Yahoo Message Number: 156407 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156407)
Because of all you LD enthusiasts, I've -finally- decided to find my own, well traveled LD. I can't thank you enough. All my lurking has been worth every minute. Because I plan to full-time, I was worried about getting claustrophobic moving from a house into a small rv but, I realized something. It's the house that's small, not the rv.
So, in my hunt for my first rv, ever, how old dare I go?
Thanks to a great group of people!
Yahoo Message Number: 156408 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156408)
Hi.
Not sure where you're from but right now on Ebay, there seems to be a heck of possible deal going on. A person in New Jersey listed a 2003 30' IB, 44,000 Low Miles with NO RESERVE price. From all indications its in great shape, but if it were me and I lived anywhere close to NJ I'd run over for an inspection before bidding. Only 5 days left on the auction and high bid is currently $7,600!
There's also a cute little 1991 22 footer listed with very low miles and a ton of photos, but it has a Swamp Cooler instead of A/C.
Bud (in Ohio... for now)
Please click on my blog link below and follow! ItsJustBudsStuff: http://ohiobudd.blogspot.com
Yahoo Message Number: 156409 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156409)
We recently went through the same search for our Lazy Daze 27 MB. After we decided that we wanted a LD, our next criteria was to find a floor plan that would suit our travel plans and lifestyle. Next, we used the information at http://www.andybaird.com/travels/LD-guide-web/changes.htm (http://www.andybaird.com/travels/LD-guide-web/changes.htm) to decide which model years had upgrades and features that we found important. After we decided on a floor plan and a range of model years that we wanted, we focused on LD's that had been properly and regularly maintained with most documentation. Finally, we planned to search for 6-9 months and prepared ourselves to travel anywhere in the lower 48 states. Btw, that travel and coordination plan can be quite a project all by itself!
Our next and last step turned out to be the most important. We asked members of this LD Yahoo group for their help as we checked 4-5 RV search websites everyday. We hope this information can be helpful to you.
Ed & Margee Fort Worth
Yahoo Message Number: 156411 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156411)
We are glad you have found this forum helpful, Opuntia (is that your name?.-we encourage folks to sign their posts with a name). Is your question how to go about finding a used Lazy Daze? Where to find used LD listings, etc.? Clarify that for us and I'm sure you will get some responses.
Chris
Yahoo Message Number: 156412 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156412)
My personal recommendation would be to try for one with the one-piece aluminum roof and fiberglass (windowless) front cap.. I believe that would be 1990 or newer.
But I have seen some very nice units from the mid eighties that I would be proud to own.
Yahoo Message Number: 156413 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156413)
Man, that 1991 22' is just like mine only NICER. I thought mine was in excellent condition but THAT one is like new! If I was in a better position I would buy that one and sell mine! New owner.will be lucky.
(although I do like my twin king setup better than the rear lounge :) )
Yahoo Message Number: 156415 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156415)
We have an 87 on a 86 chassis.
I think 87 Chevy chassis are the first for fuel injection. I'd go for fuel injection.
Sent by iPhone
Yahoo Message Number: 156418 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156418)
"...in my hunt for my first rv, ever, how old dare I go?" --- Age is only one of several critical factors used to judge whether a used rig is a good buy and whether it's a good buy *for you* and a fit for your intended use. In your case, this use is apparently fulltiming, and since whatever you get will be your home, I hope you will take the time and opportunity to learn as much as you can before making a choice.
I suggest starting your hunt with number; how much can you afford to pay for a motorhome? Factor in a "cushion" for the inevitable repairs and/or "immediate need" component replacements, e.g., tires; unless you are very lucky, it's very likely that whatever you buy will need some degree of TLC. Use these figures to get a model and year range that will work for your situation. For example, if the purchase and "fix/replace" figure is $25,000, use the "LD Asking Prices 2015" as a *general guide* to the year and models in that price range. (This file is in the "Buying and Selling" folder linked from the message board.)
