Vintage RV Buying Guide - TOP 12 Things to Look for Before Purchasing an Old RV!

Thinking about renovating a vintage RV? Here's everything we wish we'd known before purchasing our own vintage camper! Get 50% OFF your first 6-bottle box bit.ly/brightcellarsendless. Bright Cellars is the monthly wine club that matches you with wine that you’ll love. Get started by taking the taste palate quiz to see your personalized matches.
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== About Us ==
We're Eric & Allison and we're on a journey to find the most interesting places and unique foods this planet has to offer! We've traded in our steady paychecks and permanent home for a life of travel and adventure. Come along and see the world with us!

[@familyocean]

I will NEVER buy an RV to renovate. That's why I watch these videos lol. I live vicariously through Endless Adventures.

[@wendywilliamson596]

Me too! Plus van conversions and tiny houses!

[@bebexkaren5739]

True do u have an rv?

[@viviantrinh7153]

Hahahahahaha

[@wendywilliamson596]

bebe xkaren no I don’t. I live in the UK and we don’t have them as much here. Too many small roads!

[@harrydryden]

Wendy Williamson it’s bad here lol

[@RaXXha]

Another tip is to get a moisture meter, they’re like $30-40 and can make the trouble of finding out if there’s moisture or potentially mold in the walls a lot easier. :)

[@johnnymack8442]

To get around the tire thing. You get a set of rims off the make of 1ton truck that your RV is and there you can get 16,17,18 inch rims

[@carolbrizendine8777]

I’m amazed at how excited I get when a new Endless Adventure video drops!

[@ScottyToaster]

Amen to THAT!!!

[@glenn2878]

Me too.

[@MsCateStar]

Me three! 😃

[@stevo728822]

Good tips. The first thing you should look at is the outlet of the tailpipe. If it's rusty or black, then the engine is burning water or oil, or both. That means the head gasket is going on the engine and letting water/oil into the pistons. And when underneath the vehicle check the ridges of the subframe for any cracks or welding. Older vehicles from the 70's and 80's used metal that was prone to rusting. Then check the wear on the tyres. If one side is heavily worn compared to the other then the wheels are out of alignment.

[@t.vanoosterhout233]

By now you are so knowledgeable on the hidden problems in old RVs you could probably market that skill! I continue to like your rebuild project, your optimism and the obvious production values of your vids.

[@chalphon4907]

About the paint job. You guys have almost half a million subscribers, I'm sure there are some talented artists among us (not me though). I think You should do an art competition where You let fans send in pictures of how they would paint the whole thing and then You choose a winner who gets to paint it irl in exchange for a spot on Your next group holliday or something like that. Use Your community, I'm sure people will want to help out.

[@davebones6120]

A good body shop painter can match ANY color.

[@kevinlimo696]

Buy new aluminum siding in the color you want. It's still available.

[@susie2251]

I don’t think that’s the kind of painting they are talking about. Painting a vehicle involves sanding it down and removing all rust. Then there are multi stages to a paint job with paint and finishes. Not to mention, you probably need specialized tools and to factor in the cost of the paint.

[@TommyT_]

@@davebones6120 Well you cant but whatever

[@jt.s.7418]

Offer advertising on your RV for a partial or entire wrap🤗

[@familyfarm749]

To the 1% that is reading this have a wonderful day and God bless you

[@CubanFireball81]

Likewise :-) and Merry Christmas to you and your family/families.

[@adreen5300]

When you're underneath don't forget to check the brake lines! Much important!

[@s.a.stewart2743]

You guys are really killing it, great job. Not sure of your budget, but replacing the carburetor with an aftermarket electronic fuel injection would make a lot of sense. Easier starting, better running, better mileage, less emissions, more power. The installation is most likely out of your comfort zone, such as welding a bung in the exhaust for an O2 sensor, but companies like Holley and Edelbrock make EFI kits for upgrading your vehicle.

