VALLEY RV have put together a helpful checklist to avoid those unforeseen dangers in a used caravan or camper.
So you have decide to buy a pre loved caravan or camper, buying pre loved can not only be the cheaper and more affordable option but you can also discover some wonderful hidden gems.
What do you need?
Before buying any caravan it’s important you decide what you are going to use it for:
•Are you a regular camper?
•Will you stay on the highway or take you van off road?
•Typically camp for long or short stays
•What is your towing capacity
•What’s your camping style; indoor cooking and relaxing or is your van just for sleeping and food prep?
Be Prepared
If you are going to check out a van, be prepared. Take along a few items to help you inspect the van and get an accurate understanding of the van’s condition.
•A torch
•Camera
•Notepad
•Tape measure
Water Leaks
The most common problem in both new and used caravans, water leaks can cause irreparable damage. It’s important you do a thorough check for water damage.
•Around the roof lines
•Windows
•Inside cupboards
•Around heaters/air conditioning units
•Hatches
Chassis Cracks
The chassis is the foundation in which the caravan sits on. You will need your trusty torch and maybe a bit of help, to have a look underneath the van to check for cracks. Often these can be fixed by re welding but is an added cost to you the buyer if unaware.
Tare & GTM Weight
Quite often customers will buy a secondhand caravan and previous owner has made modifications which have increased the weight of the caravan. Most caravans should have a compliance plate, this plate will have the details of your caravan’s weight capacity. You can also ask for a current weighbridge certificate to ensure the van is compliant.
Plumbing & Electrical
There are a few things you will need to check here; Electrics, check the lights for dimming or flickering as this could be linked to more serious problems, check brake lights and indicators. If possible, ask to check the 240V power (linking to household power) and check interior lights, this will also give you the opportunity to check appliances such as ovens, air conditioning units and microwaves.
Connect the van to water and run your taps this is a great opportunity to check underneath for pump leaks.
Where possible ask for a gas and electrical certificate.
Ask questions to learn about the van history.
• Has it been stored undercover or outside?
• Any major changes, new appliances, structural replacements or rebuilds inside or out.
• What year is the caravan, are the parts still available? (Caravans over 10 years old can be harder to obtain replacement parts for)
• Check cupboards, windows and hatches open and close properly
Service History
Caravans should be serviced every 10,000 kms, this however is rarely the case. If you are buying a caravan request the service history or a current service certificate. If the seller does not have one, you can ask for a pre purchase inspection to be carried out by an industry professional, but this may come at an additional cost to you.
Know your limitations
Some people will be looking for a caravan in great condition that is ready to tow on your adventure straight away. For other’s it is looking for the caravan that needs a little love to discover the hidden potential. It is important to know your limits, set a budget for yourself. If you a repairing and refurbishing the caravan yourself know your additional costs such as paint, curtains, appliances, upholstering and structural materials so you can factor into your initial buying price.
You can make some amazing transformations.
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