The RV/Camping/Trailer Thread!

[Random]

Since tsg is looking for an RV, and I'm a teardrop fan (but not owner), plus campers are kinda neat.

Really cool Ford Transit conversion (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KjbTgJ3V-M)

[novicius]

For fans of well-engineered-but-ugly, there's the Cricket (http://tinyhousetalk.com/cricket-trailer/).

http://tinyhousetalk.com/wp-content/uploads/the-cricket-trailer-1.jpg

http://tinyhousetalk.com/wp-content/uploads/the-cricket-trailer-5.jpg

http://tinyhousetalk.com/wp-content/uploads/the-cricket-trailer-7.jpg


Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,460 lbs

[Cam]

I used to camp with style. :rawk:

Except for the one with the building under construction behind it. Worst campground I ever stayed in. Highway on one side and train tracks on the other.

135136137138

[thesameguy]

I really like the Crickets. There's an RV store not far from here that sells a few of the smaller trailers, including those Crickets and the cool Safaris. I think it'd be a neat thing to have - but nowhere approaching $20k neat. Unless I was inexplicably compelled to camp in really inhospitable places, I'd take a tent and a sleeping bag any day of the week. One Saab and what fits in back has always done me fine!

[novicius]

I'd rather spend $6,000 on a more traditional 13'-15' travel trailer. Those do also come with toilets, don'cha know? ;)

Just grab your hot glue gun and gypsy-it-up in preparation for Burning Man. :D

[Random]

Yeah, I suggested that he tow a trailer with the F eetwoo . He didn't like that idea for some reason? :?

[Mirage]

I prefer tent camping at this point, but I wouldn't say I rough it. My Eureka has handled monsoons without a leak so far, has good ventilation/airflow even with the rain fly and handles a queen air mattress with room for 2 duffle bags down the sides. I can pack nearly all my gear in one big action packer, which entails a good bit of GSI cookware and serving ware. I do want a bigger tent I can stand up in though, maybe one of the old school styled canvas ones like the Kodiak's.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/800x600q90/834/r30m.jpg

[novicius]

Yeah, I suggested that he tow a trailer with the F eetwoo . He didn't like that idea for some reason? :?
F-that, get the XR4Ti rolling, put a hitch on it and Mad Max this show to Burning Man! :hard:

Things to bring to trade with/give away:

Box of cheap sunglasses
Box of glow sticks
Box of plastic beads
Box of SKYN non-latex condoms
Box of water-based lube packets

Secure a full-sized spare to the roof of the Ti, get a couple cans of Dinki Di dog food (http://www.etsy.com/listing/126939223/dinki-di-dog-food-can-empty?ref=market) and eat all of your meals out of them, wear nothing but denim/leather/animal prints, maybe sport some assless pants -- y'know, just another typical weekend.

Also, bring a big rug, make sure the travel trailer has an awning or put one on, folding table, folding chairs, Christmas lights, mount a beer tap on the outside of the trailer, etc. Also-also, apparently people like anything that throws flames, so get the turbo to spit fire (when not towing). :D Gotta do it up right!

[tigeraid]

We bought a fixer-upper:

http://www.blinkerfluid.org/gtr2/index.php?dir=Pics/&file=002.JPG


http://www.blinkerfluid.org/gtr2/Odds%20And%20Ends/trailer1.jpg


http://www.blinkerfluid.org/gtr2/Odds%20And%20Ends/trailer2.jpg


http://www.blinkerfluid.org/gtr2/Odds%20And%20Ends/trailer5.jpg



1972 Corsair, 17'. Apparently, it's the largest camper trailer ever made with a single axle. I dunno whether to like that or not... And has those stupid VW-esque Fayette 4-bolt wheels I can't find anywhere.

Since the pics it's been upgraded with a large inverter and battery to run everything, which is nice. Only other plans are to get the water pump running, and maybe swap that axle to a common one. Tows real nice, despite the age.

And after:



http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj576/misticli/IMG_1983.jpg


http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj576/misticli/IMG_1998.jpg


http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj576/misticli/IMG_1993.jpg


http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj576/misticli/IMG_1991.jpg



My dad painted it by brush. :rawk:

[novicius]

Wow, he did a great job, Tiger! :up: :up:

To quote someone much more accomplished in life than I, retro travel trailers are rad. :cool:

[thesameguy]

I haven't ruled out a trailer yet, but the only thing that is rolling across the playa is a truck. I've seen cars coming back and I'm not interested in one of mine being one of them. ;)

I'm unsure whether I'd take the Suburban, or use my budget to buy both a trailer and a newer Suburban. ;)

The advantage of a trailer of course is that storage pre- and post- is far less of a problem (like, not a problem). The disadvantage of a trailer is that IT'S NOT MY DREAM TO TOW A TRAILER, DAMMIT!

:D

[novicius]

Never stand in the way of a man and his dream. ;) :up:

[thesameguy]

Exactly! :D

That said, I'd be really interested to hear about Tigeraid's refurb experience! What was done, how tough it was, etc. I am a man who likes options. :D

[Random]

If you search around http://www.tnttt.com/ there's the occasional "standy" refurb. Mostly smaller trailers, though.

Here's a basketcase refurb: http://www.retrorestoration.com/56shasta.htm

[thesameguy]

I wonder how much something like this weighs....

http://images.craigslist.org/00r0r_7uEtMMLMBXM_600x450.jpg
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4278578324.html

[Kchrpm]

http://www.spartantrailer.com/production.html

5000-6000 lbs

[thesameguy]

That's not much more than a dual axle trailer and a Saab! The Suburban could definitely handle that - although we might be back to the 25mph up hills. Meh.

All that aluminum makes me happy.

[Random]

It'll make your DA polisher happy.

[tigeraid]

It even has the original 1960s propane lamps! We don't use them though, cuz that would be crazy.


Exactly! :D

That said, I'd be really interested to hear about Tigeraid's refurb experience! What was done, how tough it was, etc. I am a man who likes options. :D


Sucked. But not terribly expensive. It had minor water damage from a leaky roof, so we cut out all the affected paneling and replaced it. Just cheap shitty wood paneling, I forget what it's called now, same stuff they use on the back of things like TV and stereo wall units. Just used that and some 1x4 strips to hold it all together.

All the upholstery was shitty 1960s daisies, like in the before pics. Tara is a good seamstress, so she just sewed up new covers for everything. We leave the front bed "up" to use as the table and benches, with the inverter hidden underneath one (the water tank will go under the other.) The rear is a "couch" normally but we leave it down as a bed, with like 10" worth of the foam mattress inserts.

It had a real toilet. A real by-goddamn-toilet, porcelain, with a plunger and all. We took it out and just replaced it with a chemical toilet though. The fridge and heater both run on propane and both work, though the pilot light on the fridge takes forever.

My Dad sealed the roof with some sort of fancy roof-sealing paint--that's already starting to peel. Gotta do that over.

[thesameguy]

Since you ripped out the water toilet, I'm assuming there is no other plumbing? Or is there? I know I sound like I'm obsessed with toilets. :lol:

[Random]

As you should be. There are really two reasons to have a trailer/RV/whatever, IMO: (1) no or minimal set-up/takedown, and (2) don't have to use a port-a-potty or pit toilet for your business. :D

[tigeraid]

Since you ripped out the water toilet, I'm assuming there is no other plumbing? Or is there? I know I sound like I'm obsessed with toilets. :lol:

It's still there, we just covered it. It ties into the main sewer pipe, which is shared by the sink. I have no grey water tank, since this was nineteen-dickety-two and god dammit, they just poured their shit on the ground!

[thesameguy]

Wow, seriously? So it's just a fresh water tank and then onto the ground?

[tigeraid]

Not even a fresh water tank, it just had a sink with the hookup for the garden hose to feed it, if you wanted. We have to ADD the fresh water tank.

[speedpimp]

TSG! (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1974-AIRSTREAM-ARGOSY-MOTORHOME-CAMPER-20-FOOT-REAR-BED-VERY-RARE-/291059901456?forcerrptr=true&hash=item43c485a410&item=291059901456&pt=RVs_Campers)

[thesameguy]

That thing is awesome! I wonder what it's like to take a dump in a 40 year old new toilet? Talk about a unique "first" to have on your resume!

[KillerB]

That looks super cool, and a handy size at only 20 feet!

[XHawkeye]

Few more options:

http://www.stovebolt.com/features/sagas/hamilton/rig.jpg

http://www.stovebolt.com/features/sagas/hamilton/index.htm
===========

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/821413/fullsize/p1010928.jpg

=====

Last & not least.

http://www.rv123.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/b7f43dc51d402b61dfcb34f4dc9fadcd.jpg

[thesameguy]

I have always liked fire trucks.......