[@Lmachine1]

That 16.5 tire size on these older RV's is so outdated that tire manufacturers may not even be making that size tire anymore which is why it's hard to find, and if you do find them they are usually "new" but already old rubber. Swapping out to 16" rims is a good idea as it's much easier to find new tires at a better price. Tip: you can find used 16" dually truck rims on Craigslist or at a junkyard. I found an entire set of 16" dually rims from an 80's Chevy truck on Craigslist for $80!!! My Rv is a 1983 Chevy G30 Minnie Winnie so the rims I found are a perfect match. :)

[@jebsta16]

Am I going to buy an RV, ever? No. Am I going to watch all 12:40 mins? Yes.

[@adriannurse1502]

We didn't do much renovating. We reupholstered all the furniture. We took out one couch and installed a recliner from Lazyboy and had a custom cabinet built to hold the kitty box. In the bathroom we had an under the cabinet light installed. That was so helpful. You can now see the sink area so much better. Other than that our motorhome looks like new inside and out. People can't believe it is a 2006.

[@theoriginalmikeg.]

10 min to start? That sounds like a winner! My 78 took 20 but hey, once it started you were golden for rest of the day.

[@menonsans]

Adding to the last "tip" crawling under the RV would also be a good time to check the underside of the engine - for oil leaks, debris damage to oil pans, rear differentials. - And after you have bought it, it would be a good idea to change Engine oil, brake fluid, differential oil followed by some grease to greasing spots. Vehicles run a lot smoother, and "behave nicely" when they have fresh/ and clean oils and necessary amount of grease.

[@macca6948]

I miss Marvin 🐕

[@Theendlessadventure]

Us too :(

[@symphoniecameron]

my boyfriend and i ALMOST purchesed a vintage ford honey that was already gutted but had a lot of water damage. thankfully we took a few days to think it over, i found your channel and binge watched every renovation video y’all had on our channel and WOOOOweeeee did we dodge a bullet! still going to buy an rv to renovate tho, just hopefully something newer and in better condition lol! thanks for all the tips guys🙏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@heatherdavies1894]

I don't have an RV, have no interest in RV's but I'm fascinated by your restoration of the RV. Look forward to every episode 😀❤️. Hi from the UK 🇬🇧🙋‍♀️

[@droningharry]

When I was in my late 20's my Father in Law and I rebuilt a 40FT Swinger Class A like you've been doing, it was a nightmare. It had the whole inside rotted from water and mold. WE had a big dumpster in the Driveway tearing it down, had to rebuild the frame a section at a time to keep it from caving in. It was fun in a strange way brought us closer together and wow so nice when done. Lots of custom furniture and Cabinets. Motor was solid was taken to California from Illinois and back on it's first trip. Tragically it was lost in a fire about 2 years later a total loss. We did rebuild a Popup after that as well. I think it was a 77 if I remember right.

[@ieddaharrington5167]

I purchased a 77 Class C last week and have been binge watching your videos to prepare me for whats to come. Luckily I’m buying her already gutted so I will see what I’m working with. My mom found her and assured that mechanically she is sound my work will be focused on restoring while appreciating the blast from the past that she is. Thank you so much for compiling your list of what to consider/watch out for...this was extremely helpful. I’m excited for your adventures and can’t wait to see how it all comes together. Also, your intro makes me smile every single time...I cant help but be reminded of my old favorites Full House, Family Matters, etc. Thank you for sharing your great energy and expertise in the making!!! You are refreshing.

[@tonys1636]

One tip on inspecting any used vehicle before purchase, take as many photos, closeup's if possible as one always misses things at the time and looking at a blown up photo later will often show defects missed at the time. a good light needed backed up with flash and different angles. Once satisfied the deal can be done. Don't fall for the old trick of "I have several people interested so the deal needs to be done now". Call his bluff.

[@larrywilkens7428]

Just started my renovation of a 1991 Seven seas by Cobra. It will be a full tear down including walls, plumbing, electrical. All new internals. Started taking wall out and water water every where. The front overhead sleeping is completely gone. lots of work. But cant wait to empty the inside putting everything. Thanks for you fun and informative videos.

