RV Dealers USA Travel

RV Dealers' Web Pages - USA  You are here: About > Travel > Camping > RV Resources > RV Dealers USA Travel Camping Essentials Find A Campground Campground Reviews Camping Recipes Camping On A Budget Camping Lessons Topics Advice for Beginners Campground Directories Campground Reviews Campground Cooking Camping Tips Camping Gear Planning Your Trip Outdoor Destinations Outdoor Events Outdoor Work Photo Galleries RV Resources Summer Camps National Parks Outdoor News Buyer's Guide Before You Buy, Compare Campground Directories 2006 Editions Gift Ideas for Campers Camping Gear Reviews Essential Camping Items Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Camping newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Camping RV Dealers' Web Pages - USA A directory listing of RV dealer Web sites in the USA. Articles & Resources Sort By : Guide Picks | Alphabetical | Recent Up a category 10,000 RV Sales New and used RVs, San Diego, CA. A & S RV Center New and used RVs, Auburn Hills, MI. A.C. Nelson RV New and used RVs, Omaha, NE. All American Coach Co. New and used RVs, Toledo, OH. All Tent Trailer Rentals New Coleman tent trailers, Ventura, CA. 94 more Articles & Resources below Articles & Resources more from your guide Alpin Haus New and used RVs, Amsterdam, NY. AOK RV Sales New and used RVs, Menomonie, WI. Appleton Camping Center New and used RVs, Appleton, WI. Arizona State Trailer Sales New and used RVs, Mesa, AZ. Avalon RV/Marine New and used RVs, Medina, OH. Ballantyne RV and Marine New and used RVs, Victor, NY. Beaudry RV New and used RVs, Tucson, AZ and San Diego, CA. Bluecrick RV Sales New and used RVs, Spokane, WA. Bob Cox Camper Country New RVs, Knoxville, TN. Bob's Travel Center New and used RVs, Santa Rosa, CA. Broadmore RV & Truck Center New and used RVs, Pasco, WA. Buddy Gregg Motorhomes New and used class A conversions, Lakeland, FL. Call of the Wild RV Center New and used RVs, Oxford, ME. Camper Capital USA New and used RVs, Garland, TX. Camper's RV Center New and used RVs, Shreveport, LA. Camptown RV New and used RVs, Clayton, NC. Capetown RV Sales New and used RVs, Cape Girardeau, MO. Carolina Coach and Camper New and used RVs, Hickory, NC. Cloverleaf RV RVs by Georgie Boy and Forest River, Plainwell, MI. Coach House Custom built van motorhomes, Nokomis, FL. Coachlight RV New and used RVs, Carthage, MO. Coldsprings RV New and used RVs, Weare, NH. Colfax Country RV Coachmen factory outlet, Colfax, NC. Coulee Region RV Center New and used RVs, West Salem, WI. Country Camping Corner New and used RVs, Matthews, NC. Curtis Trailer Center New and used RVs, Schoolcraft, MI. Dennis Trailer Sales New and used RVs, Lansing, MI. Dillon's RV City New and used RVs, Apache Junction, AZ. Dixie RV Superstore New and used RVs, Newport News, VA. Elder RV Jayco dealer, Montrose, MO. Farber East RV Superstore New and used RVs, Columbus, OH. Findlay RV New and used RVs, Las Vegas, NV. Fretz Enterprises RV New and used RVs, Souderton, PA. Garick RV New and used RVs, Oak Ridge, NJ. General RV Center New and used RVs, 5 locations in MI. Golby Motor Corp. GMC motorhome maintenance and restoration, Orlando, FL. Happy Daze RVs New and used RVs, Sacramento, CA. Hartville RV Center New and used RVs, Hartville, OH. Harvey Trailer Sales New and used RVs, Winter Garden, FL. Hawley's Camping Centers New and used RVs, Fayetteville and Garner, NC. Hitcharama RV New and used RVs, Turnersville, NJ. Holland Motor Homes New and used RVs, Holland, MI. Holman Motors, Inc. New and used RVs, Batavia, OH. Johnson RV Sales Used class A and C RVs, Portland, OR. K & C RV New and used RVs, 2 locations in CO. Kamper City New and used RVs, Peninsula, OH. Lakeside RV Sales New and used RVs, Anderson, SC. Leach Camper Sales New and used RVs, Council Bluffs, IA. Lee's Country RV New and used RVs, and petting zoo, Batesville, Indiana. Leisure Tyme RV New RVs, Mary Esther, FL. Leo's Vacation Center New and used RVs, Gambrills, MD. Lloyd Bridges Traveland New and used RVs, Chelsea, MI. Loveall RV New and used RVs, Columbia, MO. Marlin Ingram RV Center New and used RVs, Montgomery, AL. Martinsburg RV New and used Gulfstream motor homes, Martinsburg, PA. Mike Rosman RV New and used RVs, Vernon, BC. Mobility RV Winnebago's, Hanlontown, IA. Myer's RV Center New and used RVs, Albuquerque, NM. Nolan's RV and Marine New and used RVs, Denver and Lakewood, CO. North Point RV New and used RVs, Chippewa Falls, WI. Outdoor Living Center RV New and used RVs, Russellville and Van Buren, AR. Paul Everts RV Country New and used RVs, Fresno, CA. Paul Sherry RVs New and used RVs and conversion vans, Piqua, OH. Peco Camping Center New and used RVs, Decatur, GA. Pikes Peak Traveland New and used RVs, Colorado Springs, CO. Posts Traveland New and used RVs, Columbus, OH. Poulsbo RV New and used RVs, Auburn, Poulsbo, and Everett, WA. PPL Motor Homes Used RVs, Houston, TX. R.V. World New and used RVs, Nokomis, FL. Rayewood RV Centers New and used RVs, Sussex, NJ, and Middletown, NY. Rich and Sons Camper Sales New and used RVs, Grand Island, NE. Robert Crist & Company New and used RVs, Mesa, AZ. Saddleback RV New and used RVs, Irvine, La Mirada and