Buying a (much) older Foretravel

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Buying a (much) older Foretravel

October 27, 2015, 06:54:29 am

I was previously a full-time RVer (12 years). During that period, the only RV we ever owned was a Foretravel. I am now a divorced woman, and decided to get back into full-timing, so I bought a small (25 ft.) 2016 class C. Have decided I made a mistake in the size/quality of what I bought and am now looking longingly at older Foretravels. I don't have the resources to buy anything even close to new, so what I've been looking at are coaches in the 15- to 20-year-old range. My question is how old is too old when it comes to buying a Foretravel (especially when you're someone who doesn't have a lot of mechanical know how, so would have to depend on professionals for a lot of repair/maintenance work)?

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #1 – October 27, 2015, 07:24:30 am

Andi, welcome to the forum! FT is the only way to go, I shopped around for quality & space too, am a single woman & my coach will be 19 in February.....a few people have even asked me if she's new (other brand owners). Once you get done doing all the basic stuff, depending on a lot of factors/condition when you buy, you'll have a 1st class coach & you won't regret getting quality. I shopped a long time then found this forum & the whole world finally opened up. Lots of wonderful people & help here.

Fixing her up was a tad bit more costly in my case since she'd sat for 8 years in the Florida sun, (not good for a diesel), & had never been upgraded, so I re-did her inside & out & she's beautifully updated, last major item will be headlights & tail lights to make her look practically new again!

Anyway, tell us where you're located & maybe there will be some coaches in your area you can look at...stay on the forum, talk to some other happy FT owners, keep asking questions, check out the classifieds, don't give up...have patience & the right coach will turn up for you. If you're full timing, there are a lot of folks here who are as well, great decision to go with another FT.

Glad you're here!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #2 – October 27, 2015, 08:48:08 am

Look at the Dallas craigslist area,there are a few foretravels,one wants to trade for a class c.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #3 – October 27, 2015, 08:59:53 am

Welcome to the Forum! You are in the right place, and asking the right questions. IMO, the key to buying a good older coach is to know the history. If you buy from a knowledgeable owner who has kept up with the required maintenance and repairs, you are much more likely to get a good one. A coach that is used regularly is much more desirable than one that "sits" all the time. You have to exercise the systems and components - if you don't, they get cranky. Don't be fooled by "pretty" cosmetics - it is the mechanical and electrical parts underneath the skin that need to be in good shape.

If you don't feel qualified to asses the mechanical condition of a potential purchase, try to get some help. When we were shopping, by having someone else (Brett Wolfe) do an inspection we avoided buying a coach that looked great, but turned out to have many "hidden" problems. On our 2nd try at buying, we found the perfect coach (for us), and it was/is a jewel! We have never regretted our purchase, even though it was 20 years old with 150,000 miles when we got it. Old, well used and cared for Foretravel coaches can be a terrific bargain - you just need to shop carefully.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #4 – October 27, 2015, 09:20:15 am

Look for a 1999 36' U-270 that has been regularly used and maintained. Good size, low complexity. Or the rare odd 34'

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #5 – October 27, 2015, 09:37:33 am

If you shop carefully then you should be able to find a mid-to-late 90s Foretravel in excellent condition. We've had our 1995 for almost three years, and except for replacing the refrigerator cooling unit, we've had no significant problems. However, that was because the previous owners took exceedingly good care of it and maintained excellent records.

Keep looking and shop carefully and I think you'll find the right one!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #6 – October 27, 2015, 10:33:34 am

I agree with Tim, late 98 or 99's are a very good vintage. A little bit more than the 95-97 but they will perhaps will have less issues to deal with in the first year or two. 36' is a very comfortable size. And Chuck's post as well. I have seen some very well cared for and perfectly capable 93-95 U280s and U300s.

Keep asking and learning. The more you know the better buyer you will be. Good hunting.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #7 – October 27, 2015, 10:37:15 am

If your budget easily allowed for a 2016 class C, you should be able to get a foretravel and pay for a lot of repairs before you approach the money invested in that brand new class C. repairs arent cheap, but an old foretravel is, and even if you can do the minor things yourself, its a huge money saver.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #8 – October 27, 2015, 10:50:52 am

Dual pain Windows, ducted air, smart wheel

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #9 – October 27, 2015, 10:56:30 am

MOT currently has 3 or 4 in that category.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #10 – October 27, 2015, 11:17:43 am

I am not entirely sure that the age of the coach is an accurate indicator of its desirability. These are not like cars or pickup trucks where mileage is often used to determine condition and pricing. Typically, a motor home is used on an ad hoc basis and usually for longer trips where the lubricants all get warmed up nicely.