[@knownonsense2015]

I will never restore an RV...but I love watching you guys suffer! Truck on adventurers! Love your work!

[@Theendlessadventure]

🤣🤣

[@SucceedingInFinTech]

Best wine commercial...EVER!

[@davidroller1250]

We just purchased a 1981 Winnebago (Brave) It is in need of a full gut job, which I am currently in the process of. Your videos pretty much inspired us and we are excited to start our own journey. We are from Fort Worth.

[@JohnandCaraRetiredTravellers]

Wow!! AGAIN we have to say how impressed we are with you two!! You have worked so hard and are doing an amazing job!! Great video guys! 💕

[@kevinfleming9919]

A Wrap can be done cheaper than painting the RV, plus you can make it any design you want and even add logos in it and easily change it anytime you like. Also you should look for a modern size wheel with the same lug pattern/dimensions so if you are out traveling and blow out a tire it will be easier, faster, and cheaper to get a replacement. You can sell the old wheel and tires to someone needing them for their RV and make back money towards the upgrade!

[@robertford7318]

You guys are rock stars renovating that older RV! One thing that you may or may not know is that several ‘Good Sam’ campgrounds and even more Independent campgrounds are not allowing RVs older than 10 years old in their campgrounds, so when you takeoff on your “endless adventures” when you’re done renovating be sure to call ahead. This has happened to friends of ours and also happened to RV’rs on KZbin channels, even Airstream trailers that are perfect but older than 10 years have been rejected from going in the campgrounds. It’s really a stupid requirement but just be prepared. I don’t think KOA’s or state and national campgrounds have that rule though.

[@Rayraykj]

We just found a 1982 coachmen! So these videos have been the most helpful channel for us! Thank you so so much

[@joelmendoza2981]

You guys are so much fun to watch... Eventhough I can't hardly wait for your back-to-World-traveling vlogs.... These vlogs are keeping us entertained...

[@Travelwithchris]

I get so happy seeing the RV renovations! I'm taking off on my first RV trip this week!!!

[@lisaleem9593]

I love All your videos. I am still finding videos that I've not seen yet. I binge watch your videos to help me get through these dark days. I have been so sad. Your videos help take my mind away from sadness. One day I would love to meet you guys. You guys are so cool. 😎

[@Theendlessadventure]

Sorry to hear you've been hit especially hard through all this. Glad we can help ease some of the stress! Hang in there 💗

[@muffintuffler]

Wow guys thank you for the smiles,so enjoyed the wine tour too !!! ❤️🧀🍷

[@NomadShifu]

It's quite a hard work of fixing the old RV and you did a great job of renovating it. Love the buying guide

[@5cats2kids8]

It’s so incredibly nice of you to share what you’ve learned! 👍🏻👏🏼🙌🏻

[@hopeheavenonplanetearth1417]

OMG! Still working on my glass of wine but I must say... You two are amazing! Thanks for including us on your journey. You certainly made me appreciate my van with very little space🤪

[@ScottyToaster]

Thanks for the weekday video, you guys. What a FUN surprise!

[@JDRCUSTOMFABANDPAINT]

Excellent guide, everything was spot on.

[@BucketListTravellers]

So many things to think about with these old RVs. With so many people interested in these sort of renovations, I'm sure this video will be put to good use!

[@DavidHBurkart]

Thanks to you both. I am spending more on my '99 Bounder than I intended, but it is a labor of love, farming some of the work out and doing some of it ourselves. Always check tire condition, tread depth, and date of manufacture. Unused tires sitting on concrete or dry ground can dry out on the insides. That is why I was glad to see the first thing you purchased were new tires for your Coachmen. Six thumbs up for six new tires 👍👍👍👍👍👍 Roofs are one of the first places to check before purchasing an RV as one of the biggest expenses, if you have to completely re-roof versus simply recoating. Re-roofing is a deal-breaker for used purchase in almost every circumstance, unless you are willing to take it on.

