Any tips for checking out a used HiLo to purchase? - Hi-Lo camper travel trailer forum

inthepink · 11-05-2011, 12:25 AM

I'm very excited to be going to check out (and hopefully purchase) a 1989 Funchaser 22D tomorrow. Does anyone have any tips for me on what to look for. I already know the fridge doesn't work.

Thanks,
Cheryl

JackandJanet · 11-05-2011, 12:19 PM

Evidence of leaks and water damage. There are numerous threads here that talk about that and the effort it takes to repair the damage.

Make sure everything, especially the raising and lowering works well. Try to "feel"/look at the bulb seal between the top and bottom halves. With a trailer that old, it could be failing and it's a bit of a job to replace.

This guide: Used RV, Travel Trailer & more Prices, Values & Specs by Manufacturer - NADAguides might be of assistance too.

- Jack

NDgent · 11-05-2011, 01:25 PM

I compiled this list of things to look for when buying a Hi-Lo from posting on this site (you can thank the other "Ole Timers"):

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)
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sam · 11-06-2011, 01:38 AM

The top half of the HILo takes takes the worst beating because it covers the bottom half for towing. Go into the bathroom on the inside and press on the walls and check for delamination,soft spots curling or bulging wallpaper. Check all the walls in the same manner. Press on the walls both inside and outside. Areas where my 90 25ft. has leaked,escape vent window,Outside where you plug in the airconditioner plug. Br. walls and inside around the door. Look for stains inside on the roof. With the trailer in the down position use a step ladder to go on the roof. Check all vents. We had to replace our ref. The dealer was only able to get a two way ref. for us. You could consider putting in a dorm size ref. that runs on elec. See my pictures un 90 HiLo Restoration. Does the Airconditioner work? Does the rv have an awning? have the owner pullout the awning for you. If the air works and the awning is in good condition(look at the stitching. Open all cupboards and check for condition leaks. How is the condition of the tires? How old are the tires? Is the interior in good condition. Take pictures and post(use a cellphone. Ask the how much they used the HiLo. Crawl underneath and check out the black and grey water tank. Have the cables on the lift system been replaced. Is the door solidor rottedout. Many of the older units require a rebuild on the interior door? Does the inside smell musty If everything checks out then $1000 if a fair price. Does the toilet hold water after flushing.? Have the owner show you how the toilet works. Does the furnice work? Does the Hot water tank work.? Have the owner put water in the Hot water tank. Call him up before you go to have the water put in. Furnice and Hotwater expensive to replace. If someone lives near you that has a HI Lo have them go with you to check it out.Make a list of all the things you want to check out. If necessary go back a second time and look at it. Any unit that is older will need to have any exterior calk scraped off and Lexell caulk applied. If you purchase you will have to take out each window and apply two layers of Butyl tape and then reinstall. This can be done at home with two people. How old is the battery. Raise and lower the RV several times to see if any problems. Does it have a solar panel? Best of luck with your decision.

inthepink · 11-06-2011, 01:04 PM

Thank you so much for these great tips. I really appreciate the time everyone took to give me such thorough and helpful advice.

Cheryl