If I were going to start looking seriously I would consider these factors but not necessarily in the order they're placed in:

1. Appearance (including obvious leaks, needed repairs, age, mileage, how it has been stored, maintenance records, trip records, attention to known issues for that model;

2. How long the seller has owned the coach and why he/she is selling;

3. Body style, colors, length, height, width, weight, slides, engine make and hp, transmission type;

4. Upgrades like solar, laundry, HDTVs, satellite tv, Banks, PacBrake;

5. Things that can be easily changed like tires, decals, paint, etc.;

A coach in the late 80s and early 90s will be narrower. Some will be considerable lighter (U225 and U240 for instance). Overall height, width, weight and body style can have an impact on fuel consumption, wind effects and maneuverability in tight places (and low bridges). Foretravels built before about 1996 are more likely to have the streamline look and a mid-entry door. For some of us these are important.

Other than preferring Foretravel, most of us have different ideas on all of the above. But I would not automatically cross off the Unihome styles of the late 1980s and early 1990s. For one thing, they can be bought at excellent prices and they are mostly easy to work on.

Welcome to the forum.

Craig

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #11 – October 27, 2015, 11:22:53 am

Just throwing this out there,do we stay away from the "salvage title",the ones I have seen lately are hi priced.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #12 – October 27, 2015, 11:31:19 am

There is no bad Foretravel- agree with everything you said 1999 is my preference for low

Electronic engine with no emissions control, modern Cummings four stroke, durable and service everywhere Mo slide or auquahot (yes I have and love both but they do add maintenance expense and hassle) 8 airbag suspension with auto level Improvements in AC ducting
Dual pane Windows

Foretravel quality at height of execution Model had been built for years, so most bugs worked out Plentiful production leaves many examples to choose from Modern bus style look - love the GV (had one) so this is personal preference item Many nice examples in the 30-45k range Again, no bad ones, and nothing wrong with a 6v92 1993 Unihome, but since we were asked, I just chose to get pretty specific. If our new member wants a slide or Awuahot, then a U-320 or 2000-2001 would be suggested If the budget was $25 or less, than a 1993-95 Unicoach might be just the ticket But for simple, reliable and lower maintenance that was my suggestion Your other points are spot on. Used or stored? Care for or neglected)? clean and pristine vs. tired? Regular maintenance with documentation vs no record of maintenance. Amen!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #13 – October 27, 2015, 11:32:43 am

John

Use the search function on the forum for "salvage title" and read those prior threads, lots of good stuff already on forum on this topic.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #14 – October 27, 2015, 11:46:46 am

Welcome!! Well our FT is our first MH after years of pulling a trailer around. As some have already said look for someone that has taken care of their FT. Records, evidence of love lol.....We lucked out and our previous owner had ours for 21 years and had some not all of the records. Our 1989 has had a few issues but nothing major or out of line in the maintenance schedule. We love our older coach! Happy hunting!!

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #15 – October 27, 2015, 01:43:11 pm

99's had an larger capacity dash heat and Air conditioning units installed. Serious summer desert use that may be an advantage.

Plus a 10k tow versus 97 and 98's 6k capacity

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #16 – October 27, 2015, 04:15:03 pm

Catfishbob,
Glad to see hat tidbit, the dash a/c does nice job in hot summer wx.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #17 – October 27, 2015, 04:37:42 pm

Not to be negative but sometimes even when you think that you have done it right........

As shared before:

We purchased our coach from the wife of a departed FoFum member who owned the coach for 8 years and his repair and maintenance records were impeccable. She even had a major "reputable" RV dealer perform a PDI that generated pages of repair items on work orders. She invested many CBs for repairs - hoses, belts, fluids and lots of other stuff. Having the maint. and repair records as well as the PDI and repair work orders, I felt pretty sure that all of the bases were covered. Unfortunately the coach did sit for two years and many of the things that appeared on the PDI repair work orders had not been fixed or repaired appropriately, even thought the wife paid for them. Due to lack of use, a number of things failed soon after we exercised her.

I am not sure how exactly one would go about finding a MH with a guarantee that everything is OK. The condition is a relative matter. New does not mean "trouble free as old does not mean "lots of repairs".

Learn as much as you can about our brand and then start to look at some asking as many questions to the owner (preferably) or the sales guy. If you do not feel comfortable keep walking. You might walk past the one of your dreams that is trouble free or get one that needs lots of attention. Keep in mind the 10 CBs that FoFum members keep referring to for repairs/upgrades after you take possession of your coach. You will probably spend it. Some here have purchased their coaches and have been relative problem free. Others such as ourselves have not. We are not complaining - we love our Ol' Girl and feel it is our responsibility to take as good of care of her as we can - as did our previous owner.

