Ongoing maintenance repairs

We (complete newbies) have been looking for a trailer for awhile. Our favorite so far is the HiLo, followed by the TrailManor. We've found a 24' 2000 Towlite that looks to be in good shape. The main concern we have is ongoing maintenance, especially since the company (from what I understand) is now out of business.

Questions:
How hard is it to find someone to service it? Can any RV repair shop do it? What about parts?
What should our biggest concerns be with 16 yo HiLo? The lift system? How long do they typically last (I realize that's a stupid question. So many variables (how much it has been used, how well maintained, etc.) but any input would be appreciated. How expensive are repairs to the lift?
What should have already been replaced after 16 years?
In general, how do HiLos hold up over so many years of use (again, lots of variables...)?
Should we look for a newer one (we're pretty price sensitive because we're not sure how much we'll use it. The one we found is $4000 which seems like a good price to me)?

Thanks so much!

Sharman

Welcome to the forum. The only thing unique to the Hi-Lo is the lift system. There are a couple of vendors that sell Hi-Lo specific parts and a few RV dealers still know how to work on them. Preventative maintenance will determine how long things will last. hard to tell. The NADA guide prices listed are a little high but it will give you an idea. Good luck!

Home - JR REPAIR

Midget RV & Trailer Service HiLo Specialist

2000 Hi Lo Price, 2000 Hi Lo Values & 2000 Hi Lo Specs | NADAguides


This was taken from NDgent's post here on the forum. It is a great go-by list. You can do a search of thinking about buying and find his post to read it first hand.

Basically, start with the visual items –
1. Exterior
• Look for water stains and discoloration on inside walls and around ceiling anywhere vents, skylights, windows, etc. exist.
• Push and prod with your hand on the inside walls for soft spots (which could indicate a water leak and a damaged or rotten interior wall).
• Check for bubbles in the wallpaper (a sign of delimitation or water intrusion)
2. Interior cleanliness of the unit-
• Look for water stains and discoloration on inside walls and around ceiling anywhere vents, skylights, windows, etc. exist.
• Push and prod with your hand on the inside walls for soft spots (which could indicate a water leak and a damaged or rotten interior wall).
• Check for bubbles in the wallpaper (a sign of delimitation or water intrusion)
3. Test appliance functions –
• lights
• fans
• refrigerator
• air conditioner
• heater
• water pump
• range hood
• stovetop
• oven (if equipped)
• microwave (if equipped)
• stereo (if equipped)
4. Lift System-
• Does the unit raise and lower properly
• Check the lift system for hydraulic leaks (puddle under the trailer)
• Check the lift cables to see if they are in good shape and not frayed
• Check the seal between the upper and lower body halves for tears or damage
5. fill the tanks to the top and check for leaks
6. Battery
7. Solar Panel (if equipped)

Thanks, Ruben, for the detailed response. This helps a lot!