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Old 10-22-2007, 04:33 PM   #2
Leslie & Nick
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Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: North Georgia
Posts: 380
Default Buying a Used TM

Quote:
Originally Posted by SCBillandJane View Post
Is there a list of what to ask about before you make a long trip to determine if it is what you want? Is there a list of what to look for or to ask that the seller demonstrate before buying when you get there? For those Trailmanor owners who bought used, what did you do to keep from buying a unit from a private seller that had been abused?
A very good question! I had the same thoughts a few years ago before I bought our TM from a previous owner. As you have probably found out by now, a new TM is not inexpensive. A good used unit can be a smart idea. But how do you locate a 'good' unit ????

First, I would say learn as much as you can about TM's in general. This Forum provides a wealth of information. At least you'll have some idea of what to look for (or look out for).

But buying a used TM is something like buying a used car, except that you probably know more about cars than you do trailers in general, and TM's in particular. At least that was my situation. If at all possible, try and find a current TM owner, maybe at a campground (?) Most probably, they would be more than happy to show your their trailer.

A better bet would be to go to a nearby TrailBlazer Rally. A bunch of TM owners get together for a weekend to socialize and show off their TMs. Check the TrailBlazer web site to see if the next Rally is anywhere near you. That would be an ideal situation for you. We just got back from a Dixie Chapter Rally in AL, and I picked up a wealth of ideas from other owners. You will see more TMs at one time, at one of these Rallys than you will anywhere else.

If you're buying directly from an owner, chances are good that he/she knows exactly how everything works (or is supposed to work ). If you go to a dealer, especially one who doesn't specialize in TMs, you might know more than the sales person, believe it or not.

In any case, get the seller or dealer to demonstrate how everything works.

Do the front and back shells raise easily without binding? Are the corner hold downs in place, and do they lock securely? What is the age of the tires (including the spare)? Tire tread may look great, but if the tire is an oldie it will have to be replaced.

Does the Air Conditioner work? Does the stove work? Does the heater work?Does the plumbing system work? Do the interior lights work? Do the trailer's stop, and clearance lights work? Does the refrigerator get cold on electricity, propane, and DC? Are there any apparent water leaks (check under cushions where water comes in from the outside). Does the awning roll out and in easily, are the awning parts (crank arm, and center support) 'present and accounted for'? Does the antenna raise and lower smoothly? Does the antenna power booster work? And last, but certainly not least - does the Thetford toilet work?

I'm sure I've not thought of everything, but these are some of things you might look for. But most of all, you need to rely on your 'gut feeling'. Does the trailer look like it has been well cared for, or has it lived a 'rough life'? Is the interior reasonably clean? Any evidence of water infiltration at the ceiling, door or windows? Some of the above things can be repaired without spending a lot of $$$, while other repairs can be quite costly if you have to make them.

This should at least get you started. I'm sure other contributors will chime in with additional things a prospective buyer should check.

Good luck with your search!!

Nick
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