Getting my first camper/travel trailer

[Austrian Hunter]

Hi all,
I need your help.  I am getting my first camper/travel trailer a used 2005 Fleetwood RV Prowler 240BH.  What do I look for before signing the papers??  This is my first, my first time owning one and going camping in one.  Any tips or anything you think I should be cautious of please let me know.  Thanks!  WHat does 240BH stand for 

[Fishing Fool]

I nspect the frame very carefully where the spring brackets are attatched.........

[et1702]

 
240BH is the model number.  Typically, the first couple numbers are the length of the trailer.  BH probably has to do with how the interior is laid out.  Check refrig and other mechanical.  Fridge in trailers are $1200, plus install.  Mine in my 1995 trailer went out just before archery elk season last year.

ET

[jeepasaurusrex]

24' Bunk House model.

[Austrian Hunter]

Ahhh, thanks Guys!  That confirms it.  I will look very careful on the frame and also been told to look for water damage.  Any other tips are greatly appreciated. 

[Austrian Hunter]

Here is a pic of the exterior.  Does anyone know the dealer Russ Dean in Pasco?? 

[rasbo]

Ahhh, thanks Guys!  That confirms it.  I will look very careful on the frame and also been told to look for water damage.  Any other tips are greatly appreciated.

take somebody that dont want one with you to look at it...look inside the window sills for moisture,check all lights and battery system...Make damn sure everything works,use the pump,look for cracks in the shower floor..turn on the heater and make sure it blows hot air....open and shut the awning.....

[JohnVH]

check under, check for soft spots anywhere in the floor, ceilling, walls, etc. Look at the seams on the outside.

[smdave]

If you do not have your hitch yet, look for a used one 1st. It will cost you $700.00 at the dealership.

Here is just an example of one.


EAZ-Lift 10,000lb adjustable Trailer Hitch - $225

EAZ-Lift Trailer Hitch
 
*10,000 lb adjustable "sway control" EAZ-Lift Trailer Hitch
 *2" Ball and Sway-Control Ball included
 *Reese adjustable 'Friction Sway Control Bar'


http://seattle.craigslist.org/skc/rvd/2957719809.html

[jeepasaurusrex]

I just sold one of those for $150......

[smdave]

Yes they are almost worth more as scrap on the used market.

I will give you a good deal on mine but I am in the Everett, Marysville area. Sounds like you are on the east side.

[Bofire]

All good advice, take it camping for a weekend??? ask them. You are gonna need a good hitch and brake anyway. Owners manuals for all the stuff?? trailer, fridge,AC, appliances? How are the tires. LOOK FOR LEAKS
Carl

[300rum]

I will second the tires.  The tread means nothing, year of manufacture is what you are looking for.  Those tires could look brand new and be 8-9 years old. 

Like someone already said, the fridge is probably the most important thing, those things are expensive!

I always want to know if it has been "lived in".  I don't worry about a trailer that was used a few weekends here and there but I would stay away from one used by a contractor who used it to live in or something like that.  They really aren't meant for that type of use. 

[CAMPMEAT]

Buy an extended warrenty, split the cost or have them throw it in to seal the deal. I did, and it's well worth the money. Have them explain to you EVERYTHING that is covered under it. It's the only purchase I've ever bought with a vehicle. Trust me, it's well worth it since dealers charge nearly
a $100 an hour for labor.

[HntnFsh]

 Pull the bottom drawers out and anywhere else you can look at and smell the floor that is next to a wall. Sniff around for any musty smells. If it has any I would walk away.

Look at every square inch of metal roof and siding for any electrolisys.If any at all.Even a tiny spot.Walk away.It will spread.

Look around all the windows and doors for a good seal.Inspect everything on the roof for a good seal.If there are any cracks in the sealer around any vents,a.c. etc. Make them reseal the whole thing.

Check any and all walls floors etc for soft spots.Especially in the bathroom and under any sinks. If any. Walk away.

Look the ceiling over closely.Inside every cabinet etc. For water stains. If any.Walk away.

Look at the metal on the sides.Ae there any odd bulges or sags in the siding. If so.Walk away.

When trailers and campers get leaks.They rot and ruin fast.
If I suspected an iota of water damage.You know eaxctly what I would do. WALK,Well maybe RUN away.