User Tools

Site Tools


rv:assessment

This is an old revision of the document!


Assessing an RV for possible purchase

title and registerability

The first

Condition

The general advice on the CRVL forums is to buy on condition first.1)

rust

Phybere, discussing Ford vans, says this about rust:

“The spot to check on these is on the rear suspension, where the leaf springs attach to the body (the shackles). If something rusts off, that's gonna be first. There will be rust, but in general it's fine if the rusted thing isn't rotten/flaking apart.”2)

Miles

Your assessment

Mechanic's inspection

If the vehicle still interests you after the above it is time for a pre-sale inspection.

The potential camper is taken to a preselected mechanic (who knows you're coming!) to have it professionally inspected. This usually takes less than an hour and costs $50 - $100.

If the seller balks at the inspection you might sweeten the deal by offering to provide him with a copy of the inspection. This will reassure him you are honest and give him something to show other buyers if you decide to pass. If the seller still won't allow the vehicle to be inspected it may be safest to assume they are hiding something about the vehicle's condition.

On new or nearly-new vehicles the mechanic may find nothing interesting. On older vehicles there will generally be work needed immediately or at some future time ; the mech will be able to ballpark the costs of the needed repairs.

non-local vehicles

If the vehicle is not local to you, consider asking a forum member who lives in that area to lay eyes on it for you. It won't be an inspection but can give you an idea whether or not to buy a bus or train ticket to see it for yourself.

There are also RV and Vehicle inspectors who will travel to the vehicle to inspect it. The price is generally higher and they will not be able to lift the vehicle onto an overhead rack for thorough underside inspection.

calculating an offer

rv/assessment.1503010706.txt.gz · Last modified: 2020/10/11 19:48 (external edit)