We are looking at a 1998 U320 in the Denver area and trying to find someone that can check it out for us. I have tried the usual (NRVIA, Google, etc.) and had no luck. Any pointers would be much appreciated.
How much RV experience do you have? Have you owned motorhomes before? The best way to check out a coach is to do it personally, along with a experienced Foretravel owner who can help guide your inspection. But I realize that is not always possible.
The coach you are considering is in Denver. Where are you located? I ask because we might have members who own a similar model coach living near you.
https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?action=GoogleMap
The more coaches you can actually look at in person, the better. Many variables to consider. Only you know what will make you happy.
We have some RV experience, but nothing that compares to the U320. A HUGE thanks to Racedad who met us in Fort Morgan today to walk us through the coach. He was such a huge help. The bad news....bulkhead failure. Thank goodness for Racedad's time and wisdom, saved us from a huge headache. We came home empty handed, with considerably more knowledge. Now we are on the hunt for another coach.
Don't think of it as empty handed, you learned a bunch I'm sure. These coaches are a huge undertaking. IMO if your not doing the work yourself I would recommend something less. The 320 is a great machine but its like a 1997 Cadillac DeVille. Lots of crazy systems and there all 20+ years old. Walking away from a bad choice is far better than pushing threw unless you have deep pockets. Better to go in eyes wide open. I couldn't be happier with mine. Please remind me of that this year when I have the slide off replacing the seal. I assumed our coach would need only everything and so far it hasn't let me down. Bulkhead rebuilt is a deal breaker during prepurchase.
Scott
IMO, even if I did have deep pockets a Unicoach would be too much hassle to maintain if I wasn't doing the work yourself. They're manageable when you can just walk outside and do maintenance/fix things at your own pace but man, if I had to load up and take it to a shop every time something needed attention I'd lose my mind.
Ha ha ha , just call the service writer up and have them pick it up for repairs and return when it's done to its indoor climate controlled room. Cut the check, done, no problem at all. Clean and polish included.$$$$$
We are currently in a Lance truck camper, but have had other campers. The system maintenance and repairs don't scare me. We have replaced water heaters, water lines, toilets, installed inverter, etc., etc. on units. My concerns center around the purchase of our first diesel and 40 feet vs pulling 30 foot bumper pulls. We did really like the Foretravel quality and the layout of the 320, and I'm not overly keen on having "slides" so the U320 fit that ticket for me. We were so thankful for Racedad's time and assistance yesterday and the education we received. There is nothing better than some real "hands-on" experience.
They scare me!
Found my leak U320 Aqua hot (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=40885.msg406350#msg406350)
Long year (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=42605.msg427100#msg427100)
Every thing broken can be rebuilt but always has a cost attached to it, I figured for my coach more in repairs than purchase price. If you have years of hands on knowledge you'll be fine, if you dont you are surrounded by people who do. You will either push thru or hate the commitment you made. I personally had almost restricted my purchase to the point of being unattainable, yet with the help of this forum I am a proud owner of a 20 years old coach. Keep looking your coach is out there.
Scott