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I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
I have been researching an LD purchase for about three years. Tomorrow morning my brother in law and I are driving more than six hours to see the floorplan, year, etc, I have been seeking.

Here is what I would appreciate advice on:

1) A link to the 2001 options sheet (I spent hours plus and cannot locate here)

2) Seatbelt locations/quantity - I do understand seatbelts other than the cabs are truly not "safe"

3) I have read the awesome buyer's checklist, but appreciate any other advice

This is a 2001, 26.5 RB with 30k original miles being sold private party in another state.

Thank you for your time in advance. I will read all responses. I have rented multiple rigs over the last 4 years (dp A, class C short and long) and have done much research. However, there is nothing like the knowledge of many owners.
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #1 –
Quote from: azclinton  - 
I have been researching an LD purchase for about three years. Tomorrow morning my brother in law and I are driving more than six hours to see the floorplan, year, etc, I have been seeking.

Here is what I would appreciate advice on:

1) A link to the 2001 options sheet (I spent hours plus and cannot locate here)

2) Seatbelt locations/quantity - I do understand seatbelts other than the cabs are truly not "safe"

3) I have read the awesome buyer's checklist, but appreciate any other advice

This is a 2001, 26.5 RB with 30k original miles being sold private party in another state.

Thank you for your time in advance. I will read all responses. I have rented multiple rigs over the last 4 years (dp A, class C short and long) and have done much research. However, there is nothing like the knowledge of many owners.
Clinton, I just emailed you the 2001 spec sheets. Sent to your email of record on this forum. Please let me know if you get it.

Chris
Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #2 –
Quote from: Chris Horst  - 
Clinton, I just emailed you the 2001 spec sheets. Sent to your email of record on this forum. Please let me know if you get it.

Chris

THANK YOU, Chris! Received and very appreciated!!!
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
 
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #3 –
This one?

https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2001-Lazy-Daze-26.5-REAR-BATH-5011432122

One red flag in the short and non-descriptive ad (to me) is the "suspensions replaced" remark; I would definitely want to know exactly what was replaced and why.

You noted that you had read the checklist of what to look for; if you didn't already plan on taking a print out of the checklist with you, it's a good idea to do so. There's no such thing as a too-thorough inspection.  ;)

Good luck.

2003 TK has a new home
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #4 –
Quote from: Joan  - 
This one?

https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2001-Lazy-Daze-26.5-REAR-BATH-5011432122

One red flag in the short and non-descriptive ad (to me) is the "suspensions replaced" remark; I would definitely want to know exactly what was replaced and why.

You noted that you had read the checklist of what to look for; if you didn't already plan on taking a print out of the checklist with you, it's a good idea to do so. There's no such thing as a too-thorough inspection.  ;)

Good luck.



 Joan, this is an awesome flag that I glanced right past. Thanks you! Yes - I have that checklist printed and in hand. I looked up Certified RV inspectors and see they are many miles away in San Diego. Thank you again!!
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #5 –
Since this is not an LDOF listing, I’ll comment on price. If you decide to purchase it, I would offer substantially less than the asking price. But that’s just me!  ;)
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #6 –
Quote from: HiLola  - 
Since this is not an LDOF listing, I’ll comment on price. If you decide to purchase it, I would offer substantially less than the asking price. But that’s just me!  ;)

HiLola:

Appreciate the pricing feedback. Did you have a high/low figure in mind? Any details are appreciate. Thanks!
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #7 –
Quote from: azclinton  - 
HiLola:

Appreciate the pricing feedback. Did you have a high/low figure in mind? Any details are appreciate. Thanks!
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version  Remember, it's just a guideline. 

Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.

Chris

Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #8 –
Just my 2 cents, but I wouldn't travel that far if I wasn't willing to pay at least close to what they are asking. 

I have friends who are in the market for a non-LD class C.  I'm amazed at the prices, and they are sometimes being sold before my friend can see them.  Demand (and prices) are pretty high right now. 

That RV was born in 2001 and is now an independent adult.  In other words, expect some maintenance issues - expected and otherwise.  Just like you would with a 19 year old truck or a 19 year old house (a RV is both!).