I saw an old C-series on the freeway yesterday and started thinking how cool it'd be to build a camper onto the back of one. Sadly, that is WAY beyond my time, money, and capability. I sort of wish my friend was still unemployed, as he's a great carpenter and I'd happily flip him a few grand to execute the plan for me.. but he's not. Maybe next go-around.

Tangentially related: another friend of mine just started a single-client business picking up RVs from their factory and delivering them to California. Seems like a neat job to have for a while.

[Drachen596]

Speedpimp did that for a while TSG..

Ever watched the shows on Travel Channel called Extreme RVs? they showed one that was an 18 wheeler with the RV being the entire 53 foot trailer including a small garage space.

[Random]

Is that middle one kblackav8or's rig, XHawkeye?

[novicius]

That thing is awesome! I wonder what it's like to take a dump in a 40 year old new toilet? Talk about a unique "first" to have on your resume!
Heh, the toilet looked new to me.

[XHawkeye]

Is that middle one kblackav8or's rig, XHawkeye?

Yes it is, link to the C-C post: http://corner-carvers.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1002030&postcount=182

[speedpimp]

Tangentially related: another friend of mine just started a single-client business picking up RVs from their factory and delivering them to California. Seems like a neat job to have for a while.

Is he delivering trailers with a dually or is he driving the motor homes to the dealer? I did it for a month or so before I realized I didn't have the money management skills to make it last. Best of luck to your friend. My dream job would be delivering semis right from the factory to customers all over the country.

[thesameguy]

He is driving As and Cs them from the factory to a local dealership. It really does sound like a good gig - maybe not the best paying in the world, but a solid paycheck for seeing the country. I'm kinda jealous. Oh, and he has a "friend" that also happens to be super hot that wants to go with him. Sheesh.

[21Kid]

I always wanted to convert a school bus (http://www.schoolbusdriver.org/skoolies.html)

This one (http://gizmodo.com/this-architecture-student-converted-a-school-bus-into-a-1155859387)'s really cool!
http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/t_ku-xlarge/18x7uq90mqz72jpg.jpg

[thesameguy]

That is super cool. It's neat they didn't sacrifice practicality for privacy. It looks fun.

[Random]

The tricky part about school buses is that a lot of them are governed to ridiculously slow speeds. Plus, if you want underbody storage, you're engineering it yourself, since they don't have the factory storage that a highway bus has.

From an aesthetic point of view, there's not a lot you can do with the front-engined buses to make them not look like a converted school bus. :|

That said, there are a shit load of old school buses out there...

[thesameguy]

I wonder if there is something like a Gear Vendors reduction box for old school buses?

[Random]

I imagine you can find gearsets from the trucks that were built on the same chassis--assuming you want to fool around with changing the gears on a bus!

[thesameguy]

More of an idle wondering... I have zero intention of doing anything to anything I buy. :)

[Random]

Some good BM possibilities on c/l right now. A sampling:

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4303880313.html
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4305011795.html
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4300473195.html
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4301841893.html

Though I have a feeling that any of the largish 454-powered RVs are going to be slogging over DOnner Pass in low gear at 35mph with the hazards on.

[thesameguy]

Wow, that gives me great hope. Things were looking bleak a couple weeks ago, but maybe just holiday slowness. That Itasca seems about perfect - 31' is a little longer than I'd ideally want, but everything else is solid. I wonder what "deferred maintenance" on a 23 year old RV looks like? I also like that 23' one... a hybrid of the two would be perfect! :)

I really hope that Itasca is still around at the end of Feb... I think I would probably move on that. I'm just not quite risk tolerant enough to buy a rig without having a vehicle permit in my name. That would be a huge waste! Registration for BM tix is in two weeks, sale in three. I'm told we have an "in" because of our association with the happy couple - but I don't know what that means. I doubt it means a discount, but maybe it means not scrabbling for privileges. ;)

[Random]

OT and Because Davis: lady down the street is getting a PhD in Sociology with an emphasis in Burning Man. She and her current husband got married there last year. :)

[thesameguy]

I have gotten some sideways looks from people when I tell them I'm going, but drug-addled neo-hippies or no, the event is amazing. Erect a city of 60,000 people in a week or two and then tear it all down leaving no trace. It's nothing short of amazing. I wish I could take more time off to watch the entire thing go up and come down. My interest in drugs is only slightly greater than my interest in, say, Honda or Macs - my interest in Burning Man is, in a nutshell, the engineering and execution of the whole thing. I'm really excited!

[21Kid]

I think you'd have to get the Fleetwood and fix the badging.

I didn't realize that there are such good deals out there. :up:

[Jason]

Ever since my trip to Yellowstone last year, I've really, really, really wanted something Ford Transit to VW Eurovan sized as a camper conversion.

[FaultyMario]

You professional road trippers (I'm looking at you Mr. McGee and Mr. Ziolkowski) how important is it really to have a bathroom on wheels?

[Jason]

In the US, not as important as you may think, at least as a male. If you aren't being super active, you can go without shower for a few days, just wash your face and put on some deodorant, and don't step in bear shit. Bathrooms are easy, obviously. Fastfood joints, public restrooms, etc. And if you're out in the sticks, its pretty easy to get away with pissing and even shitting in the woods. Just be wary of other travelers and wildlife. As far as showers, not as common as bathrooms, but it's easy enough to get to one. Truck stops, rest stops, hostels, YMCAs, super cheap sketchy hourly hotels, etc etc... there's showers around. And if worst comes to worst, find a clean river and take a dip, if the water is warm enough.

[Kchrpm]

Or wait til it rains and stand there naked, screaming.

[tigeraid]

Wait hold on... Is your main reason for buying a camper trailer, is so that you can shit in your own toilet?

Ignoring the usual oddness of a phobia of public toilets...

There's far cheaper and less complicated ways to do that. Like a trailer hitch toilet, for example!

[FaultyMario]

I'm not buying one. I just wanted to know. In TSG's case though, he's gonna be sharing living space with other adults in a party environment. in the middle of nowhere.

[Random]

Female adults, specifically.

[Cam]

We (Lori and I) have no problem using public toilets. We enjoy sleeping in a tent. We've shit in the woods plenty of times. Having our own toilet is not important. We wouldn't mind having a camper-van.

[thesameguy]

Yep, I have no issue with public restrooms or shitting in the woods. In fact, the idea of taking an RV camping is anathema to me. I hate those people who shove their diesel pusher with satellite TV and a microwave into my quiet woods.

The particular (future) situation just happens to be a great intersection of wanting to experience a little RV living, and having a superb reason to do it. Although, I'm sure I will be surrounded by a bunch of people irked that I am shoving my beater Burning Man RV into their desert. However, a veteran friend of mine suggested Burning Man is intense enough (these days) the first time out, there's enough individualism to worry about without stressing about the survival or gifting aspects. Save that for later. Seems fair, especially after the crazy dust storms last year. Not sure I'm even remotely prepared to try and weather something like that in a tent.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/rf/image_606w/2010-2019/WashingtonPost/2013/05/05/Interactivity/Images/036860631367782862.jpg

[Random]

Might want some of these:
http://www.amazon.com/North-Safety-770030-Medium-Series/dp/B002D95K2O

[speedpimp]

SaniPottie! (http://www.amazon.com/Sealand-SaniPottie-Portable-Toilet/dp/B001EJRGYE)

[thesameguy]

You fucker! I clicked on that link and now Amazon thinks.... 222

:lol:

[speedpimp]

At least it wasn't a link to Tony Siragusa's Mantyliners.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSX-U67UULA

[thesameguy]

True, true. :D

[Jacee]

We bought a 19' fixer-upper ... had to tear down wall & ceiling in the bathroom, plus put in new flooring. It was totally worth it!
The 'fence' around the trailer is to keep our pups from running astray.

[thesameguy]

Some good possibilities... the time for action approaches!

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4293066400.html

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4312574390.html

Hmmm... throw this one in there too:

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4311750385.html

As long as Cs are on the list, a '90 350ci would be not bad at all. It'd be fuel injected, and probably get better mileage that a 454.

[thesameguy]

This has like 90hp. No joke.

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4305861679.html

[thesameguy]

These things are less rare than I thought. Interior certainly looks pretty nice, and I'm pretty sure I know someone who could do something neat with the outside...

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/rvs/4313995172.html

And on the subject of vintage RVs I really shouldn't even think about....

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/rvs/4313262602.html

[Random]

I wonder what the Revcon would look like polished up like an Airstream?

edit: are Cs on the list? I figured their cubeage deficit relative to an A had them off the list, particularly for someone looking for shower/pooper.

[thesameguy]

Yeah, they're a possibility... I've given up on having my cake and eating it too. A C will have less storage but equal functional space and will be cheaper to run/maintain - especially if tires end up being involved. At this exact moment, I care less about the details and more about available, reliable, and crapper. :D

I dunno what that Revcon would look like, but I keep thinking about it. I really want it. '75, smog exempt, and 455 connected to a TH425... what could go wrong?

