What should I look for when buying used BF?

[ChasOButts]

Sorry I ask so many questions lately. Trying to learn before buying. Driving a long ways in a few days to look at a 2001 24RB. I read a lot on the forum. It seems like a lot of folks talk about air bags and also loose brackets on them. Many complain about the "convection" part of the microwave/ convection oven going bad. I know that many of you could really give me some excellent advice on what to look for when inspecting and test driving. I would really, really appreciate it. Also -somebody please tell me where the spare tire is supposed to be since so many of you move it. Lol. Thank you, Charlie

[David and Susan Bratt]

What most people look for are leaks. Climb up into the overcab bed and check for leaks and stains. If necessary hose it down form all angles to see if anything leaks. We had a 16 year old BF and have a 13 year old one, both with overhead windows and not a hint of a leak in either.

[Roger H]

Look for pretty much the same things you'd look for in any RV... if you're not competent to evaluate the chassis and drivetrain yourself, line up a mechanic to do it for you so you know what is ahead for you, chassis-wise. Make sure all of the appliances work. A new refrigerator can run upwards of $2000 (or more) installed depending on size. Make sure there are no soft spots in the floor or roof. As is mentioned above, check for leaks. A leaky roof may not be a significant problem if it hasn't been leaking long, but it may be a bargaining point. it's been my experience that roof caulk lasts from about 7-10 years and should be replaced at that interval anyway. Pretty much everything in a motorhome is off-the-shelf and can be replaced as needed... the only thing that really "belongs" to the manufacturer is the coach build itself.

That's about it...

[Mike Jean Bandfield]

Google "Used RV buyer's inspection OR checklists"; there are quite a few. Each have relevant entries - some are kind of lame. Then make your own complete list from them. If you are buying from a private party, first, ask to see, appliance and chassis manuals, maintenance logs and records/receipts. The availability and completeness of these should help direct the scope and direction of the rest of your inspection. The age and condition of the coach will also be a factor in what and where to inspect. Look at the seams between major body panels. Look for movement where weakness in underlying structure has allowed movement and pulled seams open. Once water damage has gotten to this point no amount of caulking can fix it and major structural repairs ($$$) will be needed. Check for water stains on interior walls, high and low - especially near exterior seams. Born Free coaches are better made than the average and really don't suffer from brand specific inherent deficiencies. However, they are susceptible to the same issues as any other brand using the same or similar chassis and peripherals. Most problems in a Born Free will be as a result of poor maintenance or neglect. -Mike

[ChasOButts]

Thanks everyone for your suggestions. Y'all are great ! Charlie

[jjhepkin]

Hi Charlie
you also asked about the spare tire location, and I dont think anyone has replied to that yet.

Born Free did not include spare tires on their coaches up until recently. There are many threads regarding the spare tire issue and how people have addressed it.
It is not uncommon for RV manufacturers to leave off the spare tire; you will have to decide if its worth the expense to carry one.

I finally decided to "bite the bullet" and so I now carry one that is attached to a spare tire carrier and it fits into my rear trailer hitch.

good luck
john

[ChasOButts]

Thank you so much. I just got my first BF yesterday........so happy. My wife wife said if I died tonight, it would take 3 days for the undertaker to get the smile off of my face.

[jjhepkin]

Congratulations Charlie.

Good luck......I know the feeling and sure you will love it.

John Hepkin

P.S. So what did you end up buying?

[stevek]

Yes... Congrats. Welcome to the "club".
Please tell us more on what you bought.