Sunline 1550 vs 15' Terry Resort camper

[Tego]

There is an '88 Terry in my area. It's basically the same layout as the 1550. The guy tells me that the fridge, stove and heater all work. He also insists that it has an AC that runs on propane. Is that possible? He says there is evidence of a couple previous roof leaks which he says are repaired.

He's firm at $2,000.00 which seems like plenty to me. Is this as good as the 1550? Is this a decent deal?

[mainah]

I think he means the fridge runs on propane. Not a shot the A/C will. The roof leaks maybe repaired but was any damage done? Price sounds a bit high to me. I think you will find the build quality to be a bit better with the Sunline.

[Wannabes]

Agree with Mainah, $2000.00 sounds high for an '88 and the Sunline would probably be better quality. Then again, I don't know whether the Terry was a quality built TT or not. Be a little suspicious about the "evidence of a couple of previous roof leaks which he says are repaired." To my way of thinking, either he knows that there were roof leaks and they've been repaired or he's guessing. As Mainah pointed out, the area that leaks may have been repaired but what about damage caused by the leaks? There are threads here where you can see that it's not good enough to just stop the leak, water trapped inside will continue to cause damage. I'd hang in there for a Sunline.

[JohnB]

Originally Posted by Tego

He also insists that it has an AC that runs on propane. Is that possible? He says there is evidence of a couple previous roof leaks which he says are repaired.

Heads up on the leaks. He may be honest that the leak was repaired, and to him it is fixed as he may not know what can happen inside the walls/ceiling etc. But.... you really need more info before buying.

Where was "each" leak?

What did they do to fix each leak?

How long was it leaking for?

Did they take apart the wet area inside the walls and or ceiling to remove wet insulation or wall board? Or just stop the leak and it felt dry so they did not take it apart.

If it was fixed right, then this may not be an issue. Fixed wrong it can be a camper rebuild project after you find out the walls are rotted inside.

Water leaks into the camper is one of the biggest concerns on used camper. Even some new ones...

Are you handy with wood working and have the tools?

Jim44646 has used a moisture meter to help cull out issues. See this post http://www.sunlineclub.com/forums/f6...ons-15428.html

Jim talks about the meter. This may help you sort this out.

Good luck and hope this helps.

John

[Tego]

The leaks were "repaired" from the outside only. There's a seam in the ceiling near the front overhead bunk which has significant damage. It's all flaky looking which indicates that it leaked for quite some time. In the rear corners the luan/masonite is all bowed out which also indicates a long-term leak.

The floor, however, seems quite solid. The inside looks basically unused and in really good condition.

I am very good with woodworking tools and have a fully stocked shop as it's what I do for a living. I just don't really want to pay 2 grand for something I'm going to have to rebuild. It seems like too much money in that condition.

I've now seen two Sunlines and the 15' Terry. Unless he cuts the Terry price in half, I think I'll hold out for a 1550.

[jim44646]

If it was a long term leak it may have rotted framing. I not only use a moisture meter when looking at A TT but using it's probes you can tell the condition of the wood. If probes go in all the way to easily the frame may be rotted and mushy.

[jim44646]

Originally Posted by jim44646

If it was a long term leak it may have rotted framing. I not only use a moisture meter when looking at A TT but using it's probes you can tell the condition of the wood. If probes go in all the way to easily the frame may be rotted and mushy.

PS to that last post. You can also check framing for rot with an ice pick. Just don't poke yourself