[thesameguy]

Well, the Revcon is sold, so that solves that problem. ;)

[novicius]

We bought a 19' fixer-upper ... had to tear down wall & ceiling in the bathroom, plus put in new flooring. It was totally worth it!
The 'fence' around the trailer is to keep our pups from running astray.
Amazingly well done, Jacee! Very nice! :up: :up:

[speedpimp]

Definitely a C.

[Jacee]

Amazingly well done, Jacee! Very nice! :up: :up:
Thank you sir!! I appreciate you taking a look :D

[21Kid]

Nice work Jacee!

[Jacee]

Nice work Jacee!
Thanks!
We found this piece of crap on a "Craig's list" ad. Unfortunately, we paid more than it was worth (they were asking $1000 more, which we didn't pay), but we made the best of it, as my husband is a licensed electrician and plumber.
The best thing about this remodel, other than nothing leaks ... is the vinyl plank flooring that looks like the real stuff.
It took about 9 months for the reno, but it was totally worth it!

The guy who sold it to us, found 'pigeons', yep ... hope he has a ton more financial problems in the future for not being up-front and honest with other folks!!

[thesameguy]

Hmmm... quite tempting....

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4310646114.html

Slightly more than I wanted to spend, but also much newer than I've been looking at. '94 is quite modern. Perfect size, too.

[thesameguy]

Also:

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4324675845.html


If you are new to RV ing let me show you the ropes. We made a lot of happy memories in the Dolphin. You can too. By the way it finally did make it to Black Rock City, (I got the tickets) thank god for the Air-conditioning and black out curtains. The shower was worth everything.

:lol:

[thesameguy]

Had I twenty grand and probably 20 years, I would be all over this:

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/scz/rvs/4320501636.html

[KillerB]

I was going to say that it's puzzling that the Toyota has the 4-speed instead of the 5-speed, but then I figured with that brick on wheels, the 22R couldn't pull an overdrive anyway. Though if they put steep rear gears in it, it would probably work.

The Toyota looks like a good deal but I have no idea how durable they are. They always looked way overloaded to me, but maybe Toyota put heavier duty components under these than they did in the pickups.

[Random]

I like the concept of the Dolphin, and they certainly pop up on c/l frequently. If that's enough space, I'd got for that--I bet you could address the power deficit with a modern V6... ;)

googling around, sounds like the Dolhpins had some axle issues, so worth checking into that, tsg.
http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/files/Axle_FAQ.pdf

There's a website for everything: http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/index.htm

[thesameguy]

The only way I would drive a Toyota RV is if some of the chicks from the Wimmin thread - the ones with poorer judgment - came with it. Admittedly, it's probably as perfect a Burning Man RV as there is, I just refuse to have any part of it. 100hp. As if.

[Random]

A snail fixes everything. :hard:

[Random]

Hmmm... quite tempting....

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4310646114.html

Slightly more than I wanted to spend, but also much newer than I've been looking at. '94 is quite modern. Perfect size, too.

I assume L is handy with an upholstery needle? Floral barf! :lol: No pics of the bathroom...hmm.

I wonder if you can swap in the V10? :devil:

[thesameguy]

A snail fixes everything. :hard:

Except California smog... Plus, I'm not going to put that kind of investment into this. Get in, get out, get as much the original investment back as possible. That's the plan!

Upholstery is not a problem, but still, I'm not going to make any mods.

Now having said that, I reserve the right to make some investment in solar - but I probably won't do that. It's unlikely I'll be able to impact the energy situation in a useful way in 10 days.

[Random]

Inexpensive Dolphin on a later Toyota chassis: http://redding.craigslist.org/rvs/4331689390.html
More than you were looking to spend, but looks very nice: http://redding.craigslist.org/rvs/4332512582.html

[thesameguy]

Wow, that is nice! 23' is barely longer than the other Fleetwood! :lol:

I am wondering how important leveling is given what I intend to do with the rig... and, is leveling actually important for anything but occupant comfort?

Also, I had occasion to drive the Suburban the other day... I think I am about ready to strongly think about considering selling it. The foam in the front seat has about had it and weatherstripping is in a state of decay - it was awfully moist inside after the rains. I'm going to keep an eye out for newer 3/4 ton Suburbans, and possibly also lower mileage, similar year trucks that could be parts donors. I'm increasingly up for anything.

Hmmm... speaking of, I did have one other thought about towing, which is that a 20' long Suburban plus a 20' long trailer = 40'. That takes up a lot more room than, say, a 27' motorhome. I don't know what that really means, but I'm throwing it out there anyway.

[thesameguy]

2.2l French-powered 5-speed RV - http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4332445864.html (I'd seriously take this over a Dolphin just because it's interesting... :lol:)

This one is still for sale - http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4310646114.html - and I am still very keen on it. I think it's worth the money, but not worth that money to me right now. If they'd take less, I'd buy it. Maybe I'll suggest that this weekend. ;)

Edit: Although that '90 Dolphin really doesn't look bad at all.... hmm....

[Random]

Other issue with the JAMBOREE is the bed arrangment. I ASSuME that the dinette converts into the "main" bed, leaving the extremely awkward for reverse cowgirl overhead as the secondary bed?

My guess would be that levelling is promarily for comfort, unless you're looking at a severly sloped parking spot that would interfere with the proper plumbing flow?

[Random]

I saw the Le Sharo, too, but the pull-out shower made me :erm:.

[Random]

Here's someone that a) knows his audience (BM-goers) and b) can use a camera worth a damn: http://reno.craigslist.org/rvs/4287689288.html
Very polite: http://reno.craigslist.org/rvs/4332148574.html
Not the best bus conversion I've ever seen, but IT HAS MY NAME ON IT! http://reno.craigslist.org/rvs/4329792043.html

[speedpimp]

I remember browsing a site way back when that specialized in dropping GM 3.8 V6s into Le Sharos to help counter the underpowered problem that seemed to have plagued them.

[thesameguy]

Chrysler 3.3s! They're still in business.

lol @ russbus

[Random]

From the vintage campers facebook group:
https://scontent-b-sjc.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1743497_702732016435070_1400141912_n.jpg

Now imagine the bagged F eetwoo towing something similar... :D

[thesameguy]

That is fantastic!

The problem with the Fleetwood towing something similar to the Fleetwood is a real lack of headroom. :p

Tickets go on sale this Wednesday. Since I already have a confirmation I should be good to go, but in any case official RV shopping season commences this coming weekend. I'd like to time it so that the Benz is delivered to SoCal and PartsBenz is delivered to AUTOMOTIVE HELL before anything long shows up. ;)

RV hunting is going to be a new experience for me. I'm well versed on cars so buying a CTS-V on a whim really isn't that whimsical. Buying a Mercedes or a Jag isn't that mystical. It's going to be hard to retrain my motor vehicle shopping brain to really evaluate what it is I'm looking at and make some real, possibly important, decisions.

[Jason]

From the vintage campers facebook group:
https://scontent-b-sjc.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1743497_702732016435070_1400141912_n.jpg

Now imagine the bagged F eetwoo towing something similar... :D
I'd like this so much, if they weren't slammed to the ground. :up:

[thesameguy]

Airbags!

[Jacee]

Looks like they're meant to sit in one location and look "charming". C'mon folks ... this duo isn't about to travel! :P

[thesameguy]

Yo, dawg, I heard you like tail lights...

http://images.craigslist.org/01212_fXRs6MfEyLe_600x450.jpg

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lgb/rvs/4308676961.html

[thesameguy]

It's quite large, but I really like this rig.

http://images.craigslist.org/00C0C_7Abhmg47Fr7_600x450.jpg

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/rvs/4298193560.html

Been for sale for a long time which raises some questions - or maybe the ad is in CL limbo and it's in reality gone.

[Random]

31' isn't *that* big. Nasty rear overhang, but that's pretty common.

[thesameguy]

It's really interesting to see the wheelbase difference in trucks that are roughly the same overall size. That one has an overhang more like trucks 5'+ longer.

This is older than I'd planned on, but looks nice:

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/rvs/4339914031.html

Check out the weird double twin beds in back!

[thesameguy]

Two tickets and one vehicle pass acquired. Let the RV shopping commence!

[Random]

w00t! :rawk:

[George]

Yo, dawg, I heard you like Jeeps...

Jeep CJ5 CAMPER shell - $4500 (http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/4334698763.html)

http://images.craigslist.org/00101_ii9flq72z7m_600x450.jpg
http://images.craigslist.org/00000_48hThYqD738_600x450.jpg

[Random]

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4345287731.htmlIs that a built-in cassette holder on the center hump?


http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4340442870.htmlThis bus conversion is listed again. ;)


If you want to crawl up hills, how about this classic Slant-6 powered rig? http://redding.craigslist.org/rvs/4351222700.html

This one looks pretty nice, though the OR tags make me pause: http://redding.craigslist.org/rvs/4339436346.html

[thesameguy]

If that bus was a grand or two cheaper I would *really* consider it. I still really like the idea of a bus, but after all the "be careful of old commercial chassis vehicles" warnings I have received one of them would have to be really financially attractive for me to take that risk.