[@amitpatel1971]

Watching from the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Looking forward to more of your videos :)

[@FireflyNanny]

I freaking love your videos! I know it's not possible but I would watch the heck out of them if they came out every day! Lol. You guys are doing a fabulous job, and I would have never guessed that it would be this much hard work to renovate an RV. But all of the detail and the love that you guys are putting into the renovation are just awesome to watch. And you're both a lot of fun too ❤️

[@postcardsfromalexis245]

Thank you for this video! I’ll be buying my first RV in a few months! I’m super excited to get started on my new adventure.

[@TonoyLetsgo]

Life in road trip is a dream for me... Hope to buy a RV in future...

[@ronedelenbos272]

You guys are awesome...kudo's to you both for diving straight in and accepting the challenge. Great Job. Great videos.

[@GilbertNichols]

I'm on my 15th consecutive video of your playlist and I'm a new subscriber today. It's enlightening as i was looking for inspiration for making my own build-out from a box truck. Amazing task you two have done.

[@mildredlackey1938]

To guys have done such a nice job with your own RV and the information you give us is very good to know, thanks,

[@daveadriffield7296]

Thanks for the video. Stay safe.

[@howardscott1556]

The great,much missed British TV chef Keith Floyd always used to say about wine "one glance at the label is worth ten year's experience"

[@delukxy]

Well he was a grade 1 wino so he should know. However, now days they put fancy labels on stuff that's barely drinkable. Traditional ones from known wineries are always the most reliable. Not sure if I'd find Jumble Sale or even Wandering Giants tempting names. 😎

[@tombrown5830]

Keith floyd a great chef 🤙 and he love his wine 😙🍷

[@brightcellarswine]

Wow, that charcuterie board 😍Love to see you both enjoying it!! Cheers🥂

[@alonsogarcia1990]

Great video guys!

[@emmap1259]

Loving your illustrations of your RV to introduce your tips, it's the little things like that that gives you the edge over other KZbinrs.

[@Theendlessadventure]

Aww thanks, Emma! 🥰

[@auntytutu]

You guys are mad crazy wonderful. Fun watching because you are so brave to wade into this wacky idea. Luv You!

[@RVthere]

Thanks SOO MUCH for the info guys! Restoring an older RV down the road is definitely high on our bucket list! 🤞🏻 Were going to have to rewatch this video when we get there. Love your channel btw so glad we found you guys! Can’t wait to watch more! You both rock! 🙌🏻 Stay sage and happy trails! ✌🏻Maggie & Brandon

[@Theendlessadventure]

How exciting!! Hopefully you find yourselves a good one! 🤞Just really check it all out when you go to look at it and we're sure you'll be fine :)

[@michellewilhelmgasser1469]

Love your renovation! I’m not too sure I will need tips, we have a 2018 Wildwood XLite travel trailer! Thanks for the wine 🍷 discount!

[@kathywalsh9312]

great info - wished we knew before we bought 1990 Itasca in 2012 - ours has been lovingly and frustratingly worked on and still not complete - but it has many miles since we purchased and many, many wonderful memories Also finally glad you guys got some sponsership!

[@amandanorman9227]

Thank you for all the tips!!! Just started my renovation..... gutting it will take all winter 🥶 but keep me busy!!!!

[@familyschwindt3751]

Super helpful. Thank you!

[@jbone5058]

Great video!

[@bobguenther6658]

These videos are evidently very important to a lot of people! You’re “views” skyrocket!

[@travelertrome8449]

Great tips! We will all appreciate your RV more after seeing all the hard work that was put into it. That being said, I cannot wait until this is done and you guys are back to doing what was the reason I subscribed - Travel!! 😁🚙🛣

[@Theendlessadventure]

We're definitely feeling the travel itch over here...so more travel will be coming very soon ;)

[@TravellingK]

I'm hooked on your reno videos! I've been renovating an old vintage caravan and wow, it's more work than I expected. I think my biggest issue so far has been making it water tight. I've shared some videos about the caravan experience on my channel. Looking forward to seeing your project progress.

