... Lol.. We use that to our advantage all the time. Another great video and can't wait for the next one. My wife and I plan on getting a tow behind and have learned a great deal from your videos.

[@AZExpert]

Awesome! Thanks for watching! :)

[@gary.joseph]

Great Video! Thank you for sharing with us! It would be awesome to have updates on the projects you do to it. Such a beautiful coach!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@ernielansford8710]

$67K feels like a good value. High perceived value indeed.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@philthome1303]

Definitely get more bang for your buck with well-taken cared for rigs like this one 👍🏁 🚐

[@AZExpert]

I love it

[@nadien1958]

nice and one like it will be within my price range when I'm ready to buy

[@dragnfli520]

It's a nice rig & you have the skills to do what's needed

[@AZExpert]

I really do love it

[@dallas_red904]

OMGoodness, a man that says he doesn't or isn't good at reading instructions. I have my mouth open and showing my shocked face. LOL

[@AZExpert]

I'm an open book, as long as that book doesnt have instructions

[@candacesweet-lorton2081]

@@AZExpert Instructions...put your right foot in put your right foot out, put your right foot in and turn it all about...LOL First thing that came to my mind, so had to do it.

[@bradhoug2099]

I did the same thing in December. I bought a 2008 Monaco Diplomat SRT. 124,512 mileage. Drove it back to Washington from LA. It’s has 3 slides. That means one giant slide on drivers side. Had it out boondocking in a Casino parking lot in Oregon and a big gust of wind and boom. Big slide topper toast. Not that it had been working great anyway but now hanging out all the way the rest of the way home. Lol. Solution I cut it off for now. Then lots of little things like yours slide seals. Radio, new ties, detailed, WTH did I get myself into…???

[@AZExpert]

Just regular maintenance stuff like an old house

[@zmotorsports62]

That is still in pretty decent shape. I replaced all my running lights on our Dynasty about 5 years ago due to just barely starting to crack. My skylight was still in excellent condition after being 20 years old just last month but I went ahead and replaced it as preventive maintenance. As for the cosmetics, I'm one of those anal ones you mentioned about the paint having to be free of flaws or it drives me nuts and will ruin a trip. My coach HAS to be mechanically solid and cosmetically as close to perfect as possible before it leaves the driveway. It gets a thorough inspection before backing it back into the shop after each trip to ensure it's ready for the next. I'm sure yours will get there to. When we bought ours at only 5 years old it took me several months to correct the previous owners neglect before I was pleased with it. Now keeping up on it is much less work. Thanks for the video. Mike

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@tyflesh]

Price doesn't matter as long as you're happy with what you paid for it! Like some of the other comments I would repair the necessity things and start enjoying it, the smaller stuff you can do in between time tinkering... salute great video 📹 👍

[@AZExpert]

Great point! Thanks for watching! :)

[@tomallen1725]

Great response to all the questions! Thank You!

[@AZExpert]

I do my best! Thanks for watching! :)

[@seansimone-e6k]

Thanks for letting me know the price. At that price it is affordable for anyone who wanted to live in one with the correct amount of money down. Thanks again.

[@terry3193]

Hi James. I just love this comprehensive tour....I loved the intro one as well....actually, I love all your videos. For whatever reasons, they seem to make put me in a good mood. I think it's your style? I love your RV...it's so top notch. I think you should get everything done and really take it to another level. As far as the dinette chairs, I'd have them reupholstered. Personally, I have a hang up about trying to keep things as original as possible but that's just me. In regard to the price, it really doesn't matter what anyone thinks or the book value, it's totally sweet, unique so I think $67K was well worth it....I mean, how many are out there like this one? Plus, the book is merely based upon a statistical average so therefore some are sold higher and some lower. Personally, I pay what I think the value is to me and I don't really give a darn of what the bank or anyone else thinks it's worth.....if I like it and want it, then I'll decide what it's worth. I'm excited to see your videos of when you begin making the repairs and other changes. Take care!!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@mull3915]

You got a good deal! You will make it a great deal after you repair the flaws you see!

[@AZExpert]

That's the plan!

[@dominicgroomer2004]

Love the enthusiasm in every video

[@AZExpert]

Thank you! I try

[@vickymaynard4963]

You're correct if you feel good about the price that's all that matters but thank you for sharing. As soon as i saw the other vid i checked out Beavers and did find a few for really good prices, much lower than you paid however they did not have all the upgrades yours has. Love your Rig. Im currently in the market for my first RV and i am expecting to live fulltime in it for at least a few years and travel. Good luck and thanks again :)

[@Siuco]

Finally subscribed. Been watching a few of your videos for helpful tips - your personality matches mine, haha! I have a 2004 Beaver Marquis and have had the same issues - clear-coat peeling on roof, broken wind sensor, wiring/AC issues, sagging slid-out, etc. Love the CAT C12! Anyway, I'm currently servicing my Aquahot and wanted to share something NOT found in your videos or others that I hope can help other owners of the older AHE-100-02s systems. If anyone reads the manual regarding which type of anti-freeze to use, it says "Propylene Glycol" whereas the older systems (specifically mine) use the "Ethylene Glycol" anti-freeze - the same stuff used in older automotive radiators. DO NOT MIX the two! Even if topping up. It does require 16 gallons to fill the system! I got to this video after watching the first one on your Beaver purchase. I was most impressed with how well the carpet protector was applied! haha. I've tried doing as good a job and that stuff is a Bear to work with doing it solo, let alone cutting it perfectly to fit. Keep up the great videos!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for the tip!