Also, why are there so many Cortez motorhomes suddenly for sale??? I think I mentioned it earlier, but those beasts are solid steel. They aren't aluminum or fiberglass or anything. They are made of metal. Not only is the /6 not a powerhouse, but it's moving like 8,000 pounds of steel in those things!

[KillerB]

Please tell me that bus has a 6V-71... :hard:

[speedpimp]

Looks like it's a V8 of some sort.

[Random]

Yeah, I think the 4106es had the 8V71.

[novicius]

I sold my '03 MINI Cooper S in a flurry of Craigslisting activity on Tuesday night. I eke'd about 153k and 7.5 years out of it, bought it for $17.5k and sold it for $4.5k with niggling misc electrical issues and growing rust on the hind end, so that's about... $175/mo. for usage (not including misc repairs and a new clutch). End of an era -- ah well, onward and upward!

Now I'm fully in the market for an '03-'05 Ferd Exploder 4x4 V8 to tow our future wee tiny camper! I was trying to go full Tahoe but the Exploders are a touch smaller and that swung the family vote to the Ferd.

[thesameguy]

IMHO, in that size range and with those goals, the Exploder is the better truck anyway. Much better road manners, better turning circle (IIRC), and a far more comfortable interior. I think the '03s are unique in that the V8 was all-aluminum, and then in '04 they went back to an iron block & aluminum heads. That's a recollection from my searches (that ended up with the Audi). Related, I'd highly recommend looking really hard at the Mountaineer. Obviously it's the same truck, but it brings the advantage of being able to rent from UHaul, which you can't do (period) with the Exploder.

Out of curiosity, is there any reason you're discounting the six? If you haven't driven one I'd recommend it - it really doesn't give that much up to the V8 unless you're pushing its load capacity. For anything up to several thousand pounds, I think the six would do you just fine and win some lower operating costs.

Edit: And don't forget about the Aviator... that would be a nice score!

[speedpimp]

Go for the Explorer Sport, you know you want it.

[novicius]

So today I picked up an '03 Ford Explorer XLT 4x4 V8 with 140,411 miles for $4800. One owner who has been very diligent in his upkeep and repairs, and has a manila folder an inch thick with all sorts of dealership receipts. He bought the rig new for $36k in 2003 -- and probably spent another $36k in service. :lol:

309

310
Fog lights, block heater, tow package, no 3rd row seat (underfloor smuggler storage instead) and a double-DIN with single CD & cassette. :lol: Weathertech floor & cargo mats throughout, Goodyears in good shape, and the leather is in fine condition save for the driver's side. The front license plate holder is battered and the fascia behind it looks scarred and beat-up; did he tap something? Rust is incredibly minor, mostly on the running boards. Some other light scratches here and there. Overall, for an '03 I think it's still a little '90's feeling inside but when I put my foot down, I know where my money went.


I think the '03s are unique in that the V8 was all-aluminum, and then in '04 they went back to an iron block & aluminum heads. That's a recollection from my searches (that ended up with the Audi).
Yep, the VIN indicates that I've got a workhorse Romeo 4.6L with (probably) 2001-2004 1L2E/2L2E Romeo PI Heads (rated at 239 hp and 282 lb·ft)-- but I did not know it has an all-aluminum heads & block, so that's cool. Also, I'm not entirely certain they have a better ride than a semi-modern Tahoe -- both Ford examples I've been in ('05 Mountaineer & this '03 Explorer) have 5 blown shocks each (the 5th shock is apparently attached to the axle & frame) so it's a bit of a wallowy wash at this point. New shocks and a brake job are the most pressing need on this truck right now.


Related, I'd highly recommend looking really hard at the Mountaineer. Obviously it's the same truck, but it brings the advantage of being able to rent from UHaul, which you can't do (period) with the Exploder.
Yep, that is still in effect and probably will be for life. Hilarious. Fortunately I have access to several non-Exploder SUVs if I ever need to rent a trailer from U-Haul. Also, as I mentioned above, I do have access to an '05 Mountaineer -- and it seems to have quite a bit more pep than mine does. I wonder why? Does the Mountaineer's viscous coupling AWD offer less drag than the ControlTrac 4WD system the Explorer came with?


Out of curiosity, is there any reason you're discounting the six? If you haven't driven one I'd recommend it - it really doesn't give that much up to the V8 unless you're pushing its load capacity. For anything up to several thousand pounds, I think the six would do you just fine and win some lower operating costs.
Don't want to deal with the old Cologne 4.0L V6. Also, I'm a fan of the "underdog" Mod Motor V8. Too late anyway. :D


Edit: And don't forget about the Aviator... that would be a nice score!
It was first on my list but I'd read about potential water-in-the-heads issues with higher mileage Mod Motor DOHC V8's -- and the added cost -- so that I didn't want to deal with it. The basic 2-valve'r V8 is fine for my uses. ;)

[Random]

So what're your specs for a wee trailer? Retro? Modern? Cheap?

[thesameguy]

So today I picked up an '03 Ford Explorer XLT 4x4 V8 with 140,411 miles for $4800. One owner who has been very diligent in his upkeep and repairs, and has a manila folder an inch thick with all sorts of dealership receipts. He bought the rig new for $36k in 2003 -- and probably spent another $36k in service. :lol:

Sounds like a win to me! :D


Yep, the VIN indicates that I've got a workhorse Romeo 4.6L with (probably) 2001-2004 1L2E/2L2E Romeo PI Heads (rated at 239 hp and 282 lb·ft)-- but I did not know it has an all-aluminum heads & block, so that's cool. Also, I'm not entirely certain they have a better ride than a semi-modern Tahoe -- both Ford examples I've been in ('05 Mountaineer & this '03 Explorer) have 5 blown shocks each (the 5th shock is apparently attached to the axle & frame) so it's a bit of a wallowy wash at this point. New shocks and a brake job are the most pressing need on this truck right now.

Over ideal pavement ride will be similar, but on anything worse and especially with people in it the IRS really shines. Don't get me wrong, GM did great things with the solid axle over time, but the IRS is, IMHO, a great addition for a family-oriented SUV. I guess the downside, though, is more moving parts that need to be kept up. ;) Meh - it's worth it when driving like an ass. :D


I do have access to an '05 Mountaineer -- and it seems to have quite a bit more pep than mine does. I wonder why? Does the Mountaineer's viscous coupling AWD offer less drag than the ControlTrac 4WD system the Explorer came with?

I can't see how... the same number of parts are ultimately in motion. Maybe yours just needs a tune up? Or a supercharger. :D Perhaps since the Mountaineer lacks a 2-speed transfer case, Ford gave it compromised mid-range gear ratios? I have no recollection of ever driving a V8 AWD Mountaineer, but I don't have a distinct recollection of the Aviator performing tangibly differently than the Explorer. :shrug: But, really, supercharge it.

[thesameguy]

Man, this:

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/rvs/4352604328.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00g0g_aR8E9NoJZ3c_600x450.jpg

and a new Suburban would be a nice setup. I'm actually kind of tempted to just go down there in the '84 and tow it back, just to have. Like, really tempted. It just seems like it's too good to be true.

[novicius]

Prolly a scam. :random:

[novicius]

So what're your specs for a wee trailer? Retro? Modern? Cheap?
Yes. :D

13'-17' aluminium or vinyl-sided travel trailer that sleeps 2-6 and has a galley & a potty. One that has been updated already or only needs fabrics (nothing in need of a full resto yet).

Like this: http://mankato.craigslist.org/rvs/4329473148.html

Stylistically outdated but clean and where everything still works.

[Kchrpm]

Looks like it was also posted on Craigslist in Philadelphia, but it's no longer up.

http://for-sale.yakaz.com/airstream-sovereign#lo=4&docid=000amgi0id0je5ai

[novicius]

I can't see how... the same number of parts are ultimately in motion. Maybe yours just needs a tune up? Or a supercharger. :D Perhaps since the Mountaineer lacks a 2-speed transfer case, Ford gave it compromised mid-range gear ratios? I have no recollection of ever driving a V8 AWD Mountaineer, but I don't have a distinct recollection of the Aviator performing tangibly differently than the Explorer. :shrug: But, really, supercharge it.
:lol:

This ain't the Thrillmachine in my stable, the Triumph is. ;)

Oh wait, I got that wrong -- it is an XLT. :) #nothingtoseehere

[George]

In Denver, just for comparison...