Welcome to the forum.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #18 – October 27, 2015, 06:25:38 pm

To put things in perspective: Buying an old coach is like getting a new spouse without seeing a medical/psychological evaluation first. Even then there may be things wrong that won't show up for awhile.
You spin the wheel and take your chances.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #19 – October 27, 2015, 06:36:12 pm

On the old coach or the new spouse, also check the financial statement....... Then spin the wheel.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #20 – October 27, 2015, 07:08:38 pm

I used "zoomthelist" which if you enter foretravel as the search term will bring up every foretravel listed on craigslist nationwide. Actually you can find anything. Be patient . Get a feel for the market. We're very happy with the 99 270 we found. Good luck.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #21 – October 27, 2015, 07:29:18 pm

Welcome to the fun, Andi! We're full-timing in a 1993 Foretravel U300 40' coach. We're the third owners (custodians) and enjoy it. We've had a few issues as we took a coach from one that didn't move much for several years to one that is in constant use. You already know about checking the date codes on the tires and batteries and all the rest. Check out Foretravel Specifications, Floor Plans, Photos & Brochures by Year for the various floor plans and specs. Then check out Luxury Pre-Owned Motorhome Dealer for Foretravel Newell Country Coach. for coaches that are for sale. Of course, the classifieds here will also have some. Foretravel Motorcoach - Custom Handcrafted Luxury Since 1967 has some newer coaches that may or may not be above your budget.

As you well know, when you find one you like, make an offer of what YOU think it is worth TO YOU. The worst that can happen is the seller will laugh at you. Big deal. You might just get the coach you want at the price you want.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #22 – October 27, 2015, 07:43:27 pm

Quote from: AndiT1 – October 27, 2015, 06:54:29 am

I don't have the resources to buy anything even close to new, so what I've been looking at are coaches in the 15- to 20-year-old range. My question is how old is too old when it comes to buying a Foretravel (especially when you're someone who doesn't have a lot of mechanical know how, so would have to depend on professionals for a lot of repair/maintenance work)?

Okay, that's a pretty straightforward question. Here's the way I see it. I'm getting the impression that you're not wanting to get into an "open checkbook" ownership situation, and given that you won't be doing your own repairs and maintenance, will tailor my answer to this assumption.

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.

Engine wise, the mechanical Cummins 8.3 has a reputation as a very simple, durable engine with no electronics. Unless you're a gearhead, planning on pulling a heavy toad, a speed demon (my turtle is faster than yours

there's no advantage to the higher horsepower electronic engine. They will both do the same job. There are other engines including Cat and Detroit but I'm not qualified to comment on them.

What year? Well, for the Unicoaches, non slide models, 97,98,99 are the high demand years and good examples command a relative premium. You can get more coach by buying a 96 though it lacks dual pane windows, ducted air, the entry door is an inch or so narrower but no true functional difference.

Earlier year models prior to the Unicoach, are where the real bargains lie. These elegant looking coaches (they have a sloped front), it's possible to find a near perfect model that a prior owner has upgraded, pampered and improved. The perception of them due to age (over 20 years) limits their value, this is to your advantage. These Grand Villa styles, I'd give them strong consideration. GV owners tend to be a little fanatical about their coaches, and for good reason. They are fully depreciated, get one in good shape, buy it right, take care of it, and you'll not go far wrong.

I would strongly advise you to take your time, take advantage of the generous nature of the folks on this forum, make some decisions regarding budget for purchase, and ask folks here to keep an eye out for a particularly nice and well cared for coach. That's a whole lot more important than year model.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #23 – October 27, 2015, 08:05:12 pm

It is truly how your luck is running I guess, For me, I purchased my 2001 from MOT about 8 yrs ago, it had been a garage kept puppy, still is, for the first 5 years, the only money I spent on it was for upgrades and oil changes. So I am the happy camper as they say. Dependability is key.

Re: Buying a (much) older Foretravel

Reply #24 – October 27, 2015, 09:22:50 pm

Welcome, AndiT! We're honking along in a twenty year old beauty and loving it. Chuck's post above really sums up our feelings well. If you can pay about Ten Cents on the Dollar (MSRP in old 1990's Bucks) and budget some fix-up money (the Ten Coach Bucks may be about right)...and allow for an emergency fund (Fuel line$ in my case) you should be alright, providing you checked out the coach well, perhaps using a professional.

Great products as you know. Long history. And the best part for me has been all the help I have asked for on this Forum—and received! I feel very fortunate to cruise across our country in one of these well-designed old Babies. (Can we still say Babies??)

BTW, Motorhomes of Texas, and other businesses, always have a few, newer Class C coaches that have similar stories as your coach. All the best! Paul

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