Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Topic: Buying a (much) older Foretravel (Read 2729 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #25 – October 27, 2015, 09:40:21 pm

As an owner of a 19-year old Foretravel, I can say that I don't think ours is too old. We've certainly had our issues - some expected, some not - but overall, I've been very pleased with the coach and won't hesitate to spend more money to upgrade if/when we can use it more. I bought it to learn about the lifestyle, and I sure have learned a lot.

As of now - new fridge, new AC units, new brakes (pads, rotors, helper springs), hydraulic fan rebuild, steering gear rebuild, tires, rear air springs, air dryer and miscellaneous little other things like water pump. Several coach bucks spent; I've still spent less than the cost of the 5th wheel I almost bought prior to finding the FT.

This forum, and the great folks here who have helped me both virtually and in person - have made our FT ownership experience a good one overall.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #26 – October 27, 2015, 10:03:12 pm

Quote from: RRadio – October 27, 2015, 08:15:35 pm

Act quickly, before the price of diesel goes down too low or the economy improves because you'll lose your "buyer's market" advantage, just saying. Next year is a presidential election and the new administration will focus on lowering fuel prices and economic recovery for sure. This will mean more people with cash to spend and more competition for you.

The lowest prices are already a few years behind us. I bought my little U225 "entry-level coach" ($250,000 in 1993 when you could buy a brand new Dodge diesel pickup for $20,000) for much less than what they are going for now. It was at the nadir of RV pricing and the seller was about to lose his house and his wife if he couldn't sell the motor home he paid $40,000 for just two years previous. I bought it for less than $20,000 with a Banks package and a Pacbrake already installed.

Who knows, I might actually make money on it. Although not likely to find anyone willing to pay a premium for the upgrades I've installed and those have eaten up my profits.

Great Foretravel motor homes all over the place at still-great prices. I see a Special Edition wide-body U300 GV for $30,000 and I just go, "oh, my!"

Craig

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #27 – October 27, 2015, 11:28:35 pm

Always walk the campgrounds like today and look at all the park models being driven in.

We usually are the only non slide Rv's in a state campground

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #28 – October 28, 2015, 02:06:34 am

Quote from: Caflashbob – October 27, 2015, 11:28:35 pm

We usually are the only non slide Rv's in a state campground

True... even the teardrop trailers have slides now.

Craig

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #29 – October 28, 2015, 07:04:18 am

Quote from: Chuck Pearson – October 27, 2015, 07:43:27 pm

The higher the series # of the Unicoaches, starting around '96 when they transitioned to the flat nose bus style, the more convenience features they have and the more money you will spend keeping those aging systems running. I'm not talking about the engine/drivetrain but things like dual pane windows (failing seals) aquahot heating system (nice but potentially very costly to maintain/repair), other features that are nice to have but probably not essential. So, all things being equal, a U270 will be the simplest coach (no difference in quality in or out), the U320 will be the most complex.

While Chuck's entire post is generally quite accurate, please don't let his statements keep you from buying a U320 if it's the "right" one. The most important thing (at least for me) when buying a vehicle is to evaluate the seller--as well as the vehicle. While a U320 is somewhat more complex than a U270, the most important consideration is the quality of the vehicle and the seller. It can cost far less in the long run to buy (and maintain) a U320 that has been properly used and maintained than it would cost to maintain and repair/replace components on a U270 that has not received the appropriate use and care.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #30 – October 28, 2015, 09:09:43 am

Quote from: D.J. Osborn – October 28, 2015, 07:04:18 am

please don't let his statements keep you from buying a U320 if it's the "right" one. The most important thing (at least for me) when buying a vehicle is to evaluate the seller--as well as the vehicle. It can cost far less in the long run to buy (and maintain) a U320 that has been properly used and maintained than it would cost to maintain and repair/replace components on a U270 that has not received the appropriate use and care.

Agree 100%. Be a smart shopper, don't get in a hurry, find the kind of coach where the owner is not just wanting to sell, they are also looking for someone who will treat their coach as they have.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #31 – October 28, 2015, 10:26:27 am

I Have both a 1990 36' U280 with Mechanical 3208T Cat engine and a 96' 40' U320 with Cummins M11 engine. Both are reliable coaches and wonderful to drive. The 96' U320 does have dual pane Windows, and I wish it didn't--- window seal creep happens with age. It does have aquahot-- again, wish it didn't, expensive to keep going and complex lots of maintenance.
The older 1990 all mechanical Unihome coach with single pane Windows, propane furnaces and water heater and manual leveling is far simpler and less costly to maintain. It is absolutely stone reliable--- I would take it anywhere with confidence.
The U320 has more room, more amenities, is fancier and has a larger bathroom. It too is reliable, but does cost more to keep running and maintain. We bought it because we wanted the extra width and room and we love it. The fuel mileage is a little less on the U320 , about 2 mpg less.