1984 Pace Arrow Motorhome - $3500 (http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/4353076844.html)

title in hand with 39,872 Miles on it

asking $3,500 O.B.O

has been parked for some time so it will probably be towed out.

needs to be remodeled since its very outdated.

http://images.craigslist.org/00303_6l1AstHPyhG_600x450.jpg

[thesameguy]

In Denver, just for comparison...

I've been wrestling with the prospect of an out-of-state rig. Since I don't plan on keeping this thing, I really don't want to put any effort into it, and that includes dealing with a smog hassle. Buying in state minimizes those chance, and in an ideal world (which would be buy August, sell September) I wouldn't have to even once. There are some nice rigs up in Oregon and it'd be a fun drive bringing it home, but because I don't know what I'm doing and don't want a money pit, I am trying to restrict purchases to California. :/

[thesameguy]

:lol:

This ain't the Thrillmachine in my stable, the Triumph is. ;)

It's not about thrills, it's about safety. If you end up getting chased, or need to jump a river when the bridge washes out, or the sickest burnout ever is all the stands between you and DEATH, you're going to want the comfort and security that comes with forced induction.

[novicius]

SUPERCHERGER. BECAUSE WISDOM. :rawk:

[George]

I figured you'd buy locally but happened to glimpse that beast this morning while serving up another portion of Colorado CL Craziness and figured every RV ad you see helps you get a feel for what things cost.

[speedpimp]

Yes. :D

13'-17' aluminium or vinyl-sided travel trailer that sleeps 2-6 and has a galley & a potty. One that has been updated already or only needs fabrics (nothing in need of a full resto yet).

Like this: http://mankato.craigslist.org/rvs/4329473148.html

Stylistically outdated but clean and where everything still works.

I think you have a winner. Leave the interior as it is, it's awesome.

[thesameguy]

I am almost convinced I am going to end up with a "Holiday Rambler." Every one I see looks to be in good shape, and I think all the '80s ones are aluminum frames. They also seem to make the 25'-30' models, which is exactly what I want.

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/rvs/4354564355.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00202_8cpg4AYHJrx_600x450.jpg

[speedpimp]

Would you need an auxiliary tranny cooler with that for the mountains?

[thesameguy]

I think for the worst case, yes, but since we tend to travel lightly (and we're only gone for a week) and we won't be towing anything it won't be a problem. If the thing was loaded down I'd definitely ensure a good cooler was installed.

Although, we might end up bringing a metric ton of water, so.... :)

[Random]

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4356070056.html

Why do I feel like "Fireball" is a description rather than a model name? :p

[thesameguy]

I think it might be a model name - there are actually two of them for sale right now!

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4350305003.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00r0r_7Gpr2YzP0U1_600x450.jpg

:lol:

I actually kind of like both of them. MUCH older than I was aiming for, but they both look to be totally decent.

[thesameguy]

I wish this wasn't quite so far away:

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/scz/rvs/4357095555.html

[George]

Sweet ride in the 303. Bring yo fat wallet!

Bug Out Vehicle / Off Grid Camper - $25000 (http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/4342944105.html)

http://images.craigslist.org/00A0A_jsbyBNgfgh0_600x450.jpg

http://images.craigslist.org/00T0T_iN1mD1qQdeS_600x450.jpg

http://images.craigslist.org/01111_6bXxKPfSHkw_600x450.jpg

[thesameguy]

Gah - $25k is laughable. Aside from the nice finish, I can't really see anything special about that truck. No 4WD and no shitter, to start. When the apocalypse comes and you need to bug out, are you going to want to stick to surface streets and sneak time at gas stations to relieve yourself? Where's the solar and the sink? Nice truck, but as an off-grid vehicle I think it falls quite short of the mark.

Plus, it's a Ford.

Zing.

[George]

I got yer shitter right here!

http://www.nationalcoatings.com/Portals/118964/images/Container%20-%205%20Gallon%20Pail.jpg

[thesameguy]

Also, I have basically come to the conclusion I am somehow going to need to spend a week in SoCal to buy my RV. There are mountains of exactly perfect ones down there, and relatively few up here.

1990 24' Class A - http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/rvs/4348729917.html
1983 24' Class - http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/rvs/4348714718.html (odd, but kinda charming!)
1989 24' Class C - http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/rvs/4354541632.html (heater doesn't work, who cares)
1995 29' Class A - http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/rvs/4358259095.html (looks AWESOME)
1989 30' Class A - http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/rvs/4351026558.html (also looks great

I'd take any of these, and these are just the last two days of postings. Maybe it's going to be a four or five day weekend involving dropping the Mercedes off and bringing home an RV with the PT Cruiser in tow, or something like that. Nothing seems like a better idea than making your first time behind the wheel of a huge truck a 500 mile trip with another 20' hooked to the back. :up:

[Random]

Stay out of backing situations and keep a close eye on your mirrors. :) What we did at Unitrans initially was point our flat mirrors at the rear tires and use the fisheyes for lane positioning. Later on, you can start using the flats for actually looking around you because you'll be able to track the rear wheels in the fisheyes.

Though, IMO, with these <30-footers, swing-out is the primary issue.

[Random]

I like the GMC Buffalo-esque hump on the Allegro. :D

[thesameguy]

Looks like that Allegro is gone already. I also enjoyed the humps!

I really want to stay under 30' - 26' is perfect. But at the end of the day I'm not going to sweat 4'.

[speedpimp]

What you really need is a Van Up and a 5th wheel trailer.
317

[thesameguy]

When I was a kid there was one of those parked in my grandmother's apartment complex and the thing fascinated me. She lived in Newport Beach, so there were Porsches, Mercedes, even a few Italians (I remember specifically a Maserati and a Pantera), but no, the Van Up caught my attention. Sheesh.

[novicius]

No 4WD and no shitter, to start. When the apocalypse comes and you need to bug out, are you going to want to stick to surface streets and sneak time at gas stations to relieve yourself?
Wait, do you need to be able to shit at speed? Or would trailer hitch toilet seat suffice? :lol:

[Yeti]

Whichever one you buy, make sure the engine from it can be placed into an awesome old muscle car when you're done RV-ing. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JXDcJQqZrA)

[thesameguy]

Wait, do you need to be able to shit at speed? Or would trailer hitch toilet seat suffice? :lol:

I think getting caught outside with your pants down in an End of World scenario is something to really, really be avoided.

[thesameguy]

Whichever one you buy, make sure the engine from it can be placed into an awesome old muscle car when you're done RV-ing. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JXDcJQqZrA)

That was awesome.

But no way, no how, am I going to take an RV apart.

[thesameguy]

5x BRC -

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4360721711.html

I wonder if it can get there by itself?

[Random]

Probably. :D Owner will probably have some insight into what really matters when taking an RV to BM, too. :)

[novicius]

Nice! :up:

[KillerB]

That looks like the one. Look at those seats!!!

[thesameguy]

I am really thinking about it. I was hoping for newer purely to get some fuel injection.... but considering my entire goal here is to drive somewhere in the neighborhood of 1000 miles, I'm not sure how important that truly is. The leaky roof is slightly worrisome, only because a long-term leak can turn into real damage quickly that may make it unsellable in the near future. Also, leaky master cylinder? That sounds ungood. Of course, I'm sure a master cylinder from an '86 GM van is not a big deal at all. I think I am going to go check it out this weekend.

[Yeti]

Probably needs a booster too.

[thesameguy]

Tend to agree... I think on a truck that old if I was doing one I would probably just go ahead and do them both - leaky MC makes me think "leading into the booster." I don't know what those parts cost, but they can't be that much.

[thesameguy]

Chevy Astro RV?

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/rvs/4362976279.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00i0i_8dkIMnWvCkj_600x450.jpg

It's like a domestic Toyota Dolphin!

[Random]

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4364266903.html
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4364203061.html <-- have to ask about shower/pooper
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4363540823.html <-- "desperate bathroom"
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4358516576.html <-- how cool is this?! Yeah, yeah, it's a project...
http://reno.craigslist.org/rvs/4344173890.html <-- looks really clean.
http://reno.craigslist.org/rvs/4287689288.html <-- the one with good pictures, still for sale
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/rvs/4364709680.html <-- another clean-looking one

[thesameguy]

That first one has been for sale for a couple weeks. I keep considering driving up to Auburn to check it out but haven't been able to put the time together. I might be able to do it Sunday, though.

I also really dig that old Chinook, but it's a) old and b) I'm afraid of "needs interior work."

I am still targeting an April/May purchase, but I really need to get out there and look at some of these in person, just to learn about the shopping process. I just really feel bad about wasting peoples' time, because at this point if I look at stuff I am definitely wasting time. There is no possible way I'd buy anything before investing a few solid weeks just looking at options. Er... where was I going? Oh yeah, that's what attractive about that first one - it looks nice and it's available for public viewing! :D

There are also two places over off El Camino that sell used RVs. I think nobody sells really used RVs, so I'd be inspecting trucks 5-10 years newer and $10k+ more than what I intend to spend, but I still might learn some stuff. Maybe just talking to a salesperson would be useful? I wonder if used RV dealerships give out test drives. Heh.

