Nov
29
Buying a used rv is always going to be more uncertain than purchasing a brand spanking new one. The checklist below is written to help a motorhome buyer avoid the common pitfalls.
Points to consider before purchasing a new motorhome:
1. Check all parts that make up you propane system. Make sure you fully check the LPG system. RV fires do happen and some times they’re the result of a neglected propane system.
2. Check the condition of the leisure batteries. The house batteries hold the charge that powers your lights and other items when not connected to a power supply. Find the leisure batteries and give them a thorough inspection. They will be expensive to exchange, and there might possibly be more than one. Are they properly topped off with water, and do they hold a charge? These batteries are significant and faults with batteries can add a significant amount on top of your buying price.
3. Check that the Campervan refrigerator works on both the electrics and gas supply
4. Confirm the furnace and air conditioning apparatus are working properly. These can be costly units to repair and you’ll want to ask for a reduction if the units are not working correctly. These parts of the campervan are very specialised and time consuming to repair. If there is any uncertainty there might be a defect ask for a reduction if the appliances are not working correctly
5. Does the restroom has any leaks. If the motorhome has been sitting for a period of time the seal might have rotted. Add a small amount of water to the floor of the loo and find out if it holds water for more than 10 minutes. Remember that the water within the wc is what stops the stench attempting to escape from the black water holding tank.
6. Check for soft areas in the flooring especially in the loo and kitchen areas. These may be symptoms of a much larger issue. The motorhome could have leaky supply pipes or drains that are causing the wood to rot.
7. The outer shell of the campervan you are viewing may have some issues. Investigate carefully for signs of ruse or bubbling etc. If you find any potential problems ask the owner to scratch away some of the paint work to get a better look. Typical areas to consider are the roof, welded folds and Wheel arches.
8. If it has a gas engine, then I highly advocate you carefully observe the engine records. A first-rate owner might have kept receipts of all engine repairs
9. Finally, do a Meticulous walk-through. Open and close all doors and windows. Switch everything on and off. Be suspicious and take notes as you walk through the rig.
Alistair king writes for sell-my-motorhome.co.uk a free Used Campervan website. You can explore a bigger range of used campervans for sale in the Uk.