Carson, CA. Sirpilla RV Super Center New and used RVs, Akron, OH. Sky River RV New and used RVs, Sunnyvale, CA. Stalkup's RV Superstore New and used RVs, Casper, WY. Stewart's RV Center New and used RVs, St. Clairsville, OH. Stoltzfus RV and Marine New and used RVs, West Chester, PA. Stouts RV Sales New and used RVs, Greenwood, IN. Sunbird RV New and used RVs, Hazlet, NJ. Sundance RV New and used RVs, Vernal, UT. Tacoma RV Center New and used RVs, Tacoma WA. Tom Raper RV New and used RVs, Richmond, IN. Tom Schaeffer's Camping & Travel Center New and used RVs, Shoemakersville, PA. Tour America RV Center New and used RVs, Billings, MT. Tradewinds RV New and used RVs, Ocala, FL. Travel Easy RV New and used RVs, Tacoma, WA, and Mesa, AZ. Vacationland New and used RVs, Big Rock, IL. Van City RV Class B motorhomes, St. Louis, MO. Walt Michal's RV Center New and used RVs, Belleville, MI. Wilkins Recreational Vehicles New and used RVs, Hornell, NY. Willie's RV Center New and used RVs, Bloomer, WI. Woodland Travel Center New and used RVs, Grand Rapids, MI. World Wide RV New and used RVs, Mesa, AZ.   Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2006 About, Inc., A part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About Tips to Losing Weight Guide to Distance Learning How to Travel for Less PHOTOS: Italy PHOTOS: Hybrid Cars What's Hot Cardinal Sins of Campers Illinois Camping Destinations Camping Basics Lesson 11 Dad's Best Chicken Fingers Lakewood Camping Resort Headlines RV Parks Ready For Mardi Gras Attention RVers and campers. New Orleans is preparing for Mardis... Camping Recipe of the Week The next time you fire up the skillet to make... Top 10 Cardinal Sins of Campers Camping is supposed to be a relaxing outdoor experience. However... Staying Warm Sunnycamper posted in the Camping Forum that she had recently...

used motor home with

Motor Homing in Europe Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living As seen in Transitions Abroad Magazine November/December 2004 Related Topics Camping Abroad Budget Travel Related Articles An RV in Europe Car Camping Through Europe Off-Beat Camping in Europe Motor Homing in Europe The Best Way to Meet Your European Neighbors By Steve Hunt A young camper savors Florence's delights from the backdoor of her family's motor home. Recently, I completed an 8-month trip across Europe by motor home. As a former tour operator, I’ve traveled just about every way imaginable. I found motor homing hard to beat. You pack once; you travel where you want when you want; you have no worries about where the next hotel room will be, and you have to try hard not to meet people. If you’re traveling to Europe on a short 2-or-3-week vacation, a motor home may not be ideal. Some wrong turns on unfamiliar roadways, and this can cause problems for people on a tight schedule. But for a family exploring Europe for the summer or a retired couple with plenty of time, it’s ideal. So why didn’t I meet more Americans in Europe’s 8,000 campgrounds? First, let’s look at the basics. There are three ways to acquire your camping van or motor home: rent, lease, or buy. The least expensive way to go on a long trip is to buy. You may want to buy from an outfit that will guarantee to buy back your rig at the end of the trip. For optimum savings, consider a good used motor home with low mileage. I contacted an outfit in Amsterdam recommended to me by an experienced RVer and made my arrangements over the phone. When I arrived, my camper was ready and waiting. I even shipped several cartons of supplies in advance and they were stored in the motor home until I arrived. There are some technicalities regarding insurance and registration, but these are handled by the outfit that sells you your camper. I met a number of Americans traveling in Europe who had considered motor homing but decided against it because they were afraid of being stuck with the motor home at the end of their trip. The buy-back program resolves this dilemma. Many companies will agree to sell your camper on consignment at the end of your trip, but I found most people wanted the security of a guaranteed buy-back. Buy-backs vary but usually average around 65 percent of the purchase price. Needless to say, the longer you travel, the cheaper the cost per day. Reasonable used motor homes and camper-vans ideal for touring Europe range between $13,000 and $35,000 depending on size, year, and condition. Europeans love to camp and there are campgrounds just about everywhere. They range from complete destination resorts with swimming pools, tennis, entertainment, bars, restaurants, and grocery stores on premises to more rustic campgrounds with few extras. Almost all campgrounds have basic necessities such as bathrooms, showers, dishwashing facilities, electric hook-ups, and chemical toilets for waste. Many people find a central location they like and take day trips using the campground as a base until they move on. Costs If you take the cost of your camper (minus buy-back or anticipated resale price) insurance, registration, campground fees, and gas you can get a good idea of your costs. My costs over 245 days, traveling an estimated 16,500 