Examine the Hitch
The only way to know for sure all the wiring works is by hooking it up. Therefore, you need to hook up the travel trailer and all the wires. Then check the brake lights, signal lights and reverse lights. If the owner won’t let you hook it up, then walk away.
Before buying any motor home, you need to make sure it is safe to drive. If the lights don’t work or if you can’t check to see if they do, then it is not safe to take on the road.
Examine the Tires
The condition of the tires is a major safety issue. Besides checking the tread, you need to check the age of the tire as well. On the side of all travel trailer tires is a stamp letting you know when it was manufactured.
The first two numbers represent the week they were made. The last two numbers represent the year. For example, the numbers 1409 means it was made in the 14th week of the year 2009. Therefore, it was manufactured in March 2009.
RV tires are manufactured to last six years. Even if the tread is good, a tire malfunction could occur after the six-year point. Therefore, it is recommended to replace any tire six years or older.
Check for Water Damage
The first thing you want to look at is the ceiling. A discoloration of the ceiling or wall indicates a water leakage. You also will need to check the roof for signs of excessive sealant, which could mean a leak repair.
Next, check all the cabinets for sign of leaks or water. Ideally, you want to do this after the trailer has been running a while. Therefore, ask the owner to turn it on and have everything ready for when you show up. The trailer should be cool and the refrigerator should be cold. If not, then you need to find out why it is not working.
Travel Trailer for Sale by Owner at RV Dealer
Of course, the simplest method to buy a travel trailer is from a RV dealer. Some RV dealers will sell the trailers for the owner on consignment. This will be your simplest and most practical way to purchase a used RV.
For more information on New or Used Travel Trailers, contact Tom Sylvester at tsylvester@beaudrymotors.com or by phone at 1-800-860-0281. Or visit Beaudry RV at http://www.Beaudryrv.com/