[@Theendlessadventure]

Oh my goodness, sealing/resealing has been the biggest challenge for us as well! Water is so sneaky...it tries to get in everywhere! Hope you get it all sealed soon 🙌

[@strietermarinesurvey1415]

Good tips we buy new now after 6 old RV's, we have the new version of the Coachmen class C that you are restoring. Good luck! Great videos!

[@katewheeler4610]

The next time your in the UK you need to spend a few days in the Isle of Wight! I spent so many holidays over there, a lot to see and do!

[@MRSHYYETI]

My favourite bit was the fantasy wine party scene; I spotted some reverb too! lol PS Deeley sends purrs. He's feeling much better!

[@johnroos5807]

What a transformation!:) Semper Fidelis

[@nonebiz2132]

My first tip about taking on a project like this is: Consider how much and how long it will take to do... And TRIPLE that number. I'm usually pretty close.

[@Theendlessadventure]

Lol! Sounds about right 🤣😭

[@stephaniemomof9746]

Great information! So can't wait till its done and you can take it out on a trip!

[@Theendlessadventure]

Same! 😂

[@hollysmeadow2352]

I feel lucky after watching this with what we bought. That's a lot of work. I'm happy to do some curtain changes, add wall paper etc. But nice to know you have no mold and it's all good.

[@CARLOS68]

Surely the big advantage gutting as you go along is you know what goes where, after watching your renovation so far I've seen a number of occasions where you have used the old wood/metal parts as templates to make the new ones, I guess that would have took a lot longer had you not had any idea what sizes of pieces were needed ? Love all your videos travelling and the renovation :-)

[@Matthew4TheWin]

I suppose the positive here is that every problem you’ve encountered during the renovation is a problem you now won’t encounter when you’re actually on the road. All good! Feels like you’re turning a corner now and I can’t wait to see how you transform the inside of the camper. Onwards and upwards! Matthew, Manchester x

[@3Duncan3]

Elysia English has a video on her camper makeover video series on painting the exterior and made it seem simple and pretty affordable 🤷‍♀️

[@robertbarnes5839]

You guys are so entertaining 😊 Love it!!!♥️

[@thomaslower5375]

Love you guys , we moved from Fort Lauderdale Florida to Saint Augustine Florida and are so Happy , so glad to see you back 💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@thomaslower5375]

You guys are doing a great job

[@MrJasenstewart97]

When you use those washer head screws put some silicone on the screw and hole so it'll help seal it as well

[@ournewneighborhood581]

If it smells like an entire can of air freshener run! You guys have learned a lot in a short amount of time. We restored our 1975 GMC Eleganza 2 . I'm sure the seller thought I was crazy as I stomped on every inch of the floor, pushed on all the walls, inside cabinets and closets too! We got new wheels so we would have tires that are easier to replace in an emergency. Again - we are proud of how you are pushing through!

[@Theendlessadventure]

Lol, another great tip! 👃We'll for sure be those people if we ever buy a used RV/camper again 🤣

[@angiehogan7718]

🥂 cheers dears love all your videos x

[@plantpoweredadventure]

I really do get so excited when I see you've uploaded a new video🤣

[@davebruce3754]

Very funny video, you two are a riot! Keep the great info videos coming. cheers

[@-RONNIE]

Good video of information 👍🏻

[@astral7080]

Love your shows!! greetings from Stocholm

[@Theendlessadventure]

👋👋

[@DanandAbby]

Love love love watching your videos guys! My wife and I we were in the slightly weird position of having accepted jobs to teach in South Korea starting in August, but then Covid happened and the start date for postponed to February. As we had already given up our jobs and house in London, the only family we had to stay with was in France so we had to move there in July. With like 7 months to kill, we decided to travel around Italy and make a KZbin channel vlogging our experience. Your channel has been so inspiring to us!! There have been amazing times along with some sketchy moments, but I wouldn’t trade this time of travelling for anything right now. Thank you!!