If you have certain needs or wants in a rig, e.g., engine, floor plan, etc., check this link:
http://www.andybaird.com/travels/LD-guide-web/changes.htm
The primer "How Do I Shop for a Used LD?" will be helpful, as will this checklist of what to look for when buying a used RV. Some points, e.g., slides, don't apply to Lazy Dazes, but the list is a good comprehensive tool for inspecting a used rig.
http://changingears.com/rv-checklist-inspection.shtml
Haunt the RV classified sites: the For Sale section on the LD message board, RV Trader, Oodle, eBay, RVonline, Craig's List, etc. Quite a few LDs in several locations; decide if you prepared to travel to check out a "live one", or if you want to limit your search to a specific location or area. You will very likely pay more buying from a dealer than from a private seller, and any after-sale "protection" may be as "unicorn-like" from a dealer as from a private seller.
There's a lot more to the process, but this should get you started on the learning curve ;-) Lazy Dazes are great rigs of high initial build quality, but like any other RV, they can have "warts", particularly if they have not been diligently and consistently maintained and serviced over their lifetimes.
Good luck!
Joan
Yahoo Message Number: 156420 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156420)
Fuel injection happened for 1987 Chevy cabs with a 350 (I believe the 454 also got TBI that same year, but did LD use the bigger engine in the Chevy's)?
On the Ford side, 1988 cabs got fuel injection on the 460.
I agree that fuel injection was a game changer for driveability (specifically with large elevation changes) for reliability, and milage was a good bit better too. I wouldn't say no to a charger model, but my strong preference is for fuel injection, even the rudimentary systems seen in the 1980's and early 1990's.
"Linda Kelly lrkelly889@... [lifewithalazydazerv]" wrote:
We have an 87 on a 86 chassis.
I think 87 Chevy chassis are the first for fuel injection. I'd go for fuel injection.
Sent by iPhone
Yahoo Message Number: 156421 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156421)
We just finished my "Post Retirement" travels in our 1997 23.5 LD. Logged a little over 14,300 miles, and the last trip we slept on board 103 nights. We have over 110,000 miles on our rig now, tight as ever, and doesn't use any oil. We've been pretty impressed with her!
Don
Yahoo Message Number: 156423 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156423)
Are these stories posted somewhere that we can read them?
Virtual hugs,
Judie http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com (http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com)
Yahoo Message Number: 156424 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156424)
Hi Bud,
I'm in SoCal. I'm on the fence about the size. I think 30 might be nicer for me than 26.5 but, since I'll be towing my Element, maybe shorter is better? I want to hit National Parks so with a car, will the rig be too long?
Yahoo Message Number: 156426 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156426)
Hi Ed and Margee,
Thank you for that great information! How do you know if the rig has been well maintained? Can a regular car mechanic look over an RV and know what kind of shape it's in, or are there LD specialists who are willing to look one over? It is a little scary buying one alone because I'm such a newbie. I guess the engine and water leaks are the first things to check out, from what I've read.
Andy's website has been wonderful! I started with http://www.coxontool.com/ (http://www.coxontool.com/) and that's how I found Andy's site. I was on the fence about full-timing, then I found John's site. He eloquently described why he started full-timing and it gave me pause. He described exactly what I felt. Then I went to Andy's site and found more support for my decision. They also provided the support I needed to settle on a Lazy Daze. Thank you John and Andy!http://www.coxontool.com/ (http://www.coxontool.com/)
I think I've settled on the floor plan, but I plan to make some major changes to it anyway. For resale, I have to be careful there, but I also want to be comfortable since I'll be living in it. Do you think 30' with a car in tow is too long since I want to stay in National Parks most of the time?
Thank you for the great information.
