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Topic: looking hard at buying a 1998 U270 (Read 765 times) previous topic - next topic

looking hard at buying a 1998 U270

I have been away from RV'ing for 25 yrs but thinking hard about getting back into one. I have been looking hard at a 1998 U270 with 80K miles, this board has been a huge resource for me as I consider a foretravel and the coach I am looking at in particular.
The coach is a very clean one with some slight bulkhead separation and a cracked RH windshield, other than that looks good. I live not to far from Nac so went to see them last week and was impressed. Talked with service about the Bulkhead separation, WS and a TV mods.  I will not be full timing but plan to travel 2-3 month out of the year (if I jump into this). I need to make a final go - no go decision soon. Anyone with thoughts about this would be appreciated.

Green

Re: looking hard at buying a 1998 U270

Reply #1 –
People worry to omuch about fuel/mechanical - make a list of all the things you will absolutely want to fix/upgrade - pay attention to TV's, cosmetics, options (hose reels, headlight conversion, tire monitoring, all sorts of trinkets, etc). Assume you will need to fix/replace the refrigerator in the next 3 years. Tires need to be 5-6 years old (especially steering tires), figure that into your budget, batteries expensive too, how old are they?

Bulkhead usually not very expensive, but a good PDI at MOT or FOT will give you an idea about the coach.

Exterior cosmetic upgrades very costly and satisfying, don't return much at resale as a % of cost, but really help sell the coach.

Add $5K to your budget in first year for "stuff" - then you won't be frustrated as you get it up to snuff.

Course if you can do most of the stuff yourself, these $$'s will be less. Quite a bit less.

Good choice, jump in, you will really enjoy that year and model for the $$$'s you pay, and if you take care of it, the depreciation will be minimal over time, vs. other brands or newer coaches.
Tim Fiedler    2025 LTV Unity MBL on Order
2000 Chevy Tracker 2 Door Convertible 4WD Now lifted 4.5"
1985 Citroen 2CV6 Charleston
Murphy Rebel on wheels with 175HP Titan
Cessna P337
1980 48' Westport MY (!/4 Share)

Re: looking hard at buying a 1998 U270

Reply #2 –
I bought a 96 U270 with 52k miles about 4 years ago, and so far have spent about $5k per year just owning it.  I do almost all the work myself.  Things like oil and lube for chassis, engine, transmission, differential, filters, coolant, engine belts and idlers, generator (radiator leak, fan belt, voltage regulator, fuel lines).  Other things were house batteries, chassis batteries (no charge under warranty),  brake pads one wheel, oil seals-front hubs, Koni shocks, added bulkhead bolts (slight separation - 3 or 4 broken bolts), air dryer filter and rebuild, new refrig (old one still cooling), front and rear TV replace and cabinet rebuild for front TV, replace water heater control module, replace CO and LP detectors, replace bath sink faucet, repair patio awning (2x), and several other things too numerous to mention.  It had new tires, so haven't had to replace them.  Things to do: carpet, decals and/or paint, satellite TV, window shades.  Unit does not have washer/dryer or ice maker.  Unlike the other SOB's I rented or owned, it has never had a major problem during 20k miles I have driven it.
 
You only live once, if you can afford it, buy it. 
Jerry Whiteaker former owner 96 U270  36' #4831 Austin,TX-Owner Mods LCD TV w/front cabinet rebuild - LCD TV bedroom - Dual Central AC, either can cool coach w 30 amp - Skylights at roof AC openings - Drop ceiling for ducting of AC - Shower skylight white gelcoat/wood/epoxy frame - Air Springs/Shocks replaced - 2014 CRV - 8K Home Solar - Chevy Volt

Re: looking hard at buying a 1998 U270

Reply #3 –
Do it.  Just do it.
Carol & Jeff Savournin
Usta have a '93 U225 36', Usta have a '95 U320 40', Usta have a '02 U320 40'
Usta have a 2006 Born Free, Usta have a 2011 Phoenix Cruiser
Usta have a 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4dr
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life."  Steve Jobs

Re: looking hard at buying a 1998 U270

Reply #4 –
Buy the one you love!  I agree 100% with Carol.  If you are ready to jump back in get what you want and get on with it.  As others have said in detail - it is going to cost you year after year, but you already know that.
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Mark & Mary Benko
Former coach: 2005 U295 3823
Jeep Cherokee, Honda Fit
 

Re: looking hard at buying a 1998 U270

Reply #5 –
We purchased a 1999 U295 3 years ago and haven't regretted it one day.  Other than routine maintenance we have had very few additional costs.  Most of the problems  I was able to repair or replace myself.  FOT service department has been very helpful with information.  Our coach came with the best owners manual I"ve ever seen.  This forum has also been very helpful.  I would say go for it.
Larry & Karen Pontius
2007 Nimbus