[Random]

There's a smaller used RV outfit renting lot space from 2Bennett at their new location in Davis, too. Much lower-end stuff than La Mesa down the street--they might be more interested in talking to you about the ins and outs of used RVs?

[speedpimp]

I'd check out that Astro.

[thesameguy]

There's a smaller used RV outfit renting lot space from 2Bennett at their new location in Davis, too. Much lower-end stuff than La Mesa down the street--they might be more interested in talking to you about the ins and outs of used RVs?

Excellent tip! Maybe I will add that to Sunday's mission. Maybe I will combine that with test driving the Mercedes and bringing you some speakers! :D

[thesameguy]

I'd check out that Astro.

I would were it not 400 miles away. I should stop looking for a month, but it's nice to see all the options. You know, I bave no recollection of how crappy the 4.3 v6 was back in '86... I'm assuming pretty bad, but combining my love for Astros with my need for an RV seems like magic, no?

[Random]

Excellent tip! Maybe I will add that to Sunday's mission. Maybe I will combine that with test driving the Mercedes and bringing you some speakers! :D

Lemme know! :)

[thesameguy]

I think we're on. I'll text you in the AM.

[KillerB]

GMC Motorhome in CA - no reserve (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1974-GMC-260-CLASS-A-CLASSIC-MOTORHOME-REAR-BED-SHOWER-KITCHEN-NO-RESERVE-/141215923435?forcerrptr=true&hash=item20e11ffceb&item=141215923435&pt=RVs_Campers)

[Random]

I think we're on. I'll text you in the AM.

Word.

[thesameguy]

Wow, and a pre-smog '74 too.... I am going to keep my eye on that one!

[Random]

Learn anything useful this afternoon?

[thesameguy]

Haha! Nothing! There was one person in Davis who quite literally knew nothing about anything, including their inventory. We actually split pretty quickly and drove up to the RV mecca of El Camino Avenue, where we found two more grossly understaffed stores. At the third, we learned there was an RV show at Cal Expo, and everyone was there.

:sadbanana:

We almost went to the show, but $12 entrance + $10 parking really seemed like it was going to eat into our budget and we skipped it. :p

All in all, today was totally unproductive, but I really enjoy driving the E around. :)

[novicius]

GMC Motorhome in CA - no reserve (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1974-GMC-260-CLASS-A-CLASSIC-MOTORHOME-REAR-BED-SHOWER-KITCHEN-NO-RESERVE-/141215923435?forcerrptr=true&hash=item20e11ffceb&item=141215923435&pt=RVs_Campers)
EM50 - The Original Urban Assault Vehicle? :up: :up:

339

[Random]

novi, that trailer group on Facebook could end up being seriously damaging to my bank account. :p :finger:

Lots of really neat stuff!

[novicius]

Hey, it spurred us to get rid of my MINI and buy a tow vehicle! :D

[KillerB]

Yeah, I'm glad my lack of storage keeps me from getting tempted.

[Random]

Been advertsed before, I think: http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4370776000.html
Solves your RV and excess car parking problems at the same time: http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4370072187.html ;)

[Random]

GMC Motorhome in CA - no reserve (http://www.ebay.com/itm/1974-GMC-260-CLASS-A-CLASSIC-MOTORHOME-REAR-BED-SHOWER-KITCHEN-NO-RESERVE-/141215923435?forcerrptr=true&hash=item20e11ffceb&item=141215923435&pt=RVs_Campers)

Only at $3500 with 5 hrs to go.

There's another GMC listed in the Sacto c/l for 10 grand.

[thesameguy]

Yeah, I'm just really scared of it. The people selling it couldn't be arsed to determine whether the original specs were still true, and a brief email conversation ended with "You come look, we aren't going to tell you a thing about it." I asked whether the generator, AC, and plumbing worked... :( I would love to take the risk, but I can't. Last thing I need is a 26' long failmachine in the driveway. Generators and AC are WAY too expensive even used to think about replacing given such a short ownership term. I would literally lose thousands of dollars.

[Random]

"You come look" <-- lame.

[KillerB]

Indeed, though at $3500, if a bunch of stuff didn't work, even if you spent $8k fixing it, you'd come out ahead when you sold it. Good ones of these seem to run $12k minimum.

[thesameguy]

I did some looking around, and the $12k ones are quite nice - solid runners at least. This one had body damage and was a complete unknown mechanically. If lucky, everything works and you can probably flip it for five grand with some patience, or put four grand into body work and flip it for $10k. If unlucky, it needs a new drivetrain, generator, plumbing, AC, electrical, and body work and you'll sink $30k and end up with a $25k rig. There are so many ways it could have gone really, really wrong. If the seller had been willing to give me the basics I would have driven down to check out the details, but IME someone who won't even tell you whether the generator works or not probably knows that it doesn't, so my $3500 GMC would have instantly been a $5500 GMC, and it still might not be drivable. It was just too big a risk.

[thesameguy]

Man, I thought I would look around the western US for other GMCs. Bus conversions are very popular in the PNW!

This is particularly cool:

http://seattle.craigslist.org/tac/rvs/4331423610.html

http://images.craigslist.org/01414_difAu86HM3C_600x450.jpg

[Random]

Those are neat. Everything about those older GMs moves a little slower and is a little heavier than the later buses.

Drove this one and its sibling--these were later models, '58, with a mighty 6V71 and the same (or similar) two-speed.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/77/Unitrans_4508_at_Surge_III_-_cropped.jpg/640px-Unitrans_4508_at_Surge_III_-_cropped.jpg

[thesameguy]

Any idea why the windshields got laid back on the later ones? Just curious...

[Random]

Better aero? Haha.

Fewer reflections on the inside of the window at night, maybe?

One painful quirk of those buses is that the box for the front sign sticks pretty far into the headspace of the driver, as the driver is sliding into the seat. Ow. :(

[thesameguy]

Discuss.

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/rvs/4376638503.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00d0d_lsLaYHIhnjE_600x450.jpg

[Random]

How much is a new window! Is 60 gallons of water enough for the week! It doesn't have an awning--could be a plus or minus depeneding on the weather!

Here's the brochure! http://issuu.com/mehdihmh/docs/binderbrochurefmc2900r

[thesameguy]

I have limited experience with new automotive glass, but given the window is fixed and flat (which seems likely on a bus) I've got a good idea of minimums and maximums. Last year we bought a LOT of glass from a Dick's Rancho Glass to replace shelves, doors, and cabinets in the house, so I have some numbers to work with. :) Definitely a concern though. :)

60g of fresh washer seems like an average amount of water for RVs in the class I've been looking - which are admittedly smaller than this. Most of the ~25' rigs I've looked at are running 60 gallon tanks, so I don't think we're losing anything there. The only thing we need that water for is maybe a couple showers (HA!) and some toilet flushing. I think the rest of our drinking water will probably be bottled and brought with.

The awning is probably not a necessity. I think the time spent near the rig will be spent in the rig with AC, and that will account for relatively little time. It'd be nice to have one, but certainly not a dealbreaker. There are plenty of well-covered camps to hang out at the rest of the time.

This thing is way older than I should even be considering and even a little bigger, but it looks to be in impeccable shape and it's quite interesting! Vintage combined with bus!

Edit: I was reading this site:

http://www.fmcmotorcoach.com/index.html

which seems to have EVERYTHING on these trucks! That is really helping me defend this idea! :D

[Random]

Reading through the site is fun. Reviews from when 14,000lb was "one of the largest production coaches," for example. :D

[thesameguy]

I was enjoying it too.

Having all that technical information to draw from is a huge boon - it's stuff that's hard to come by on much newer rigs.

I emailed the guy - I am really interested in that thing. I've got Southwest miles to burn and a garage in SoCal that needs cleaning. I could really see a weekend trip coming up quickfast.

[Random]

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/rvs/4379697908.html

There are days when you really regret living in suburbia...

[thesameguy]

Summer home in Winters? :lol:

[Random]

Only $1.4 million for 220+ acres west of Esparto...

[XHawkeye]

Old school RVs

http://blog.hemmings.com/index.php/2014/03/16/sia-flashback-camping-out/

[KillerB]

Wait, you have a garage in SoCal?!!

[Random]

Belongs to the mother-of-the-gf, I presume.

[thesameguy]

Only $1.4 million for 220+ acres west of Esparto...

Want to team up?

[thesameguy]

Old school RVs

http://blog.hemmings.com/index.php/2014/03/16/sia-flashback-camping-out/

Yeah! That old iron is crazy. I have a bunch of sites about them bookmarked and look at the every so often. It's mind blowing how the whole craze got started.

