Toy Hauler Checklist

Bansh88

Bansh88

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Ok.  ONE more hauler thread.  May be kicking tires next week.

Can you guys throw out a checklist for things to look at on a used trailer?  What MUST be good, what can be repaired easily if bad, what's a red flag, what's a good sign of proper maintenance......

Leaning towards a 5th wheel.

This would be my first hauler.  chit, only even slept in one once. 

 
Ask specific questions about the title. The last one I was going to look at was not titled in the sellers name. Interpret that which ever way but it's a red flag for me.

 
I would say structural integrity is the most important. Rust, cracks in the frame, soft spots in the floor and on the roof indicating water intrusion and rot.

Unless the interior is thrashed, most interior issues are easy to fix.

 
Cracks where the outriggers attach to main frame, seems to be a common issue. Look for signs of delamination if it's a smooth side, and definitely climb on the roof. Look for and soft spots, and the quality of the goop that seals all the seams.

Being your first time, it would be super helpful to take a friend who has already gone down that rabbit hole....

Also, it's easy to judge the overall cleanliness, and condition. You can see if they cared about it or not...

 
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The roof was always the biggest point for me. A small roof leak can destroy a camper before you even realize it's there and a "new roof" that was done crappily just means you're still replacing the roof. Also something else that wasn't mentioned is the pin box, check to make sure there are no cracks or bends where its welded to the frame. Mine wasn't fully welded there and began to crack. Check the dates on the tires as well, they should be replaced if over 5ish years old. I bought my 04 with the original tires in great shape, but it was a great deal so replacing them was ok with me. They all have problems, and will continue to have problems, new or used, it's just something you accept going in to it and we love ours. It's essentially a cheaply built mobile home that's in a earthquake and a tornado everytime it's used, haha.

 
Sight the side walls to see if you can see bulges or wrinkles. This is an indication of the frame flex, due to many reasons. Open rear door and have a buddy bounce up and down at rear while watching walls outside to see how much flex there is.

 
What's an outrigger?

Good stuff, boys.   I appreciate it.

 
Iirc it's the support that goes from.the frame out to the edge of the teailer right under the walls.

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If it has a Fuel Station, make sure it works and pumps, check for fuel leaks in the lines and tanks. 

Picked up a WW 5th wheel a few years ago, seller told me the pump did not work and adjusted the price, but what he didn't tell me or maybe didn't realize is the tank had gone bad and had a leak....

 
It was at this point the Bansh had paid attention to all the people who had trailers instead of saying never will I.  

Time to use a lifeline and phone a friend to go with you because the list is to long to type.

 
If you are looking for a 5th wheel Hit up Stugots his is For sale and You Know he will be straight up with ya

 
If you re serious about the RV you are going to look at, or if you get serious after your first look I highly suggest you hire an RV Inspector before you buy. Especially given this is your first rodeo in this arena. They are not that expensive and usually save you more than what they charge in identifying issues. Especially if there is any notion of a leak or water damage. 

 
Dockmaster said:
If you re serious about the RV you are going to look at, or if you get serious after your first look I highly suggest you hire an RV Inspector before you buy. Especially given this is your first rodeo in this arena. They are not that expensive and usually save you more than what they charge in identifying issues. Especially if there is any notion of a leak or water damage. 
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THIS. It is money well spent. They may not catch everything but it is still worth it.

 
I would look for one that has a front cap over a traditional front. They seem to Delam less.

For you I would suggest looking for one with corrugated sides. They seem to be lighter weight and hold up well. 

Stand in the shower for your height too. 

 
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