[@Theendlessadventure]

Sorry to hear that, but how cool that you've gotten to travel and film in the meantime! We definitely support that move! 😊 We gotta say, we're pretty jealous of your European adventures...we miss being on the road 😭

[@DanielleMarieyt]

I love your videos!!! I recently found your channel and have been binge watching all your adventures! They were all so cool! Its also so cool that your renovating that RV. Growing up I always went camping with my grandparents and they had a RV very very similar to that one. Its a 1984 Midas Freeport it almost looks the complete same as the one you have its the same setup. Brings back so many amazing memories!! We still have the camper and its just sitting I am really thinking about maybe renovating it! Even though its hard work it does seem like its a lot of fun and will be worth it in the end! :)

[@Theendlessadventure]

What great memories! It's definitely a lot of work to restore an older RV, but we think it's worth it ;)

[@jwrappuhn71]

Good vid guys.

[@HonourableHusband]

Wine! Now THAT’S a great specialist niche for you to develop. Camper van vineyard tours. Excellent for when you start traveling abroad again, too.

[@darlenejones1886]

We’ve just been gifted a 1997 class a pace arrow Motorhome from my parents and it needs some updating but it’s in pretty good shape for its age. Our biggest concern is the roof. There has been some leaks on the sides at the top and there are a couple of bulges in the fiberglass on the side. We’re hoping that it can be fixed. 😬 It was a no brainer for us to take on the project though because you can’t beat free, am I right?! 😁 Love your videos! Keep up the great work!

[@KDJFProduction]

Keep up the good work...

[@jrmason]

A note on the 16.5" rims You can go to a junk yard and get rims off of any Chevy and maybe even Ford and Dodge dually 1991 and up that are 16". I did that and painted them up they look great and now my rims are common and decent tires are $130 bucks each! LT225/75R16 series E (10ply) Looking forward to when you get to engine stuff! Have a good one! -Jon

[@EdmundBurgundy]

We too enjoy a nice Carshootery board

[@gwynethglas-brown9171]

Your doing an amazing job .it will be stunning once your finished 🥰. You sure learning alot on the way Actually i read that there have been more caravans,motor homes etc sold during corvid 19 than other years Quite a few to Renovate!! Lookforward to your next video take care .

[@matthewcain7324]

Consiser Linex spray in bedliner for the wheel wells and other aspects of the underside for corrosion proofing but do so after its all put back together.

[@gavinluckyfq3609]

Great add 🤣 and Great episode 👏 😀 🇬🇧🇺🇸 🍻🍷

[@tombrown5830]

Love you guys

[@bill4913]

Thanks for that great info looking for any damages. Do you have any ideas on a completion date?

[@Garciares04]

Thanks!

[@plumbingstuffinoregon2471]

As far as the wheels go if it's impossible to find tires you could go a size up or down with the rims as long they clear the brakes. I'd bet you could get a set of 16 inch rims to fit on there no problem and it barely affect the performance of the vehicle if at all. Usually you can find good deals on tires if you look hard enough though. I managed to find 17.5 inch tires for my motorhome on eBay for about 100 bucks each when the local tire shops said they couldn't find them or they would charge 5x as much.

[@ExpatNatt]

Really helpful video! Love the dress too 😍

[@goob8600]

I’m 13 and I bought a 1977 dodge sportsman and it runs like a dream, but the roof is Niagara Falls. It sucks but I’m still looking forward to fix it up.

[@cookwithsarabatoolsara7075]

Well done 👍

[@murraymadness4674]

I just got a 1974 dodge 22ft. I think they only way for this classics is to complete rebuild them from scratch, so the gutting job is more like remove appliances you probably won't use, and then just smash the rest to bits, don't try to save anything. Look at school bus conversions, and they are starting with nothing but an empty shell, same with vans, etc. Maybe keep the exterior wall panels to keep the same classic look/shape.