[@jamesdillon3320]

THANKS!! I made a comphrehensive list of what to check for when I buy my first dream RV!! GIDDYUP and greetings from Canada!!

[@AZExpert]

Hey Great! Glad to help, happy trails to you

[@sassyd8738]

I like the space on that one for someone who def wanna do RV living that is a nice one to start in with a ton of space not too cramped in

[@AZExpert]

PLENTY of space!

[@RemyRAD]

I know this was 2 years ago. But thanks to you and folks like Liz Amazing. Last month. I think I found exactly what I wanted. Exactly, what I was looking for. With only one small exception. But exactly. What I never thought I could or would ever own. I got it from exactly the kind of people. I wanted to purchase it from. They had a very nice home. It was beautiful inside. It was not cheap. They were living downtown. In a house. Right off of Main Street. Of Lockhart, Texas. And he was 88 and she was 85. And it was time to hang up the, Motorhome. Though they told me they had only owned it for a few years. They had purchased it from another, elderly woman. And they don't know. If they are the second or more owners? They told me. For a single person myself. It's a 34 footer. A 22-year-old, 2002, Monaco, Knight. And the one small exception it did not have for me. It only has 3 slide outs. It didn't have the 4th slide out. With the miniature office. Oh well? I'll have to use the dining table. As it's just me. My husband passed on some years ago. We enjoyed the 1986, Fleetwood Southwind motorhome I had purchased in 2012. But it was time for that one to go. It no longer serve my needs. And memories, painful. I needed a new, new or old white trash motorhome for myself. And with 65,100 miles on the Cummins 300 HP. The 7.5 kW Onan quiet diesel generator with, 1000 hours on it. Everything stock. Everything works great. Everything looks like new. These old folks certainly didn't wear it out or trash it any, at all. The treated it with great reverence. One can see. And it has the 4 door deluxe, Nor Cold, combo LP/120 V, refrigerator freezer. With the dual freezer and icemaker. And everything looks like and works like, new. I believe I paid slightly more than Bluebook for it? I got it for $25,000 cash. I tried to talk him down to $24,000 but no. So that's just fine at $25,000. And in January it got 6 new Toyo Tires. And a fresh inspection. There was no cleanup to do. The driver and passenger leather seats are in perfect condition. Showing no wearing or damage. The leather is in perfect condition. It only had 65,100 miles worth of a couple of old, lightweight asses, upon them. They were both lightweights. He was tall and skinny. She was short and skinny. They look like they could blow down in a breeze.. I believe the vehicle spent its entire existence here in central Texas. I took a peek underneath. Where's the rust? There is no rust just nice clean original factory paint. I wondered where the rust was? Where's all the dirt? And he told me it's never been flooded. It's got mostly beautiful wood floors. No tiles. All the wood is gorgeous. There are no holes anywhere. And when I turned on the original Kenwood dashboard radio. What kind of FM radio station was it set to? It was set to Austin, Texas's, KFMA. The fine arts, good music station for Austin. With Symphony Orchestra's and Operas playing regularly. That's all they play. And that's kind of telling about the people you have just purchased your Motorhome, from. They are not Texas hillbilly rednecks. In fact. He told me he was a U.S. Army Chaplain for 26 years. He's a minister. And a lifer for the US Military. Though he was not the original owner. Perhaps the 2nd or more? He knew how to make certain it was right. Religiously perfect. As there are no religious ornaments to be seen. It's for real campers! And the 2 together took their last camping trip in January. And I'm the lucky new owner in June. Sarah told me she named her, Magnolia. So I now own, Magnolia. I always wanted a Lesbian relationship like this. She's perfect for me. But I get the top. There's a letter that goes up top. I guess I can get a better tan up there? Oh. And I love the color. Black shades of gray and eggshell white. No stupid colors. It's black-and-white and in between. And I think it makes it more stealth. No colors stick out. And the lovely graphics are understated. Classy. Not gaudy. More like sweeping veins of camouflage. White, dark gray, light gray and black. How perfect. Exactly what I wanted. No noticeable colors. I'm a background. Just the way I like it. As unnoticed, as possible. Though it is a large behemoth Bus like Critter. And I will certainly die if I hit anything. Or anything hits me head-on. It's a bus and I'm at the front. Of its flat face. Of which I shall also receive. And I am not in a hurry, anywhere. I get to be a 69-year-old retired widow. With a diesel pusher. I'm in a hurry to go slow. I will enjoy a lot of secondary roads rather than interstate highways. I definitely want to check out Route 66. Maybe also Route 80? More than I 40 westbound to California. I'm not in a hurry. I'm retired. And I will be looking at getting Maximum MPG's out of my, piggy diesel drinker. I've heard I might be able to get 10 MPG out of it? I haven't taken it on the road yet. I'll let you know. The slower the better. I need to make that diesel, last me a few extra miles. So slow going is okay. If 35 mph gets me maximum MPG? I will mostly be driving at 35 mph. That's a lot of state roads. In the middle of nowhere. Which I will love. I can park anywhere. As I brought my 1 bedroom apartment with me. How convenient. I'm still settling in and getting this Expand-O vehicle. To be my new permanently set up home. On the road. As the lease is up on the house. And my mother and younger brother are now dead. Both. Within months of each other. I am completely devastated. And I didn't think I would have to bug out. And leave most of my life and families memories, all behind. As I embark on a new life of my own. In my retirement I will now be fully ensconced in. And become House less.. And precious memories left behind. I can't take everything with me. No reason nor ability to keep it. I have nobody to keep it, for. I'm the last of my family. It all ends, with me. All of these memories are for those who don't exist. And you can never go back. I am not dealing with this well.. I can't fit much more in to the Motorhome. And then it will be absolutely packed loaded with junk and stuff. I will be buried in junk and stuff within. I really don't want that for myself.. But all of those photographs and recordings and other precious memories. Of my family members now expired. And the only way I want to see and remember them. When we were all vibrant with life and loving each other. When my husband of 22 years was alive. We had so much to look forward to in our retirement, together. We had planned on it. He never got the opportunity. He just dropped when I wasn't there to save him. And I have to live with that guilt for the rest of my life. As he had saved my life a few years earlier. And I wasn't there for him. I was 1600 miles away out of town. On business. Oh how I wish I hadn't gone. Maybe I could have saved him? And maybe not? The hospital tried three times over. He was out on the 3rd strike. I was told. I would never see him or touch him again.. Never feel his lips again. 60 years four months old. And we had 22 fabulous loving years together. We did everything together. We worked together. With my company. Oh how he loved it. Oh how I loved him. I'm sorry I have to go cry again. RemyRAD