kilometers, were 1,678 euros for gas, 1,452 euros for insurance, and 932 euros for registration. Campgrounds averaged 15 euros per night for one person, electric hook-up, and camper. Add five to eight euros per additional adult and three to four per child. My low was eight euros and my high 28. Some people save money by free camping (camping in truck stops, beaches, and along the road) but I did so only in an emergency and don’t recommend it as a standard practice. Besides, you miss one of the big advantages of camping Europe. When you’re in a campground, it’s hard not to socialize and meet people. Fellow campers will be intrigued by the fact that you’re an American camping through Europe. I can’t count the number of times I was invited over for a glass of wine and conversation. And if you are traveling with kids, you’ll be amazed how they communicate through body and sign language as if talking really didn’t matter. Another way to add meaning to your trip is to allot some time for visiting with a local family. Servas , an organization of international hosts in over 100 countries, will provide you with host lists for the countries you request. The normal routine is to spend two nights at the home of a host family, usually including dinner. The objective is to learn about each other’s way of life and exchange ideas. Some hosts will give you a tour of the local area and all can provide useful information. Dine with the Danes, a more commercial venture, provides a dinner-only exchange in Denmark for a fee. Servas charges nothing except for a membership fee, but the usual procedure is to thank your host with a small gift or bottle of wine. Finding space in campgrounds is a lot easier than finding space in hotels (although at popular vacation destinations in July and August, it’s helpful to call ahead and reserve a spot). Not all campgrounds take reservations, so if the area campgrounds are crowded the best bet is to arrive early. I never made a reservation during my eight months of travel and was only turned away twice because a campground was full. In both cases, I got a spot at a neighboring site. I also tried to arrange my itinerary so I avoided crowded vacation destinations during the summer. Preparation A good campground guide is essential for locating places where you want to stay. Another essential item to get before you leave is an International Camping Carnet card. This provides admittance to most campgrounds (in some cases at reduced rates) and is held by the campground instead of your passport. Don’t leave home without it. (See the Camping Tips sidebar for a listing of good books on camping in Europe and other services and suggestions. Proper planning is the best insurance for a smooth travel experience.) Camping Tips and Resources Propane Tanks: Your camper will undoubtedly come with one full propane tank (used for refrigerator, hot water, and sometimes heater) and possibly a small reserve "camper" tank. If you’re traveling for more than two months, get a second full tank from your camper outfit. This gives you plenty of time to get your empty tank replaced when it runs out at the most inopportune time. Electric Heater: Get a small electric heater in Europe. It saves on propane during chilly nights and you just plug in at the campground. GPS: I never used one but the new camping books are coming out with GPS readings. Hand-held ($250) or dash mounted ($1,000 and up). If you’re into gadgets, you might enjoy one. Satellite TV: If you’re on a long trip this is a great way to keep in touch with what’s going on via CNN, BBC, etc. Many campers have them. Money: ATM cash machines are the easiest and least expensive way to obtain cash in Europe and are everywhere in Western Europe. Books: David Shore and Patty Campbell, Europe by Van and Motorhome (Odyssey Press, 2001). Basic how-to guide to RVing through Europe more than a listing of campgrounds. Good tips on a successful trip. Order direct at 760-723-6184 or shorecam@aol.com , www.roadtripeurope.com . $16.95. Mike and Terri Church, Traveler’s Guide to European Camping (Rolling Homes Press, 1999). Picks best campgrounds in popular spots. My guide for much of my trip. Indispensible. Updated edition may be out by now. Order direct from publishers at 1-888-265-6555 or at www.rollinghomes.com . $19.95. Carol Mickelsen, Camping Europe (Carousel Press, 2001). Similar to Church book. Order at www.caarousel-press.com , Amazon.com, or local book store. $19.95. The Caravan Club, Caravan Europe (The Caravan Club Ltd., 2003) Two-volume edition is the most comprehensive printed listing of European campgrounds available. Separate volume for U.K. campgrounds. Also sells a membership card for U.K. campgrounds similar to the Camping Carnet card listed below. Order from club at Dept. DC, Freepost, E. Grinstead, W. Sussex, RH19 1ZB, U.K.; Tel. 011-44-1342-318813, fax 011-44-1342-410258; www.caravanclub.co.uk . £9 English pounds per volume. Membership card £27 pounds. ACSI Camping CD-Rom 2003: If CD-Roms are more your thing, this one in seven languages and complete with search engines and pictures lists 8,000 campgrounds in 24 countries. Order from ACSI Publishing BV, Postbus 34, 6670 AA Zetten, The Netherlands, Tel. 011-31-488-452055, fax 011-31-488-454210; www.acsi-gids.com , info@acsi-gids.com . 