We will be selling our beloved U280 "Cosmic Hippo" n the near future, but not because it is a lesser coach, we just don't need two.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #32 – October 28, 2015, 10:44:26 am

Quote from: Kemahjohn – October 28, 2015, 10:26:27 am

I Have both a 1990 36' U280 with Mechanical 3208T Cat engine and a 96' 40' U320 with Cummins M11 engine. Both are reliable coaches and wonderful to drive. The 96' U320 does have dual pane Windows, and I wish it didn't--- window seal creep happens with age. It does have aquahot-- again, wish it didn't, expensive to keep going and complex lots of maintenance.

Just to provide some additional information for the prospective buyer:

Our 1995 U320 does not have dual-pane windows. I believe they were optional in 1996 and became standard in 1997. Even some coaches of that era with dual-pane windows no longer have the seal-creep issues, since they have already been repaired or replaced.

Our 1995 U320 does have an Aqua-Hot, but it has not required complex or expensive maintenance in the three years we've owned it. I have replaced one relay that failed, but that was an easy, inexpensive replacement. In my experience, LP-gas furnaces and water heaters are more of a maintenance headache than is our Aqua-Hot.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #33 – October 28, 2015, 10:58:39 am

Yes, window creep an issue. Not too expensive to repair if you can swing by Hudson FL. Full timers might see some more cold weather I would like to have dual pane windows in that situation

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #34 – October 28, 2015, 12:56:44 pm

The temps swings in a propane furnace drove us crazy. Too hot. Too cold. And drys the air out.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #35 – October 29, 2015, 07:05:50 am

Thanks to everyone for their input. Much more than I expected. I have printed out the replies, and they are much highlighted and notated.

If anyone knows of older Foretravels reasonably close to Austin, where I live, that might be contenders, I'd appreciate knowing about them. A 34' would be terrific (realize there aren't many out there), a 36' is really the max size I'd want.

And what are your thoughts about Unihomes versus Unicoaches? I've never driven a bus front so don't know how they compare.

I've also been told that there are some of you that have the FTXs. I'd love to talk about that, as we had two (a 35' gas and a 38' diesel), and the 38' was my favorite of the five Foretravels that we owned. Is it still possible to find something that old in acceptable shape?

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #36 – October 29, 2015, 08:44:32 am

Quote from: AndiT1 – October 29, 2015, 07:05:50 am

I've also been told that there are some of you that have the FTXs. I'd love to talk about that, as we had two (a 35' gas and a 38' diesel), and the 38' was my favorite of the five Foretravels that we owned. Is it still possible to find something that old in acceptable shape?

Possible? Anything is possible. Easy? Probably not...will take perseverance and patience, and might require that you travel. Use every online search engine you can find - there are MANY of them. You might get lucky!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #37 – October 29, 2015, 10:09:18 am

Andi

Unicoach and unihome both drive very well - yes you can find some very nice ones, ad some not so nice ones/ Living in Austin, suggest a trip over to Nacogdoches to see there inventory - lots to look at and will give you a great perspective on the current market pricing - mostly unicoaches (bus style) of course

Motorhomes of Texas Luxury Pre-Owned Motorhome Dealer for Foretravel Newell Country Coach.

Seeing if you can get a knowledgable inspection from someone such as Brett Wolfe will give you a WEALTH of knowledge and help keep the "unknowns" to a minimum

Yes, you can get great oder coaches. And a few not so great ones, but the good ones outnumber the tired ones. I was just at the GranVention (Motorcade club) and saw dozens of wonderful lovingly maintained older Foretravels. In fact a member of the Forum was there with an absolutely PRISTINE 34' U-270. (Don't think it is for sale just yet).

Do your homework, find something in your price that has been used regularly and maintained regularly (with documentation to prove it), have it inspected by a knowledgeable Foretravel person and you should be fine. Budget 10% of the purchase price for extra maintenance in the first year and when stuff breaks early on you won't be so upset. Coaches used full time actually tend to need less maintenance than those that sit.

Good Luck and welcome!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #38 – October 29, 2015, 11:16:28 am

Hi Andi - Welcome to the forum, & the wonderful world of Foretravel.
As others have said, take your time, have it inspected, be prepared to spend that 10k for upgrades & maintenance, but DON'T be afraid to buy the "Right" coach.
I bought the 1st Foretravel I looked at, I had looked at & researched a lot of other coaches. The FT just felt right. I couldn't be happier.
That said - check this 1 in Florida - Foretravel U-295 diesel motorhome
I know nothing about it, but the ad looks good, $ is right.
Again, have the coach inspected or ask for help here. Many of our members love to go look at coaches. (Don't we all?)
Good Luck with your search - Cheers Ric

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #39 – October 29, 2015, 12:06:22 pm

Quote from: AndiT1 – October 29, 2015, 07:05:50 am

Thanks to everyone for their input. Much more than I expected. I have printed out the replies, and they are much highlighted and notated.