[21Kid]

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/rvs/4379697908.html

There are days when you really regret living in suburbia...

That's what I'm talking about! :random:

[novicius]

Heh, whenever I see those busses, all I think about it is The Gauntlet. :cool:

http://pics.imcdb.org/0is122/bus2ey6.2894.jpg

[Random]

An Eagle 01. :)

[thesameguy]

Slightly more than I was going for, but this seems pretty awesome:

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/ant/rvs/4389326504.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00u0u_fsXiGiojOGx_600x450.jpg

[Random]

408 area code, but the RV is in Lancaster.

Number portability sucks. :p

ps. chin spoiler, for maximum speed in the corners! :hard:

pps. and fender flares! Throw some Super Singles on that badboy. :D

http://www.truck-drivers-money-saving-tips.com/image-files/super_single_tire_dsc03013.jpg

[thesameguy]

Yeah, I noticed that too. Based on the verbiage, I'm guessing it's a broker or maybe a relative of the owner, who it sounds like isn't with us anymore.

I emailed on it - 30' is longer than I want, but I really like it. We'll see what happens.

[speedpimp]

It only has single tires at the rear, no tandems.

[Random]

I know--but the super singles were the first wide truck tire I could think of, which was the point. :)

[speedpimp]

Gotcha.

[thesameguy]

It's FWD, so meats out back don't do much. :D The setup is like a GMC - the Revcon came to market about the same time, with many of the same ideas on construction... FWD, tag axles, aluminum skin, aerodynamic considerations, etc.

It's also being sold by owner, but already in negotiations with a guy from Canada. DOH!

[thesameguy]

I'm getting ready to click off the 60 day BUY BUY BUY window on Monday, and lining up candidates. I'm still hoping that Revcon is available, but this has my interest as well:

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/rvs/4393520063.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00y0y_5kDUxXidpP6_600x450.jpg

[Random]

The IKEA furniture is an interesting touch. I like that the ad shows it actually being used, rather than just sitting around being a junk room.

[thesameguy]

Yeah, I could take the furniture or leave it, but it looks clean, seems to hit all the right buttons, and being a Holiday Rambler Alumalite makes it an excellent choice all around.

[thesameguy]

Bummed. Seller finally responded to my "I'm 500 miles away" and four simple questions with "everything works, come take a look." Doesn't seem like the type of person I want to do business with.

[thesameguy]

This is not interesting, but it's hard to beat its general newness!

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4384569729.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00T0T_8vnn5ealCF1_600x450.jpg

[Random]

And it's local. Heh.

[thesameguy]

Those guys never got back to me and the ad disappeared, so... oh well.

This one is also boring and local, but it is available - so that's a plus. Gonna try and look at it tomorrow evening.

http://yubasutter.craigslist.org/rvs/4378519647.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00303_gtQwU4yzXnB_600x450.jpg

[novicius]

That's a monster! :lol:

[Random]

"Bounder" always struck me as being possibly too descriptive of the road mannerisms...please report. ;)

ps. located in Woodland and posted on the Yuba-Sutter c/l?! Talk about limiting your market...

[thesameguy]

I'm not sure it was posted on that CL.... it came up in the "nearby areas" list at the bottom of some other search. I saw it several times before clicking on it.

It's really not that big - 28' is small to mid-size for a Class A, and just two feet longer than most of the Class Cs I've looked at. Big (to me, anyway) is over 30', and there are many approaching 40'. 28' is just eight feet longer than a Suburban, and six feet longer than the Fleetwood. It's not even one of the wide-body ones that started coming out in the mid to late '90s. Those are wide! I think it looks bigger than it is because it's so square.

From the research I've done, "Bounder" was Fleetwood's most popular line and one of the most popular RVs for years and years running. There are dozens of them for sale at any moment. It has a lot going for it in terms of newness and popularity, but the seller doesn't know much about it. Doesn't know how old the tires are, doesn't know how big the tanks are, doesn't know how big the generator is. That's a lot of unknowns. But, it looks super clean and it's fairly new - the only real strike against it is the high mileage. I'll still go look at it... it's close enough and promising enough it's worse a firsthand.

[KillerB]

The Bounders were for many years made about a mile from where I grew up. It was pretty much the last large manufacturing plant in the area until it closed during the recession. They used to have parking lots full of bare chassis.

[thesameguy]

Inspection is Saturday at 2pm. Dope!

[Random]

The high miles are a two-edged sword--on the one hand it's a sign the RV was used, instead of sitting around in some storage yard or driveway getting dry-rot on all the rubber/plastic parts.

On the other hand, it's been used, which suggests that you may run into end-of-life issues with various components. :shrug:

ObSwingOutWarning. :)

[thesameguy]

Totally agreed on the mileage. The guy didn't know if it was fuel injected ("I think so") or not, but I assume it is. There were so many Bounders sold that I don't think '80s chassis were sitting around waiting to be bodied into the '90s, so that should mean a TBI 454 and a 4L80E, which is a pretty durable combo. A nice thing about the 4L80 vs the TH400 is that the 4L80 was built to move stupid-heavy loads, whereas the TH400 was built in the '60s to move moderately heavy cars. Given that dude wasn't towing things all over the place, I am not too worried about the mileage... I'm gonna rack up 1000 miles (maybe 1500?) and then be done. If it runs now, it'll run then. My actual concern is resale value, but a '93 at $7500 is a good price - I think I can get that back out of that.

The mark against this rig is that is doesn't have a leveling system. I may not care since the desert is pretty darned flat, but it'd be a nice thing to have nonetheless.

The owner's manual is here:

http://fleetwoodrv.com/partsandservice/manuals/1993_BOUNDER.pdf

but inexplicably has no specifications. Nothing about the engine, water storage, propane storage, nothing. Lame.

[Random]

That's a pretty generic owner's manual. :| No brochures pre-99, either. Bummer.

[Random]

ps. if you end up with a Fleetwood, you know what you have to do to the badge... ;)

[thesameguy]

Does it even need to be said?

[thesameguy]

Some other possibilities:

I am incredibly attracted to this thing... but it's 33' long, which really is obscene. I've read a fair amount about them and they were extremely expensive back in the day, but they are made of obscure parts. So many strikes against I'd never do it, but I do like looking at it. :) It's been for sale for weeks.

http://fresno.craigslist.org/rvs/4398275008.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00404_8v8MgxPI9Yr_600x450.jpg

Also stupid long, but also very high end. Mostly just posting it so I can look at it some more. :lol:

http://fresno.craigslist.org/rvs/4402759752.html

http://images.craigslist.org/01111_jFrgS8BIQGp_600x450.jpg

This person sucks at uploading photos, but it should be a nice rig. Apparently Fleetwood bought out another RV company and they merged the product lines. The Coronado ended up being the best or second best Fleetwood you could buy. The underpinnings are essentially the same as the Bounder.

http://stockton.craigslist.org/rvs/4399646983.html

http://images.craigslist.org/00M0M_1gB7RVeSanx_600x450.jpg

[Random]

The twin bed set-up in the Eurocoach is cute. You'll have to get a full set of silk pjs and a knees-to-neck nightgown for L. :lol:

Air horns on the Rockwood and Eurocoach! :D

Out-of-state plates on teh ROckwood might be a red flag--couldn't smog it?

[thesameguy]

I'm personally shocked at the number of Class A trucks that have dual twins in a private bedroom in back. I cannot figure out the logic of that. "No, kids, you take the back bedroom, mom & dad are going to sleep on the dinette." Wha? I don't want separate beds, but I also would not let duals keep me from owning a particular truck - but my plan was to pull the mattresses off and put a big sheet of plywood or something across the frames and slam a king-sized futon mattress on top. "Walk around bed" is another feature on RVs, but I don't give a rip. Wall to wall bed is a-ok by me. ;)

Both the Rockwood and the Eurocoach have out of state plates, and both are in Central CA. I don't know what that means. It could just be people who have moved, or moved around, or retirees who just happen to be in the valley at this moment in time. I dunno. But 30+' is just too big, so I can't take it too seriously anyway. But I really like them both, especially that Eurocoach. :D

[speedpimp]

'78 Chrysler Vogue, only $1200 (http://southbend.craigslist.org/cto/4376923817.html)

[speedpimp]

If price were no object then I present a $50k party bus! (http://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/cto/4401597865.html)
http://images.craigslist.org/00g0g_kjvJi4SqT30_600x450.jpg

[thesameguy]

No joke, ads like that were exactly how this whole thing started. I got thinking a couple grand would get me something old that would get me through two weeks and 1,000 miles. Over time, I've been scared into being, um, scared about things not working, exploding, or getting stranded, and now I'm shopping $7000+ trucks. I kinda wish I was still under the impression that the original plan would work, but OTOH I really don't want to end up in a situation where I waste $1,000 worth of tickets and end up having to deal with a 10,000lb dead hulk being towed somewhere. Newer is much less fun, much less interesting, but I need to remind myself that in this case the vehicle is a relatively small part of the fun I intend on having.