15 euros. International Camping Carnet Card: Order from Family Campers & RVers, 4804 Transit Road, Bld. 2, Depew, N.Y. 14043-4704; 716-668-6242; 800-235-9755. $35. US Servas, Inc.: 11 John St., Room 505, New York, N.Y. 10038; Tel. 212-267-0252, fax 212-267-0292, info@usservas.org ; www.usservas.org . Membership $65. Dine With the Danes: Contact: Anette Haargaaard, Smallegade 20A, 2000 Frederiksberk, Denmark, Tel. 011-45-26-85-39-61, fax 011-45-38-19-39-64. www.dinewiththedanes.dk . Dkk350. Braitman & Woudenberg: P.O. Box 1891, 1000 BW, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Tel. 011-31-20-6221168, fax 011-31-20-6203855, www.bwcampers.com , info@bwcampers.com . Dependable camper sales with buy-back and support while traveling. Bilbo’s Trading Co.: Eastbourne Rd., South Godstone, Surrey RH9 8JQ, U.K.; Tel. 011-44-1342-892499, fax 01-44-1342-893793; www.bilbos.com . Buy-backs available. Brownhills Leisure World , A1/A46 Junction, Newark, Nottinghamshire, UK. T +44-1636-704201. Sales@brownhills.co.uk , www.brownhills.co.uk . Buy-backs available. Rutenkolk Caravaning: Friedberger Landstrasse 434, D-60389 Frankfurt, Germany; Tel. 011-49-69-9474090, fax 011-49-69-94740969, info@rutenkolk.de , www.rutenkolk.de . Buy-backs available. STEVE HUNT is a professional tour operator who has traveled extensively. He is currently touring Europe by motor home. Contact him at whall237@yahoo.com . Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Disclaimer ©Transitions Abroad

Luxury RV

Texas RV Resort, Luxury RV Resort, Luxury Resort RV Texas - Blazing Star Luxury RV Resort RV Sites - Daily Banner Site Retreat Site Premier Site $ 32 $ 40 $ 45 BANNER, RETREAT & PREMIER Sites are determined by the distance between the sites. RV rates are 2-person & include water, electricity, sewer hookup & basic cable. $3.50 per day for each additional person above age 3 Limitations on Animals: Maximum of 2 Dogs Discounts : Good Sam, AAA, TACO (Texas Saver Card) or Gulf Streamers - 10% discount on each night's RV site price. All Membership/Discount cards must be presented prior to check in. Cards must be valid & up to date. Deposit : 1st night's RV site rate will be charged to your credit card when reservation is made. Cancellation : Deposit will be refunded less $10 non-refundable cancellation fee if 24 hour notice for daily/weekly reservations or 7 days notice for monthly reservations is given. Propane BBQ grills available for use in the pool area for $5. Note : When making a reservation, you may request a site number, but we do not guarantee the requested site. We do our best to meet all requests. RV Sites - Weekly Banner Site Retreat Site Premier Site $ 210 $ 2 60 $ 2 95 Deposit: $50.00 will be charged to your credit card when reservation is made. Cancellation: Deposit will be refunded less $10 non-refundable cancellation fee if 24 hour notice for daily/weekly reservations or 7 days notice for monthly reservations is given. No discounts are accepted on weekly rates. Note: When making a reservation, you may request a site number, but we do not guarantee the requested site. We do our best to meet all requests. BANNER, RETREAT & PREMIER Sites are determined by the distance between the sites. RV rates are 2-person & include water, electricity, sewer hookup & basic cable. $3.50 per day for each additional person above age 3 Limitations on Animals: Maximum of 2 Dogs RV Sites - Monthly Banner Site Retreat Site $ 450 $ 490 Deposit: $100.00 will be charged to your credit card when monthly reservation is made. Cancellation: Deposit will be refunded less $10 non-refundable cancellation fee if 24 hour notice for daily/weekly reservations or 7 days notice for monthly reservations is given. No discounts are accepted on monthly rates. Note: When making a reservation, you may request a site number, but we do not guarantee the requested site. We do our best to meet all requests. BANNER, RETREAT & PREMIER Sites are determined by the distance between the sites. RV rates are 2-person & include water, electricity, sewer hookup & basic cable. $3.50 per day for each additional person above age 3 Limitations on Animals: Maximum of 2 Dogs All rates subject to change. Check In: 1 pm or later Check Out: 11 am , Central/Standard Time Cabins Cabins (sleeps four persons) $ 95 Daily $ 495 Weekly Deposit : $25.00 will be charged to your credit card when cabin reservation is made. Cancellation : Deposit will be refunded less $10 non-refundable cancellation fee if 24 hour notice is given for cabins. Note : When making a reservation, you may request a cabin, but we do not guarantee the requested cabin. We do our best to meet all requests. Cabins must add 16.875% hotel occupancy tax. Click here for more information on the cabins . Tenting Tenting Sites $25 Daily $150 Weekly Deposit: $25.00 will be charged to your credit card when reservation is made. Cancellation: Deposit will be refunded minus $10 non-refundable cancellation fee if 24 hour notice is given for tent sites. All of our tent sites are 2-person rates & include water, electricity & basic cable. $3.50 per day for each additional person above age 3. Our beautiful tent sites are nestled among the RVs with lots of trees & vegetation. If you are traveling with a friend in an RV, you could even be right near them! 2 Weeks Maximum in Tent Sites Home | Amenities | Directions | Rates & Info | Cabins | Contact Us / Reservation | Resort Map San Antonio | RV Links | Rules | Advertisers | Resources