[@ronmoore3987]

Not a lot a traction on the faucet handles- cracked me up , we love ya brother!

[@AZExpert]

It's very annoying when your hands are soapy

[@matthewstrzelecki4280]

You nailed it James on the damage I am just like that I've tiptoed around it this and it now that I got a gouge in it I feel that same way you do

[@AZExpert]

I still wince though if I scuff it

[@oddlyrightoddlyright2475]

This made me feel better of my new 16 year used rv

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@KW86.]

What a life saver, watching James teach us sooo much, never new Tiffany is better buy.

[@AZExpert]

Tiffin?

[@marknasia5293]

you had me subscribed at "I don't read directions very often" the struggle is real :)

[@6582rg]

Great price, great coach James.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@scarter176]

Great purchase for you James. Very nice coach.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks 👍

[@scarter176]

@@AZExpert James do you know of an inspection guy in the central Texas area ? Im looking at a 2004 Phaeton with 18 K miles on it. Owner passed away.

[@paulricelli5520]

🟥🟥🟥 Yet another great video. I had a similar battery drain on my 2002 Patriot Thunder and upon reading the manual, it says it's common to have a parasitic draw on the system and they say if it's not plugged into shore power in a week, your batteries will die, which I found to be true. Some of the draw does come from the inverter fans that run occasionally. When I'm on the road camped, I'll start the engine or generator occasionally to charge the batteries. And a remote watering system to fill the batteries is a must. Just curious if you noticed my question in one of your previous videos asking about my suspension lean? Keep the videos coming!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!! :)

[@aliceputt3133]

I had a solar trickle charge hooked to the starter battery and that worked fine.

[@mmanut]

New Subscriber‼️ BEAUTIFUL RV. Get all those leaks fixed right away. Water leaks lead to mold. Nice Catch, Looking for one in good shape. Your channel is a must watch for RV owners. THANK YOU ‼️ Vinny 🇺🇸

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for the sub!

[@NYVET48TFW]

I highly recommend the Furrion rear AND side cameras! Had mine ordered with them and I wouldn't be without them ever again.

[@RVerJerry]

11 years ago we bought our 2003 Bounder and all those " I can live with things " you mention don't even bother us. Great motorhome, I love all the upgrades the previous owners did.

[@stuartatkins5425]

Certainly makes more sense to buy a used, older, high quality RV than a new one, since they all have issues regardless of age. I think you got a deal.

[@AZExpert]

I think so too

[@JeffPDX-b6m]

Thanks for another great video! And I’m especially glad you mentioned the price. That helps quite a bit and appreciated. I think even with the mileage, you got a great deal because of it’s condition, and with all the upgrades the previous owners “did for you/gave you”… as you put it so often in your other video. 😂 Especially since it seems as though with many of those upgrades, you mentioned components that you would’ve chosen your self anyway. You did great. I hope you and your family enjoy it for many years to come. And don’t worry about it staying perfect, it’s yours to put your mark on and break in… wear happens.