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156427 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156427)
Hi Chris,
I'm sorry about the name. I forgot. Opuntia Potwell is my nursery business name. Mimi is my real name. No, it's not a nickname. :-)
I'm expecting to go full time in a year or so. I'd like to find my LD within about 8 months. I'm trying to give myself time to first, find the right one for me and then, have time to remodel it a bit. It's difficult to find one to look at in person. My neighbor has Andy's model (I think John has the same model) so that's the only one I've ever seen, in person.
I have found quite a lot of LD's for sale, all over the country, but I'm concerned about buying one without having a professional look it over. John Coxon describes his LD leaking. He knew what he was doing in locating it and resolving the issue. I'd like to avoid that if I can. I can do minor repairs, but the problem involves water running down electrical wires, I'd probably move to a hotel.:-) That said, I like the E450 engine, I think, with an addition that improves mpg and power (can't remember the name of it), so I thought I'd start there. Does that make any sense at all?:-)
Thank you for your help.
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156428 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156428)
You know, I read something about the front window on the front overhead cap having a potential for leaking. Thank you for the reminder and the date range. I would like to avoid that front window, if possible. I thought they all came with a one-piece aluminum roof. Wow...I'm glad you said something. I've seen some 1970's LD's on the Internet that are just beautiful, running like a charm with no issues but, I think for me, maybe a bit newer would be better. I was thinking of late 90's early 2000. I wanted the E450 engine. I like power! lol
Thank you for the great information.
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156429 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156429)
...if you plan to drive a fossil fueled engine, go fuel injected gas or diesel powered...no carburetor as they are simple but less fuel efficient...around 1989 there was a mega shift from carbs to fuel injection...so it depends on your miles per year!
Yahoo Message Number: 156430 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156430)
Hi Linda,
Thanks. Are they all fuel injection after 1987? Do you get more power with fuel injection?
Thanks!
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156431 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156431)
Hi Joan,
Great guidance for a naive newbie. Thank you. I am taking my time. I've allowed one year for this process and have immersed myself in this wonderful group, along with Andy's, John's and other LD sites.
I haven't yet figured out what to budget for a 25 year old, well maintained LD because there seems to be quite a range in pricing. I started to think that around 25-30k might buy me a decent older rig. Is that accurate? I want to remodel it, so the less initial expense, the better.
Thank you for all the great sites. I haven't checked out all of them yet, but I will. I do think I prefer a private seller vs, a dealer. I'd also like to find a rig with one owner, but I guess everyone wants that and few find it.
Thank you. I have a lot of investigating to do! What fun! :-)
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156432 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156432)
It's not so much a power issue as it a much more efficient system. An engine tends to start easier (no fickle choke to deal with), run smoother especially when cold, run better at altitude, and get better mileage. Carburetor maintenance, such as rebuilds, can be expensive assuming you can even find someone who will still work on one. Fuel injection is not a trouble free system but a major improvement over a carburetor. Avoid carburetors if at all possible. Frank
Yahoo Message Number: 156433 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156433)
Hi Jeff,
I know you weren't responding to me, but your comment about the charger vs fuel injection caught my eye. I read that the charger on the 454 was a huge improvement over previous engines not only for power, but for mpg. Why do you prefer fuel injection to the charger?
Thanks...
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156434 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156434)
Hi Don,
Congratulations on quite an accomplishment! 14.3K miles...wow. That's really something. You must have seen some beautiful places. Where did you find your rig, if you don't mind me asking?
Thanks.
Mimi
Yahoo Message Number: 156435 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156435)
lazy daze -directory site:craigslist.org
...in buying & selling rigs, I found using a craigslist directory search helped to educate myself regards $ relationship to age, quality, miles, etc.
...it seems to produce search results covering most of the USA.
...sometimes by tweaking the name of the product you are searching will produce additional results...ex- lazy daze motorhome, lazy daze coach, lazy daze RV, etc.
...recently found our newbie coach by this method...found it a couple hundred miles from home, our approximate search range.
...however studying values across our great land gave me additional purchasing confidence.