Motor Coaches by Brands

Used Motor Coaches for Sale, PPL Motor Homes, 1-800-755-4775 Home | RVs for Sale | Sell Your RV | RV Insurance | RV Parts | About PPL | RV Service | Map | Contact PPL Motor Coaches by Brands & Models Last Updated January 24, 2006 Click Here to go to Main Used RV Menu Click Here to Learn How to Sell Your Motor Coach Quickly and For a Fair Price Click Here for Information on RV Prices Books and Other Pricing Tools If are thinking about selling your Motor Coach, click on the button to the left and request the free booklet " Nine Steps to Selling Your RV"... Avoid Common Mistakes . These tips and "no-nos" could save you thousands and help you avoid the headaches when selling your RV. Bluebird Motor Coaches American Eagle Motor Coaches Beaver Motor Coaches Champion Motor Coaches Damon Motor Coaches Executive Motor Coaches Firan Motor Coaches Hawkins Motor Coaches Monaco Motor Coaches Overland Motor Coaches Newmar Motor Coaches Safari Motor Coaches Tradewinds Motor Coaches Winnebago Motor Coaches Pictures, Floor Plans, Prices and Details View pictures, floor plans, prices and details on all of the 163 RVs now forsale at PPL Motor Homes...The Largest RV Consignment Dealer in the USA. Clickhere to view a Complete List of Used RVs for Sale. Check out the large selection of great values on these used recreational vehicles currently on PPL's Huge RV Consignment Lot. Sell Your RV Quickly and for a Fair Price RV Owners all over the USA are discovering PPL Motor Home's No Hassle Consignments. PPL has sold over 16,500 RVs for individualowners since 1972. Click and find out why PPL's unique RV Consignment Program is better than Motor Home Classifieds . Experience the No-Hassle way to sell Diesel Pushers, Motorhomes, 5th Wheelsor Travel Trailers. Selling your vehicle is not a side line at PPL...it's whatwe've been doing since 1972. We do not sell any new RVs as this could distract us from our focus on selling your consigned unit. The right asking price is critical for you to get the top dollar for yourunit. Our Free appraisals are based on the experience that comes with selling over 16,500 consigned RVs since 1972. The information at the above link will help explain why PPL Motor Homes hasgrown to be the largest RV Consignment dealership in the USA. PPL Motor Homes 10777 Southwest Freeway (Highway 59 South) Houston, Texas 77074-9829 713-988-5555 1-800-755-4775 Hours: 8-5:30pm Mon-Fri 9-4 Central Saturday PPL Home | RVs for Sale | Steps to Buy | Sell Your RV | Insurance RV Parts Superstore Home | Service | About PPL | Photo Tour | Contact PPL PPL Motor Homes Houston, Texas All Rights Reserved, 1997-2006

Used Motor Home

RV.Net Open Roads Forum: Buying A Used Motorhome Some Thoughts For First Time Buyers Already a member? Login here . If not, Register Today! | Help Newest | Active | Popular | RVing FAQ Forum Rules | Forum Help and Support | Contact Search: Advanced Search Search only in Class A Motorhomes Jump to Forum Recreational Vehicles - Camping Van Conversions - Class A Motorhomes - Class C Motorhomes - Fifth-Wheels - Folding Trailers - Hybrid Travel Trailers - Travel Trailers - Truck Campers - Toy Haulers Camping - Tent Camping - Family Camping - Workamping Forum General Forums - Beginning RVing - Rallies, Shows and Gatherings - General RVing Issues - RV Lifestyle - Full-time RVing - Camp Cooks and Connoisseurs - RVing with Disabilities and Ge... - RV Pet Health Technical Resources - Towing - Tow Vehicles - Dinghy Towing - Technology Corner - Forum Technical Support - Tech Issues Locations - Campgrounds, Resorts and Attra... - Roads and Routes - Public Lands, Boondocking and ... - RVing in Canada and Alaska - RVing in Mexico and South Amer... - Snowbirds Other Discussions - Around the Campfire Open Roads Forum > Class A Motorhomes > Buying A Used Motorhome Some Thoughts For First Time Buyers Reply to Topic | Subscribe | Print Topic | Post New Topic | Oldest first Newest first Page of 4 Next JohnnyT • View posts Goshen New York Moderator Joined: 07/15/2003 View Profile Posted:08/12/04 01:11pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Buying A Used Motorhome Updated 4/13/2005 Ok folks here is a start, I know that there is a lot of insight and experience out there so please post constructive suggestions so that we may have a comprehensive reference for those that are shopping for a used coach... There are several good reasons to buy used, one of course is that the big depreciation has already occurred and used often represent best value for the dollar.., It is also possible that the coach has some or all of the new coach maladies taken care of.. The other side of the coin is that you do not want to inherit some one else's headache... One of the first things to weigh in on is what trade off