If anyone knows of older Foretravels reasonably close to Austin, where I live, that might be contenders, I'd appreciate knowing about them. A 34' would be terrific (realize there aren't many out there), a 36' is really the max size I'd want.

And what are your thoughts about Unihomes versus Unicoaches? I've never driven a bus front so don't know how they compare.

I've also been told that there are some of you that have the FTXs. I'd love to talk about that, as we had two (a 35' gas and a 38' diesel), and the 38' was my favorite of the five Foretravels that we owned. Is it still possible to find something that old in acceptable shape?

Bob, The older stainless steel case heaters that do NOT have an electronic control board operate as you described. A set of thermostats diesel and a set for the electric element. Electric comes on sooner than the diesel and then the diesel if the electric can not keep up.

Sounds like your 38' FTX was pre 85? The six bolt wheel chassis rode beautifully. 22,500 GVW

I

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #40 – November 02, 2015, 01:00:54 pm

I would be a bit concerned taking my ol' man's late model class C out right now, but if would load up our '89 and take off cross country without the slightest worry. Shop patiently and the right one will come along.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #41 – November 02, 2015, 07:07:23 pm

We just blasted back and forth to Port Aransas from the Texas Hill Counrty in our '95 without a sneeze! Good ride of 400 miles in air-conditioned comfort. Our newly-widowed buddy needed to de-commission their boat and our coach made it easy to move lots of gear in a quiet environment. What a luxury the Foretravels can be. And a comfort.

I'm a bit off topic, but our older coach came through for us. (I'll be back, posting white-knuckled and stalled in West Hubcap, USA again, but for now, I am thrilled with the old coach.) All the best, Paul

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #42 – November 04, 2015, 01:12:52 pm

Yes, our old 38' FTX was a 1983 with the old Oshkosh chassis. Had a horribly underpowered Detroit diesel, but we loved it enough to have Foretravel redo the interior for us, and we restriped the exterior ourselves (in a nice brown instead of the orange) and had the bottom painted to match.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #43 – November 04, 2015, 01:28:06 pm

Love to see the pics if you have any.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #44 – November 04, 2015, 02:06:17 pm

Quote from: coastprt – November 04, 2015, 01:28:06 pm

Love to see the pics if you have any.

Call me old fashioned, but I sure love the style of our coaches!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #45 – November 04, 2015, 03:11:51 pm

Seems you know just what you want in size etc. We have a '95 U320. After having it serviced we took it down to the Gulf from Chicago via the Air Force One factory, over 1,000 miles without a thought of it giving problems. Don't worry about age or mileage. Proper maintenance and repair along with regular use is what matters. Have it inspected by someone knowledgeable with these coaches. Brett Wolf is in your area I believe. Also the old adage of "If you don't have it it can't break" holds true. A non slide, non aqua-hot might work better for you. Then we have gas furnaces but use a couple of electric heaters most of the time. Fits my cheap Yorkshire tastes!

Keith

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #46 – November 04, 2015, 03:18:32 pm

Quote from: Keith and Joyce – November 04, 2015, 03:11:51 pm

Then we have gas furnaces but use a couple of electric heaters most of the time.

We have a couple of liquid-filled electric radiators that we use (even down here it will freeze). They are quiet and seem to not consume much power.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #47 – November 05, 2015, 06:50:19 am

Ah gee, wish I did have those pictures, but unfortunately, my ex ended up with those after the divorce...

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #48 – November 05, 2015, 11:42:05 am

I will tell you a pretty amazing story about the ol' gal, though. When we finally decided to trade for a 1992 36' Grand Villa (3208 Cat), we moved all of our stuff from our '83 to our '92 in the back lot of the dealer, after which my husband moved our old coach out front before it had been cleaned up, and in less than an hour, someone had stopped, checked her out and wanted to take her for a test drive. Because the dealer hadn't had her long enough to really know her very well yet, they came and got my husband to do the test drive with the customer and answer questions. Not sure if that couple ended up buying her or not, but that's just how good she looked, inside and out.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #49 – November 08, 2015, 09:41:02 pm

You can find lots of older Foretravels on Craigslist and can search nationwide at Craigslist Search Engine: Easily Search ALL of Craigslist. I boondock almost 100% of the time so I appreciate the propane appliances Foretravel installed before they switched everything over to electric. The cost of solar panels has come down to the point where they pay for themselves very quickly.
I use a Verizon Jetpack for internet access and am very happy with their coverage and rates. I use Google Voice for free phone service.
If any of you single gals want to meet up for a cup of coffee I'll be in Laughlin, NV for the next few months.

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