Best Wishes on your Good Hunt, Vaughn
Yahoo Message Number: 156436 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156436)
Hi Mimi,
We are really new to this as well. Still so much to learn (and experience!). As a couple, we chose the 30 footer for full-time living space. Heading out in May for that journey.
Towing a car with a 30' rig will definately limit where you can camp but most National Parks should be able to accommodate you. I've always been one to think that smaller is better and I know there are quite a few single people in this group who full-time in rigs under 27 feet. But for us, moving from a 1700 sq. ft. stick home, even the 30 footer seems small. LOL
Best wishes on this exciting time in your life!
Bud (in Ohio... for Now)
Please click on my blog link below and follow! ItsJustBudsStuff: http://ohiobudd.blogspot.com
Yahoo Message Number: 156437 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156437)
Do you think 30' with a car in tow is too long since I want to stay in National Parks most of the time? Even a 26 will limit your choice of sites in National Parks. The sites as a rule accommodate truck campers and the like. Also since you say you want to full-time, consider that National Parks have a two week stay limit. Usually enforced, but sometimes not too rigidly. Finally, National Parks usually do not have hook-ups. Are you prepared to dry camp?
Yahoo Message Number: 156438 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156438)
Hi Mimi:
You noted in one of your posts that you have only seen one floor plan and had some difficulty trying to find others to check out. You might want to consider attending a LD caravan get-together in the SoCal area. Most groups welcome wantabees on a specific day to look over the various LD models.
The Cal. groups have a website "lazydazecaravanclub.org" that includes upcoming dates for gatherings and lists some info. for first time visitors. The next meeting is December 2-6 in Santa Barbara.
Best wishes for success. Bob
Yahoo Message Number: 156440 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156440)
Mimi. You said and asked that "I haven't yet figured out what to budget for a 25 year old, well maintained LD because there seems to be quite a range in pricing. I started to think that around 25-30k might buy me a decent older rig. Is that accurate?" There is an important file located in the files folder at .https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/files/Buying%20and%20Selling/ (https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/files/Buying%20and%20Selling/). I have cut and pasted three (3) years of prices that at the top of your budget. The 1st column is for 23.5 LD, the middle is 26.5 LD, and the 3rd is a 30 LD.
20031232.00%$27,440 $29,520 $32,320 20021329.10%$24,954 $26,846 $29,392 20011426.46%$22,694 $24,414 $26,730
I have found this information to be fairly accurate especially when I took in consideration the condition of the coach and the truck's components (engine, transmission, tires, etc.), options, and additional equipment that is included in the motorhome. I also found that private sales often includes important (expensive) additional equipment than any dealer that I have visited. Hope this helps.
Ed & Margee Fort Worth
Yahoo Message Number: 156441 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156441)
So Mimi it is. Welcome to the hunt for an LD, Mimi. Another poster corrected me that opuntia was a kind of cactus and that it was unlikely anyone's name.
You asked about towing with a 30'. We have an '02 30' and tow a CR-V and prior to that, an Accord. No problem with rig or LD size in most national parks and many national forests. That said, my choice would be a 27' simply because it is a little shorter. We got the 30' because of the fixed bed. If you are traveling alone, you probably don't need the extra space found in a 30' although it is quite comfortable to travel in.
I strongly advise you not to buy any used LD sight unseen. Find a reputable mechanic or shop to inspect the LD before buying. If you see one you like and it's not near you, post the location and perhaps there is an LD owner who can recommend someone to inspect it.
As for the improvement in mpg and power, you may be referring to Banks Power add-ons that do just that - or are supposed to. Andy has added Banks devices to his LD and could probably tell you if the extra $ are worthwhile.
Chris
Yahoo Message Number: 156442 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156442)
"I wanted the E450 engine"
Just so you know...the E450 is the chassis, not the engine. The E450 comes with the V10 engine.
Linda Hylton
Yahoo Message Number: 156443 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156443)
We found our rig in LA, it was originally purchased by a family in El Cajon, CA who took care and maintained her since new. The couple in LA only had her a couple months before we purchased her about 13 months ago.
Don
Yahoo Message Number: 156444 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156444)
I'm in SoCal. I'm on the fence about the size. I think 30 might be nicer for me than 26.5 but, since I'll be towing my Element, maybe shorter is better? I want to hit National Parks so with a car, will the rig be too long?
Adding my 2 cents, even though I'm still a good 5-10 years from being a LD owner.
I've been driving RV's for most of my life, from driving the family GMC motorhome on the way to Florida when I was 16 back in 1977, through last year with a week's rental outside of Yellowstone. In between, rented 3 conventional class C (thankfully not from CruiseAmerica) over a 5 year span from 2004-2009, 4-5 weeks at a time, covering 14k miles total, touring the western National Parks from our home in Northern California. Family of five.
First trip was in a 24' Winnie with a slide out. Why not something larger for a family of five? We had been car camping for years prior, so from minivan and tents, 24' was very spacious. What I quickly found out during the first trip was how nimble a smaller RV was, and there were far more campsites available to a smaller rig. As well as fitting in to parking spaces that a van would fit into. Since we didn't tow, this was a huge bonus. The trip hooked me on RVs, particularly small ones.
Second trip, in 2006, put me on the LD path. I waited too long to reserve a rental for that year, and could only rent a 24C without a slide out. Bit disappointed, but the trip was more important than the gimmick. What was eye opening was that I didn't miss the slide, and actually preferred not having it. Coincidentally, camped next to this beautiful LD during our stay at Madison campground in Yellowstone. Never seen such large windows! The owner was very friendly, showing off his rig. Hooked from that point onward (looked up everything LD, subscribed here, purchased Andy's book, etc), and they have caught my eye every day since.
Last long rental was in 2009, also a 24C, no slide intentionally this time, even though my kids were quite a bit older didn't feel the need to upsize, and they aren't small kids to start with, current heights are 5'11" to 6'5". Firmly in the smaller is better camp, because of where it allows you to go and park. If I can handle 5 people for 5 weeks, I figure the size will be fine for my extended 4-6 month excursions at retirement, when its just 2. While I would like to fulltime for a few years, it will likely just be half years.
Haven't decided on whether to tow or not. Didn't feel the need to have one during the previous trips, again, the 24 is small enough to go pretty much where you want to do. But I may want a small Jeep, just to explore those middle of nowhere places.
I do occasionally look at sales of used 24' mid bath LD, and I have been tempted. But I just don't have the time to make owning one make any kinda sense. So I'll have to live vicariously through what I read here. :-)
Back to the original question, were it me, based on my travels to the western National Parks, I would go 24', and skip the Element tow. Sight seeing in a small RV is far superior to doing so in a car. You have your kitchen, bathroom, and bed with you everywhere you stop during the day. While I haven't needed a car on my trips, I always figured that if I really did need one, I could rent one nearby.
Ok, so this was more like 50 cents...
Dave
Yahoo Message Number: 156445 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156445)
"Andy has added Banks devices to his LD and could probably tell you if the extra $ are worthwhile."
Not for me. The power increase was barely discernible, and fuel economy was unaffected. Considering the $4,000+ cost, I didn't find the Banks upgrade cost-effective for me. But others here have it and like it, so this is just my opinion.
Andy Baird
Yahoo Message Number: 156446 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156446)
That was very interesting and helpful, Dave! One small correction. You wrote, "I do occasionally look at sales of used 24' mid bath LD..." The midbath model is either 26.5' (up through 2007) or 27' (2008 and later) long.
Andy Baird
Yahoo Message Number: 156447 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156447)
Bases on a lot of experience with LDs, I would save my money and find a used rig from the early to mid-2000s. These are the best built and have the best drivetrain of any of the LDs built previously.
Automotive technology made great advances in the 80s and 90s and the LDs from the early 2000s (and later ) benefit from it by having one of the most dependable driveline around, when treated correctly.
The early Chevy models are not as robust as the later models. The 350-V8 is inadequate for doing anything but pulling itself along slowly...I know, owned one for over eight years. The 350 is also a fairly short lived engine, compared to the later Ford V10s. The V10 is light-years away from the 350. While throttle-body injection was introduced to the 350 in 1987, the engine and 3-speed transmission were still old school. I n the 1991 model, the 350 received port-injection (a superior form of FI) and the new 4L80E 4-speed overdrive transmission.
In any LD, an overdrive transmission is needed to allow higher cruising speeds, while lowering engine RPM, reducing wear and fuel use. I wouldn't own one without it.
The other engine you will finding the Chevy-based LDs is the 454-V10. It's not a bad but it too is a very old, obsolete design.
The Chevy-based chassis is lighter-duty than the later Ford, especially the E450.
A big problem with engine work on these older rigs is finding old mechanics who understand the obsolete technology. Most younger mechanics have never worked on a carburetor or even the older forms of fuel injection, such as throttle bodies Also take into consideration that parts for old vehicles are becoming harder to find and the quality of available parts is slipping as more domestic OEM parts manufacturers have moved their operations to the cheaper parts of the world.
The 30' models are very roomy for an individual but keep in mind just how low the cargo capacity is in any of the 30-31" models. While few will admit it, I have been inside of many 30-31' models that are 1000-2000-lbs overweight. There is way too much storage for the available amount of cargo capacity.
For full timing, a shorter model, with more available CCC, would be preferable.
Remember, all E450s have the same GVW.
Be very careful buying an antique LD, there are many potential problems that, unseen, can destroy your investment. One advanced case of unseen rot can cost many thousand to repair, sometimes the repair cost can exceed the value of the LD. We have seen many examples of this here over the last 14 years.
Old motorhome are just that, old. Most of us would be cautious buy a 25 year old house or car but many see few potential problems buying a very old LD...yes anything built in the 80s is very old.
Professional inspection of both the coach and chassis can save you many thousands and a lot of headaches.
Do take Joan's advice and have a good size cash cushion to use to rehabilitate whatever LD you buy and to take care of the problems that will develop over time.
Hey, no one ever said RVing was going to be cheap...it isn't.
Larry
Yahoo Message Number: 156448 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156448)
I agree with Bob's suggestion to visit the CC outing at Live Oak County Park in early December. If one is seriously looking for an LD and comparing model years and floor plans and lives close enough to make a day trip, this outing is the place to see a variety of sizes, models, and ages of LDs in one spot. Owners are usually happy to do "show and tell" (ask, of course!) on their rigs.
The Caravan Club website (Bob provided the link) contains all the details for this get-together. It's not necessary to have an RV or camp with the group; just show up, tell the people at the host tent what you're there for, and check it out.
Joan
Yahoo Message Number: 156450 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156450)
Larry, your comments below are an excellent tutorial for someone looking for a used LD. I didn't think you'd mind if I placed your message in the Files section under Frequently Asked Questions entitled "Buying a Used Lazy Daze".
Chris
Yahoo Message Number: 156451 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156451)
I should add that in addition to Larry's comments, also in the FAQ section is an entry called "How to Shop for a Used LD" by Andy Baird. The two complement each other quite well.
And while talking about files, for those of you looking for information about anything Lazy Daze, be sure to peruse the Files and Links sections. There is a wealth of information there which really answers many of the "newbie" questions. Of course, this doesn't mean you should not feel free to ask any question you might have.
Chris
Yahoo Message Number: 156452 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156452)
I think Chevy chassis from 1987 on have fuel injection. I think my biggest hint is that the motor home year may not be the chassis year.
Sent by iPhone
Yahoo Message Number: 156453 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156453)
I will add a caveat to the RV for sight-seeing ability. The overhang on a Class C greatly restricts your ability to see up. If you just want to look straight out you are OK. But go into something like the Redwood National Forest where you want to see the big trees and you will wish you had the toad.
Dick
Yahoo Message Number: 156454 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156454)
Dave makes some excellent points. Here's what thirty years of RV'ing has taught me . . .
There is no one solution that will fit everyone. Each party must evaluate their most important features of RV'ing and deal with them.
For RV's, we have had:
1978 Volkswagen Campmobile (two years) 1987 Volkswagen Westfalia (four years) 1991 40-foot Teton fifth wheel (did not travel in this unit; just lived in it) (four years) 1985 22-foot Lazy Daze TK (Gertie) (ten years) 1999 40-foot Mountain Aire diesel pusher (eight years) 1998 18-foot Sportsmobile Penthouse top campervan (still have it; 13 years and counting) 2005 26.5-foot Lazy Daze RB (Dorrie Anne) (still have it; six years and counting)
Each was perfect for the time and use that we had for it. We still have and (seldom) use the last two units.
Looking back . . . which unit did we use the most? When we were younger (and more supple), the Volkswagen campers seemed fine, and we zipped around all over California on weekends and vacations, using coolers for our film and food and a pile of tripods for our cameras - no refrigerator, bathroom facilities, AC or heat! OY!
When Gertie came along, it was like a palace! WOW!
With each subsequent year of advancing age (ours), though, our energy level seemed to decrease, and we did less and less camping. So it is hard to say if/how the camping unit itself played into our RV'ing lifestyle. We are as much of a factor as any particular unit.
But . . . for a fact . . . it IS a lot easier to travel about with a smaller rig; while more comfortable to stay put in a larger one, and when we had the large one, that's exactly what we did. When we had the 40-foot diesel pusher, we stayed for months at a time in a venue, shooting out in the Sportsmobile for shorter trips to surrounding areas. It was a great compromise, and we had planned to continue in this vein for at least twenty years.
But as happens all too often, six years into this plan, illness struck and we were grounded. Since we don't get out in even the Lazy Daze RB and Sportsmobile as much as we would like, I am looking around for a more spacious Class B that we can take on our now much shorter trips, and not need to pilot two separate vehicles, and be able to share the driving and other chores.
As of this moment,
Would a shorter Lazy Daze fill this bill? Not sure. We traveled for ten years in Gertie without a toad, but not sure that we would want to do that again at this later age and physical (dis)abilities.
Would love to hear from others with possibly this same dilemma - how are you handling the situation?
Virtual hugs,
Judie http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com (http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com)
Yahoo Message Number: 156455 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156455)
I agree with Larry regarding parts. My husband is the mechanic of the family so I can't be real precise, but we had an issue with the air conditioning this summer and after an exhaustive search was unable to find some kind of tiny vacuum hose? Life is good because the cold air still comes out of the vents in the front of the dash, but no longer from the vents in the front panel.
Yahoo Message Number: 156456 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156456)
Thanks Andy!
I really meant the 24' Twin King Bed, which has the bath in the mid/front. Sorry about the confusion.
Yahoo Message Number: 156458 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156458)
Just a correction. The 454 is a V8 not a V10. It is highly prone to exhaust manifold warping due to high exhaust temps.
John A Wozniak Sent from iPhone Please excuse any typos
Yahoo Message Number: 156459 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156459)
Buying a rig that old is a pretty scary proposition especially when you have no experience. It isn't so much a remodel as, possibly, a rebuild. If your heart is set on an "antique" then that is a reason to do it. Otherwise, save you money and buy something newer. The newer the better. Frank
Yahoo Message Number: 156460 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156460)
"If you just want to look straight out you are OK."
---- I try to do this when I'm driving.... ;-)
Joan
Yahoo Message Number: 156463 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156463)
Further to my last post: it's also worth pointing out that the Banks kit makes your rig's exhaust noisier--not inside, but outside, where it could potentially annoy other campers if you're pulling in late at night. Taking the positive view, Motorhome Magazine calls it a "muscular, authoritative rumble." It's up to you whether you think that's a plus. I don't.
Andy Baird
Yahoo Message Number: 156464 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156464)
4000+ dollars for the Banks system seems steep. I wonder if something else could be done for that amount like adapting the 3 valve heads from the newer V-10's.
I have nothing against Banks parts. The Banks exhaust header and stinger system are installed on my Jeep. The sound is good and the power increase was very noticeable especially on the freeway. The cylinder head modifications I had done made the biggest difference though.
The bottom line is power cost money. How fast do you want to spend?
bobmoore14
Area 51, NV. for a few...
Yahoo Message Number: 156465 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156465)
3 valve head is not really an option I believe due to heat issues with the e350/450 engine compartment. But a pi head swap with the lower intake and cpu reprogramming from 5 Star on a 1997-2001 would be significant with the headers. With over 200k miles on mine I have been considering this when/if I need to rebuild the engine.
-Craig
Yahoo Message Number: 156466 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156466)
Further to my last post: it's also worth pointing out that the Banks kit makes your rig's exhaust noisier--not inside, but outside, where it could potentially annoy other campers if you're pulling in late at night. Taking the positive view, Motorhome Magazine calls it a "muscular, authoritative rumble." It's up to you whether you think that's a plus. I don't.
Andy Baird
Blasphemy!!
Who would complain about the throaty rumble of a V10 at 1 O'clock in the morning?
Okay, unless you have your foot in it, at typical slow maneuvering speed it's not all that loud, it is muffled, sort of a low rumble. I like it (buy you knew that :c).
Is it worth $4K? Well it does improve mileage slightly, and it makes a very noticeable difference when climbing a grade. If I didn't have it, I'd buy it again - - but then I've always used my, "Man's Formula for Purchase Decisions on Tools and Toys".
"Want x Need = Buy"
Please note that a small amount of need, with a whole lot of want, still equals buy.
I have the wife convinced that tools are off budget as far as one's toy account is concerned.
(For purposes of this formula, a tool is defined as anything that could possibly be used to make money. It doesn't matter whether or not it ever does make money, only that is has that innate potential.)
bumper
Yahoo Message Number: 156467 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156467)
I can think of a few forum members who have removed the Bank's chip when it screws up and either makes the engine run poorly or it starts setting "Check engine" codes.
It can get very complicated if problems occur when the MH is still under warranty.
Ford will blame any problem on the Banks system, seen it happen more than once.
The 3-valve V10 heads are much taller than the 2-valve heads and will not fit in the E450's engine bay.
Too bad since it gets better mileage, along with the extra power. This engine is found in Ford Class As.
Larry
Yahoo Message Number: 156468 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156468)
I think that particular one has been listed several times, as the bids never reache his Reserve Price. Not sure how much is asking for it. Even though I already own an LD, I still love looking for them on the internet, especially on Ebay where I can watch the bidding process. LOL
Yahoo Message Number: 156469 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156469)
Thanks, John. I corrected the typo.
Chris
Yahoo Message Number: 156470 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156470)
When we were searching for our LD, being from Ohio we knew that we had to expand our searches. So, I used a site that searches all of Craigslist. You can customize it as to the distance from your location if you're limited on how far you're wiling to go to look at one. It's called SearchTempest. SearchTempest: Search all of Craigslist nationwide & more (http://www.searchtempest.com)
Yahoo Message Number: 156471 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/lifewithalazydazerv/conversations/messages/156471)
Respectfully, a 2008 or later has significant Ford improvements to engine & chassis plus a bunch of Lazy Daze improvements. Carrying capacity of the 2008 31 is somewhat lhigher. We owned a 2004 26 and now own a 2011 31. We find the 31 far more comfy and about the same to drive. FWIW & YMMV, as always.