you will want to make on the age versus opting for a higher end model but older Motorhome.. Finding a coach that is a good match for your requirements and pocket book is not the biggest challenge. The big challenge is determining if the coach will deliver to your expectations. One last thing about buying used.. spend some time focused on what your recourse is if the coach has hidden defects... Get any verbal promises in writing. Buying used still requires balancing financial considerations with requirements and preferences as is discussed in this Thread In fact I would look on this post as an addendum to the other... Try to limit your compromising to matching your pocketbook and requirements not on the coaches you select from....Limiting your search to what is conveniently available locally may be expedient but the more broader you extend your search the more likely you are to find exactly what you are looking for......Regardless of how much you end up spending the amount will not be insignificant.. You would be well served to do some research on availability and the market price of where your interests take you... While not as straight forward as buying new it is possible to arrive at a pretty fair estimate of what to consider paying for the type of coach that interests you.. Prior to looking for a pre owned Motorhome it is still a good idea to nail down most of the same issues as you would if your buying new... .. Doing some research prior to actually shopping will give to the best chance of getting the Motorhome is the best match to your pocket book and requirements... Buying off the internet There are basically three types of sellers, established brick and mortar dealers that use the internet as a marketing channel, individuals, and EBay only dealers. In the case of the latter caution is strongly advised. We have had instances of eBay only sellers get on the forum and basically hype a unit for sale, basically these are shills, there is no reason not to expect that the bidding will also have shills at work bumping up the prices. Here is a thread with additional comments Buying From eBay Looking for used coaches on the internet will give you a wider selection than just shopping locally. You will also get a good sense for the range of asking prices. While the process is more convoluted via the internet, fax and phone you should be able to ascertain the condition via pictures and written descriptions. All expectations relative to condition and features and options should be reduced to writing as part of the agreement to purchase with the caveat that you reserve the right to have the coach inspected by an independent source and that your deposit is fully refundable should the coach not pass inspection or if there are inconsistencies between the written expectations and the coach. What to pay There are a number of factors that will affect what the best price will be.. Age, condition, features, and availability. You can do searches on RVTRADER and RVSEARCH to get a good approximation of what the asking price band will be.. You can also go to the NADA site and get the Low Retail, and Avg. Retail prices... From what I have been able to determine you can consider the asking prices on listed units as equivalent to MSRP, the same is to be said for the Avg price shown on the NADA site. The low retail price shown would be equivalent to the discounted or what the market value would be... The whole sale and trade in value is measurably lower. . If there is anything that will require expenditures to restore the unit to pristine condition that should be deducted from the Low retail price as listed in NADA. When using the NADA site it is appropriate to add in the optional extras, the dilemma is knowing what was optional and what was including as standard when the unit was sold as new... I recommend being conservative when adding the options onto the base price... A more indepth discussion on How To Determine The Fair Market Value of A Used Motorhome Check for any RECALLS Inspecting what you expect Not doing a comprehensive and thorough inspection is not a guarantee that you will buy a bad coach. Conversely doing a comprehensive and thorough inspection will not be an absolute guarantee that you will buy a trouble free coach... But the odds increase in your favor the more comprehensive and thorough the inspection is... The inspection process for a used coach needs to be much more comprehensive and thorough than buying a new coach.. You have to do all the things you would be normally doing for a new coach such as insuring everything works.. But in the case of a used coach you have to understand and calibrate the effect of use and time and understand the maintenance history as well.. A checklist and a note pad to record observations during the inspection process will insure that the inspection is thorough, systematic and that you will not lose track of what you find.. There are multiple areas that will need to be inspected.. The chassis and running gear including tires, suspension components, the house itself focusing on general condition, all of the added components such as air conditioners, refrigerator, heating, hot water heater