I think '78 is on the 440's decided downhill slide, yeah?

[thesameguy]

If price were no object then I present a $50k party bus! (http://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/cto/4401597865.html)
http://images.craigslist.org/00g0g_kjvJi4SqT30_600x450.jpg

DUDE. Scissor doors AND three spoke wheels? So in.

[Random]

I think you would have to spend the whole week in Daft Punk-esque garb.

[JoshInKC]

I think '78 is on the 440's decided downhill slide, yeah?

Not sure. I think the heavy truck motors kept the normal, non-lean burn equipment for the most part, and in general the 440 was beefy enough torque-wise to drag a big, brick-shaped sail around.

[Random]

The swissRoomBox, complete with Swiss Army knife:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cy3gKwirLk

Neat. :D

[thesameguy]

That is neat - for most of our traveling "needs" that'd be super!

[thesameguy]

Ugh. It is not $8,000 neat.

[Random]

:lol:

[thesameguy]

:lol:

I dunno... should I buy a 20 year old RV or some red jigsaw puzzle box thingies? They're both eight grand, so I'm kinda lost as to what to do here...

Tangentially related: Picked up a $4,000 4k LCD today in the Suburban. Dude helping me load the teev said, "I think this TV is worth about twice as much as your car." I laughed and told him "More like three times, but the truck won't fit inside the TV, which is why I had to buy another TV."

[21Kid]

The room box (w/swiss army knife) is pretty cool. Is it seriously $8k? That seems a bit over-priced. :lol:

[thesameguy]

Technically $8350, but I rounded to $8k.

Apparently you can buy the pieces piecemeal now because the cost of entry was too high. I bet that stuff wouldn't be too tough to replicate.

[Jason]

I guess I'm stupid, but I find the price to be reasonable... they start in cheaper kits too.

Personally, I think the whole thing is bad ass, and am seriously considering it whenever I pull the trigger on something new. :)

[Random]

From the Vintage Campers f/b group:
https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1.0-9/10171710_722758824432389_270828113_n.jpg

Hawt.

[thesameguy]

I wonder what the range of a 500e towing a trailer is like? :D Maybe we could put a big generator in the trailer and charge the Fiat as we go. Tesla-esque range extender? :D

Appointment is still on for the Bounder in Woodland on Saturday. I'm feeling pretty good about it.

The Revcon is available again and being moved to San Jose sometime in the week. They put new tires on the back and are driving it, so that bodes well for its roadworthiness.

No further word from the Coronado people - I'll try them one more time then give up.

[speedpimp]

I went passed a lot today that had not one, but TWO, count'em, two, mid-70's Dodge class-Cs that looked every one of their thirty-five plus years.

[thesameguy]

I think it's RV buying season. I was worried as warm months approached prices were going to go up, but on the contrary there is more, better, cheaper stuff on CL now than four months ago. :up:

[thesameguy]

So, the 1993 Bounder is like this:

http://youtu.be/hRNkvyeFktM

It is TBI, does have a 4-speed auto. Its worn from, um, existing, but really not beat up. The worst of its cosmetics is the very back right corner, which may have been hit. The corner is wrinkled, the roof is damaged, and water got in there and discolored the ceiling. It's been patched, but the patch is failing. Otherwise, it's quite clean. The rear tires are good, front tires are not and need to be replaced. We tested the generator (an Onan 4000 :up:) and the house AC. We did not test the plumbing. It's been in storage for five months, and the engine battery was unfortunately dead so we could start it - it had been driven to where we looked at it, but not long enough to charge the battery. Thus we don't know if the dash AC works - or really if the engine or transmission works. A recovery option was not forthcoming - we drove the Fiat to look at it, so couldn't even jump it. DOH! Anyway, overall it's solid just old.

I'm going to shop for tires and I have some questions about some juice on the left rear wheel (maybe leaking something, maybe just moisture picking up grease and dirt).

It's exactly the right size, has exactly the right features. I'm sold on the concept, if not this particular truck. It was parked on a slope, so I immediately see the value of leveling jacks, but the desert is pretty flat so it may not matter right now. Otherwise, it's a good fit. I'm just not sure how battery+tires+damage affects its immediate price, nor how the mileage, lack of leveling, and damage affects future resale.

More research is called for, but this was a great start.

[speedpimp]

If you intend on only using it sparingly you might be able to get away with a set of retreads up front.

[thesameguy]

I am estimating a 1000 mile use, but wouldn't rule out 2000 miles. I could probably do retreads or used or Chinese! :D

Looks like new good tires are in the $250-$450 range, which isn't too bad. Maybe throw some Hankooks or Hercules tires on there, be out $400 or so, and drive 2,000 miles. That's not the end of the world.

Seems like this truck has an immediate need of $1000 or so worth of work - battery, tires, tuneup. I need to see what that investment does to it pricewise, vis a vis other trucks. My gut tells me $8500 buys me a truck that is tangibly better, without any needs.

[Random]

It's been a while since I read the commercial driver's handbook, but I don't think retreads are legal on the front tires in CA. Something to research, at least.

(Technically, RVs aren't commerical vehicles, but it's prudent, IMO, to treat them like a bus.)

[speedpimp]

I made it over to the lot with the 70's Dodge Class C's.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_RVs.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/RVs.png.html)
The green one is a Chevron. I don't know if it was made locally or not. It was the better looking of the two.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_chevrondirverside.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/chevrondirverside.png.html)http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_Chevronside.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/Chevronside.png.html)http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_Chevronback.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/Chevronback.png.html)
The brown one is a lot rougher looking.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_vonstetina1.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/vonstetina1.png.html)http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_vonstetinadriverside.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/vonstetinadriverside.png.html)http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_vonstetinaside.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/vonstetinaside.png.html)
At the back of the lot was this:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/speedpimp/th_imperial.png (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/speedpimp/media/imperial.png.html)

[thesameguy]

Is it weird that those crappy Imperials are kinda starting to look interesting?

[speedpimp]

Not really. Though I've always liked the looks of those last Cordobas, Miradas and Imperials.

[Random]

Some ads from the upper end of the budget...

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvd/4381056582.html 34-footer; now we're talkin'! :D
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4412008513.html
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4411927611.html More twin beds. DubyaTeeEff.
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4406854120.html Seems overpriced for the year, but the condition may make up for it?
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4410778111.html 13-foot color teev! *smirk* Looks good, though.
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4410737705.html A much cheaper Bounder than the one in Woodland.
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/rvs/4410520014.html I think there's a zero missing at the end of this price.

[speedpimp]

Here (http://www.rvtrader.com/New-and-Used-Winnebago-Adventurer-32v-RVs-for-Sale----RVTrader.com/search-results?make=Winnebago|2307464&model=Adventurer+32v|764852511&vrsn=hybrid) is a gaggle of that same model and their pricing seems to be all over the place.

[thesameguy]

That ad Random posted is gone, I think it was the same spam ad that's all over CL and has been for months. I probably flag six to ten of them a day, every day. Sometimes the same ad three times on three different devices. :lol:

That Bounder is quite large, but intriguing. I might have to go look at it.

I also like that Allegro a lot - they seem to hold their value well which probably means something. I wish it was closer - it looks like it's out in the middle of nowhere! The Revcon is now in SJ, so maybe I will gas up the Benz and go check out both of these this weekend.

I have some calls to make tomorrow to see about storage. The place where the Bounder was being stored was $58/mo. It's outside, but I don't think a few more months of outside is going to kill a 20+ year old RV, and does open some options for size.

I really need to come to grips with my priorities - age vs. cool factor. I feel like I am increasingly into fuel injection and an OD transmission over vintage-ness. Now that it's less speculation and more committing to driving into the middle of nowhere in a mobile apartment "that would be neat to have" is being replaced with "I really, really don't want to have mechanical problems." :lol: I also need to really figure out how soon I need to have this vehicle in custody to become comfortable with it. Should I jump on something now or just take it easy and wait for just the right one? This is by far and away the most stressful vehicle purchase I have ever made. In fact, I am stressed more about this than I was buying my damned house.

[thesameguy]

Also, I am pretty much 100% back in the Class A camp. After shopping tires, they're not too bad. Since I'm not looking at truly old anymore, repair issues shouldn't be a concern. And after looking at a lot of trucks, I don't think I am going to get the fuel or fresh water capacity I want (maybe need) in a C. I haven't see a Class C with more than a 50 gallon fresh water tank, and most are 30-40 gallons. The Bounders, for example, have 90-100 gallon tanks. That's far more comfortable.

[speedpimp]

Are you looking for air or hydraulic brakes?