Sunday, Apr 26, 2009 at 19:32
Hi New Traveller,
If you are prepared to look around there are a fair number of older vans (1980's) out there. Some will be crap but there are a few very good ones (1 owner and alway shedded) and a number of fair to average condition units.
FWIW I bought an immaculate 1 owner 1982 model 16ft Viscount Grand Tourer poptop with twin beds and a Dinette/double bed with 12/240 Engel fridge, small 4 burner, grill and oven for just under $6000. No toilet or shower and on road only, but still good value.
Things to look for:-
External:-
Previous History, No of owners, last owners name and address (if it's in a dealers yard) Ownership check (REVS or Hire Purchase check)
Make sure that the van's weight figures are within your tow vehicles capacity
Solid rust free chassis, A frame and springs
Suitable to hitch and security chains and shackles
Reasonable Exterior condition, no dents, mismatched panels or paint
Evenly worn tires, (be a bit aware of brand new ones, they could be disguising a bent axle).
Gas and power lines should be neat and tidy underneath
All indicator, stop and tail lights must work
Internal:-
No unusual discolouration of bench tops or interior lining (Sign of water leaks)
All curtains should match (sort of)
All seats should be undamaged but allow a bit for fair wear and tear.No tears in covers.
Mould under seats or mattresses indicated water leaks or poor ventilation while stored
All cupboards and
drawers should match, be reasonably easy to open and shut and have some sort of security lock to prevent them opening while travelling.
Fridge, stove and all interior lights should work
Level floor viewed from both inside and underneath (may have had patches put on water damaged areas)
If all of the above check out and you feel comfortable with the van after a reasonable test drive it should suit your purposes.
If you are not comfortable about anything, walk away. There are others around.
Sorry this is a bit long but I hope it helps.
Disco.
AnswerID:
361717