leveling system and the like. Another area to be looked at as well would be the generator, batteries, and inverter/converter if applicable. Unless you feel comfortable as to your qualifications to perform a thorough inspection then you might want to get some help either in the form of a knowledgeable friend or hire a professional to do the inspection... You will need to inspect the wear components such as brakes and tires and the life span components such as shocks, suspension components, hoses, belts, seals, batteries and tires. If the coach has not been in continual usage there will be the added potential of problems with dry rot and compromised components relative to fuel delivery.. Particularly with gasoline engines... varnish can form in as little as 30 days of disuse of proper precautions have not been taken. You will also want to post questions and do searches to gain insight to any of the particular high probability areas of concerns that are unique or specific to makes and model years. Starting with the house, you will want to look for any signs of water leakage, delaminating, as well as roof condition and integrity. The doors ( including bay doors) should be inspected that they open and shut easily and securely, and that all the locking mechanism work. Windows seals should be inspected and in the case of dual pane window that the inner seal has not failed, any cloudiness is a red flag. You will want to insure that all awnings are in good repair by opening and stowing taking note of any signs of wear.. Awing should open and close easily, excessive sloppiness is another red flag. You will also want to insure that all cabinet doors and drawers will open and securely latch when closed. Check the alignment of interior doors.. Then if equipped level the coach and note any changes especially in the alignment of interior doors including the shower door. Significant changes when leveled should be a concern. Inspect the batteries for signs of bulging or corrosion. Inspect for evidence of routine maintenance Focus on know problem areas such as the auto brake if so equipped Diesel cooling system test for sign of electrolysis Air bags look for dry rot and signs of leakage Look for signs of dry rot on belts and hoses Run generator under load for a period of time difficulty in starting and surging is a red flag Make sure that the refrigerator operates and will cool in all modes Check the outlet temperatures of the dash and roof air conditioner If the unit is equipped with slides in addition to insuring that they will extend and retract check the alignment of the slide with the side of the coach when fully retracted.. Slider problems are often preceded by signs of miss alignment. when retracted the slide should look the same in reference to the coach opening on all four corners. While your at it learn how and then do the manual retract operation... Insure that the hot water and furnace are operating properly If possible get the coach weighed and match that against the GVWR rating to understand what your CCC will be. One last area to think about has to do with documentation such as Owners manuals wiring and plumbing schematics and diagrams... Make sure you get them...You will need them... Try to get as thorough understanding as you can about where things are... Have the person you are buying from demonstrate or explain dumping procedures, water system, winterizing... Knowing where all the fuses, switches, valves are located and what they do... may save you some headaches ... JohnnyT * This post was last edited 04/13/05 12:11pm by JohnnyT * View edit history Whupdeedo • View posts NE Ohio Senior Member Joined: 11/14/2003 View Profile Posted:08/12/04 01:40pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator An excellent post JohnnyT; we should save as a reference doc in this forum. I might add that my experiences have taught me to ignore coaches that were not used in the past year... Going by the old adage "Use it or Lose it", I've found lotsa great-looking used coaches that had real headaches because they've sat too long (brakes hanging up, exhaust rotted, unseen roof leaks/rotten wood, etcetra). Whupdeedo '04 BRAVE 34D charleegirl • View posts Williston, ND, USA New Member Joined: 02/29/2004 View Profile Posted:08/12/04 04:44pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Thank you for the excellent posts, I just looked at a used motorhome and really didn't know what to look for. This helped me alot. Timing was great! Charlee (found my camper) 2 adventurous girls (5 & 7) 1 rescue dog 89 Bronco graypreach • View posts Madison, WI usa Full Member Joined: 12/27/2003 View Profile Offline Posted:08/12/04 06:07pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Johnny thanks......we've done tents, converted school bus, popup, and now class A.....but I printed your post to save if we get the itch to look/buy........thanks again for the time and effort.......dc & zz mpkmfl • View posts USA New Member Joined: 08/04/2004 View Profile Posted:08/12/04 06:41pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Thank you so very much. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Buying used and this has come at just the right time. mpkmfl Michael 2000 Nu-Wa HitchHiker Premier 35 1/2 LKTG - $38,900 Contact Seller Look no further! This coach is in showroom condition! Must see!This 36.5 ft. overall, triple slide 5th wheel is truly set ... more details nixiejen • View posts Pgh, PA, US Senior Member Joined: 08/16/2004 View Profile Offline Posted:08/17/04 10:16am Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Thanks for all the sound advice John. This OLD PARATROOPER (48 yrs young) never thought he'd be back runnin around in the woods but I want my son to experience all the beautiful things mother nature has to offer. Kinda makes ya appreciate the simple things in life more, Hasta la Vista, Baby !!! GO STEELER"S Hey, by the way anyone out there belong to ROARING RUN RESORT here in PA. Look forward to seein ya there. Happy Trails to You, GO STEELERS!!! "A Stranger is just a Friend that you haven't met yet" "All Gave some, Some Gave All, Let Us Not Forget" Rich Nix-(Nixie) Pgh, PA USArmy Retired (1st Infantry-82nd Airborne) NALC Letter Carrier, Retired (nixiejen6@hotmail.com) Jenn- RJ & Kelsey 3 Dogs- Tigger Casey Bandit 89 Southwind 65K 33' golfman59 • View posts Tampa, Florida USA Full Member Joined: 03/09/2004 View Profile Offline Posted:08/26/04 10:19am Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Just absolutely awesome insights Johnny. I agree with what someone said that these articles should be kept in a separate forum for reference only. This would be helpful in that you wouldn't have to "weed" through a lot of individual replies if you don't have the time. One additional thought would be: for a given budget, should one look at an older diesel or a newer gas rig. What are the Pro's and Con's? samsnet • View posts Discovery Bay, CA USA New Member Joined: 12/05/2003 View Profile Posted:09/13/04 12:26pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Hi hope this isn't to late a response. I have a 1999 Dolphin 5370 (Gas) and can tell you that this truck is a great driving Motorhome. Now the Tradewind Model 7390 would be heavier since it's 2' longer and a Diesel. I looked at all of the National Products Tradewinds, Tropical, Dolphin and Seabreeze. All of these coaches are basicly the same. Tradewinds being the top of the line and Seabreeze being the entry level. You can get the Tropical in both Diesel or Gas depending on the Model Year. Pay attention to the advise about how much room do you have when the slides are in. My model is fully usable with the slide in. ( I don't have a bedroom slide) Can you get to the Closet when the slide is in (without crawling over the bed). Can you get into the bar cabinet with the slide in? Can you use the Coach as a bed with the slide in? I chose Gas over Diesel because of cost. Initial and upkeep. Price an oilchange for both. and now that Diesel fuel cost more then Regular, I'm glad a got Gas. SamS sam@samsnet.net apetit • View posts between here and there Full Member Joined: 09/12/2004 View Profile Posted:09/13/04 12:58pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator Having just gone through this, I would add: Go through the motions of throughly cleaning the coach. Look behind stuff, under things, where the sun never shines. You might be surprised, and possibly dismayed, at what you find. Unfortunately I learned this by truly cleaning a used MH AFTER I bought it. anthony clintb439147 • View posts norfolk, nebr, usa Full Member Joined: 08/08/2004 View Profile Posted:09/28/04 08:48pm Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator what you need to look at is how tall the mh is and does it have duals on back and how wide it is , i drive a bus school and greyhound type , school bus are dp and not as tall as coach bus, wind is stronger on the larger coach buses , more space to be pushed around. we have lots of wind on the plains and you get used to driving in strong winds and adverse weather conditions. Reply to Topic | Subscribe | Print Topic | Post New Topic | Oldest first Newest first Page of 4 Next Open Roads Forum > Class A Motorhomes > Buying A Used Motorhome Some Thoughts For First Time Buyers Search: Advanced Search Search only in Class A Motorhomes Jump to Forum Recreational Vehicles - Camping Van Conversions - Class A Motorhomes - Class C Motorhomes - Fifth-Wheels - Folding Trailers - Hybrid Travel Trailers - Travel Trailers - Truck Campers - Toy Haulers Camping - Tent Camping - Family Camping - Workamping Forum General Forums - Beginning RVing - Rallies, Shows and Gatherings - General RVing Issues - RV Lifestyle - Full-time RVing - Camp Cooks and Connoisseurs - RVing with Disabilities and Ge... - RV Pet Health Technical Resources - Towing - Tow Vehicles - Dinghy Towing - Technology Corner - Forum Technical Support - Tech Issues Locations - Campgrounds, Resorts and Attra... - Roads and Routes - Public Lands, Boondocking and ... - RVing in Canada and Alaska - RVing in Mexico and South Amer... - Snowbirds Other Discussions - Around the Campfire New posts No new posts Closed, new posts Closed, no new posts Moved, new posts Moved, no new posts Adjust text size: © 2006 RV.Net | PRIVACY POLICY | YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS