Used Motorhome Selection Criteria
There are many issues involved when considering purchasing a used motorhome. First and most importantly you don't want to be purchasing someone else's problem so you need to have as much knowledge as possible to make a correct decision, which means knowing what to look for. Some types of motorhomes have advantages over the others, and you will soon find out that certain floor plans will suit you and others will not work. Buying a used motorhome though, is for many people the only way that they will ever be able to own their dream. If you are a newcomer to the world of RV's then you are no doubt learning that the motorized used motorhome will fall into one of three main categories. 1. Class A - If you are looking at this type of used motorhome then you are looking at the top dog of the RV world. These are the largest and most luxurious of them all and they are often constructed on a specially designed truck chassis. They are often referred to as coaches or "diesel pushers" because their diesel engine is at the back. The big ones are not for the faint hearted as their length can be anywhere from 30 to 42 feet. 2. Class B Motorhome - this type of used motorhome is usually built from a conventional van to which a raised roof has been added. Often the floor will be lowered as well. They are often referred to as camper vans and they are the smallest and most compact of them all. Even though the living space is limited, they make up for it by their versatility and handling ability. Because they are either short or long standard van sizes they are often used as second vehicles. 3. Class C Motorhome - these are often referred to as the mini-motorhome but can still stretch to 31 feet in length. They are generally constructed on a larger van chassis with the driver compartment similar to a van. They are conspicuous by the standard sleeping bunk above the cab. Before you take the plunge and purchase your used motorhome, you need to identify a few issues that will hopefully help you with your choice. 1. How often do you intend to use your motorhome? If you intend to go on the road permanently your needs are going to be far different than someone who is going to grab a weekend here and there and maybe one annual vacation. Most people who intend to live permanently in their used motorhome will choose a Class A which is large enough to provide all the comforts of home. 2. Diesel or gas engine? On a used motorhome, buying one with a diesel engine may be the best option because they will always outlast gas, and they generally have much more robust transmissions, power and loading capacity. 3. Storage areas? How much space do you need to carry all the materials that you need, i.e., water hose, outdoor table and chairs, shovel, grill, plus all the items of clothing, food etc. Storage spaces are usually on the outside as well. Do you need places for bicycles or canoes? 4. What condition is the holding tank in? On a used motorhome this may require maintenance. They should also be easy to access and to empty and be in good condition. 5. Where will you be staying? Do you need to carry water, batteries or generators or will you be staying at parks with full hookups? These are just a few of the more obvious issues that need to be addressed before you decide on a type of used motorhome. As you will soon find out when you begin searching there are a plethora of different used motorhomes for sale either via the internet, the used motorhome dealers and private sales listings in RV magazines, local papers etc. Unless you are really sure about what you need it is going to be very easy to be seduced by a good looking outfit and a slick salesman. Small problems become very irksome when you are away for weeks at a time, so naturally it is best to try and avoid them.
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