Txmoe said:
I have never owned an RV but we're itching to buy a Class C. Here are my main questions but would welcome any advice:
- Should I buy new or slightly used?
I'd say that's completely a decision you have to make. As mentioned, if you're more comfortable with the immediate depreciation of buying new vs. possibly inheriting a former owner's problems that you will want to fix, then buy new.
- If used, what's the best way to do it. RV trader, website?
We scoured websites until we found what we wanted. If I had it to do over again, I'd have rented different floorplans before buying.
- What are best brands for Class C? (Looking at either Tiffin or Winnebago but open to others.)
We had a Winnebago (just sold it a couple weeks ago). F450 chassis. Never had any major problems and it got used quite a lot. Did have to fix minor stuff, for instance the A/C return grille fell off once (screws stripped), some trim came loose, rear camera died, etc.
- Interest rates seem high for financing. What's the best strategy for paying them off?
Same as paying anything else off. Put all you can down at purchase and pay more monthly than scheduled.
TIA!
Some things to consider about Class C's (all in my opinion):
They're generally too big to use for any kind of sightseeing and a PITA to unhook/hookup, say, for a quick trip for groceries. Same for a Class A, you'll most likely end up wanting to tow some other vehicle which brings tow bars, tow vehicle lighting and auxillary brakes to the picture. Or tow dollies. Lots of considerations here.
You're driving a rolling earthquake. Cooking ware, stuff in drawers, etc. are right behind you, and it will all end up rattling regardless of how well you pack. Couple that with wind/road noise and the fact you're driving a 5 - 6 ton shoe box, it'll wear you out quicker than you might might think.
Get automatic levelers. Blocking tires is an effort to get level, and even when you do the suspension still moves when you're moving around inside, the wind blows, etc.
Always carry a spare. And have the equipment and know-how to change an inner rear. Because you'll have to at some point unless you're OK with being completely at the mercy of road service. For whatever dumb reason, some class C's don't come with a spare.
I managed 8 mpg, ONCE, with a good tailwind and not running the A/C on a single fillup. I usually got about 6 mpg. I do have a heavy foot.
Pretty much everything else is similar to bigger motorhomes and trailers, proper maintenance goes a long way to helping ensure enjoyable trips.