Quote:
Originally Posted by Larryjb
Josh,
What year is the one you're looking at?
I drove 6 hours to look at one not ever seeing one in person. I went with the knowledge I could fix just about anything on it, but also with the knowledge that the TM was the only trailer being manufactured that would suit the needs of my entire family. If a TM didn't work out, we wouldn't have any trailer.
If it's near the 2000 year range, check for wood vs metal framing. Check for hail damage or any sort of structural roof damage. There should be a crown to the roof that you can check on the inside.
Rotten wood framing is fixable, but very labour intensive. A collapsed roof is questionable. Several on this board have at least partially restored a collapsed roof, but time will tell if the fix is "permanent".
If the shells don't lift easily (should be pretty easy if in the original shape), it may need adjustment or new torsion bars. In my case, I will need new torsion bars for the front because the adjustment is maxed out.
I'm only writing this to let you know I had the confidence to buy one nearly sight unseen (I did see it when I went, but I told my wife we would not come back empty handed unless it was an unfixable mess). If you are able to see someone's in your area, all the better, but I am a happy camper with mine! (And my wife is accepting of the camper, but her version of camping as a girl was in motels and hotels!)_
Good luck!
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The one I'm interested in is a 2005 3023 model. And just like your scenario, for me to go physically see it, it's about 6 hours away. I actually know some people closer by to the one for sale that I may see about going to look at it in person before I do the 6-hour drive. If I do that, I'll absolutely pass on the info about your watch-outs. I really appreciate that.
I'm not personally handy enough to feel confident that I could fix almost anything myself. That's why I'm more nervous to buy sight-unseen. Plus, I have only seen a Trailmanor once in person, 2 years ago. I want a fresher look. And lastly, I feel like if there is any price negotiation, by the time I've driven to see the one for sale, I've lost some leverage.
This specific list of watch-outs will be incredibly handy. I'm excited to be joining this Trailmanor family one way or another. The concept is exactly what I'm looking for.