BigBri
Maple Ridge, BC Canada
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Joined: 08/17/2003
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I am looking for a good used Class C motorhome between 21 and 24 feet.
I will probably buy one between the years 1980 and 1987 because of the cost.
My main concern upon looking at used motorhomes is the possibility of buying one that leaks and is full of rot. I plan on getting a mechanic to inspect before buying.
Is it a bad idea to have a motorhome sit outdoors with no shelter during the winter. Will this cause the motorhome to rot with the winter weather and it being exposed to it.
I live on the west coast of Canada where it does not get that cold, but it does rain and rain alot during the winter.
Would love to hear if anyone can guide me with this question and any ideas of what type of Class C they have and would recommend buying.
Thanks
Big Bri
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hud3ma
N. Cen. PA via Ware, Herts, England, UK
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Joined: 12/11/2002
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Way too much question for me to address all of it but here's what I think...
A class C of the vintage you indicate is likely to have been constructed using a wood frame, fibreglass batt insulation and lapped siding. None of these was conducive to a long service life. Wood rots and develops loose joints; fibreglass batting holds water like a sponge once it gets wet and lapped siding developed loose seams over time.
Unless the roof was an early rubber version, it probably requires regular sealing which, if not done and done correctly, will develop leaks.
Letting an RV sit in the weather is no different than driving it around in the same conditions. In fact, it's probably less harmful because there's no temperature difference between in- and outside to create condensation inside. There is also no constant air movement forcing water into horizontal openings. If it is properly winterized and doesn't leak, only normal weathering will occur. Obviously, even weathering won't occur if the rig is kept under shelter, but few of us can afford to do that.
Mike & Karen
...and Ziggy, the Golden Retriever
2002 THOR (Dutchmen) 25' Class C w/slide
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A100
Gainesville FL
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Joined: 07/27/2003
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Once I started looking at "classic" class c's, I noticed that water damage was a major problem with alot of them. I was able to find a 78 American Clipper that uses an all fiberglass shell. There are other brands that use all glass shells.
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CO_Vic
Lakeville, MN
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Joined: 01/24/2002
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Big Bri,
I would strongly suggest 2 things. First, look into a Lazy Daze. They are built with aircraft aluminum, even in the early 80's, have a reputation for not leaking and are well built coaches that stand up very well against time. To learn more about these, join the yahoo Lazy Daze group:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/lifewithalazydazerv/
The other suggestion I would have for you is to join the RV Consumer Group (www.rv.org) or just buy the book about buying and inspecting used RV's.
Good luck in whatever you choose,
Victor
'91 Lazy Daze 26.5MB, HWH Levelers, GearVendors, K&N, Bilstiens, Flow Master Exhaust
Wife, 2 sons (8 & 11), 4 Canaan Dogs.
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ekal
ca.
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Joined: 08/05/2003
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Look no more. I have a 22ft. 1989 Lazy Daze that I will sell if you are interested. In brief it has a new 4000 KW Onan generator and new 3 way refig. and 6 new tires, new brakes and fluid, wheel brearing greased and with a strong Chevy. engine. Rear living room floor plan fully self contained and in great shape inside and out. Exterior still is shinny. Drives like a van and get 10 miles to the gallon. To numerous things to tell you about, but if interested I WILL DISCUSS THIS FURTHER. I have to give up M. Homing because of age and loss of wife. I live in the SAN DIEGO area. Get in touch by e mail ----- kinged@sbcglobal.com
Good Luck !!!
edk
1996 19 ft. Terry Expo.
2005 Toyota 4x4 V/8. 4 Runner Limited.
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Sea Dog
Ontario Can.
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Joined: 04/15/2001
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As you are in Canada,take a good look at Travelaire.
The workmanship and quality makes them almost trouble free.
Take care.
Life is short,Death is long,
Take a vacation.
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