Rich
'03 MB in NC
2003 MB
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #9 –
Quote from: azclinton  - 
HiLola:

Appreciate the pricing feedback. Did you have a high/low figure in mind? Any details are appreciate. Thanks!

Not particularly, just seems a bit overpriced to me for an almost 20 year old rig but perhaps that's the present market. Since you are driving that far, you may also want to take a look at this one in nearby Seal Beach. It's two years younger for a similar price. A little more mileage but that is probably a good thing on a RV of that age:

https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2003-Lazy-Daze-26.5-REAR-BATH-5013114864

Regarding Rich's comment above, I would not tell the sellers where you are coming from. I, as a seller, would take the distance you traveled in consideration, thinking that you are more likely to pay my asking price since you drove from that far away.  Of course, the Arizona license plate I assume you have on your car might give you away.  Anyway, best of luck!
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #10 –
Quote from: Chris Horst  - 
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version  Remember, it's just a guideline.

Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.

Chris



Chris:

Indeed I did.actually viewed it right before posting. Thank you for this.
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #11 –
Quote from: rich  - 
Just my 2 cents, but I wouldn't travel that far if I wasn't willing to pay at least close to what they are asking. 

I have friends who are in the market for a non-LD class C.  I'm amazed at the prices, and they are sometimes being sold before my friend can see them.  Demand (and prices) are pretty high right now. 

That RV was born in 2001 and is now an independent adult.  In other words, expect some maintenance issues - expected and otherwise.  Just like you would with a 19 year old truck or a 19 year old house (a RV is both!).

Rich
'03 MB in NC


Rich:

Quote from: rich  - 
Just my 2 cents, but I wouldn't travel that far if I wasn't willing to pay at least close to what they are asking. 

I have friends who are in the market for a non-LD class C.  I'm amazed at the prices, and they are sometimes being sold before my friend can see them.  Demand (and prices) are pretty high right now. 

That RV was born in 2001 and is now an independent adult.  In other words, expect some maintenance issues - expected and otherwise.  Just like you would with a 19 year old truck or a 19 year old house (a RV is both!).

Rich
'03 MB in NC


Rich:

I am prepared IF the rig checks out. In the years I have researched in AZ, this condition (hopefully) in this floorplan just never appear. Really, its the floorplan that has been very tough to attain. I have come to the point of paying a premium to check all the boxes which this rig truly does. I also have inquired on other rigs over the years and see this price as in the ballpark. However, if it does not check out, I am turning around!

Thanks for the advice, sir.
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #12 –
Quote from: Chris Horst  - 
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version  Remember, it's just a guideline.

Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.

Chris


Quote from: Chris Horst  - 
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version  Remember, it's just a guideline.

Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.

Chris



I did. Thank you. Just this morning. A bit of a higher price and further away with a few more miles and less desired colors. If this one doesn't work and that one is around, may take another trip. The fact it has FIRM vs the MAKE OFFER the current rig of interest had put it further away as well. More or less, this blue rig strengthened the price of the current one.

Thanks again!
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #13 –
The suspension replacement could be the addition of upgraded parts, such as bigger sway bars.
If it required repair work at 28,000 miles, that's a different story, nothing should be worn out at that mileage other than the stock shock absorbers. The front suspension is a tough design and usually lasts for a long time before needing work.

The generator hours are very low, indicating it hasn't been used much, this can be an issue, generators need to be run regularly to stay in good condition.  Make sure it and every other appliance works. Ask the owner to turn on the refrigerator ahead of time, it takes a long time for it to cool down. Run the A/C on generator power to verify operation.
Test the operation of the furnace, A/C and water heater.
When looking for LDs built in the 2000's, I would prefer a 2004 or newer to avoid the blown spark plug issue, it can destroy an engine, ask me how I know.

None of the seatbelts in the rear are not considered to be as safe as the front seats, the sideway sitting positions and lack of headrests can lead to severe injuries or death in a bad crash. Few, if any RVs have safe seating in the rear. The front seats in a E450 are required to pass  the Federal Crash regulations, none of the other seats do.

The biggest problem area in a 2001 RB is the rear wall, the site of much rot in older models.
The roof seams and all the windows should have been resealed by this age. Many end caps have needed resealing at this age too.
An improperly installed spare tire holder has also been a source of leaks in older models.
The bottom of the rear wall can be checked for rot from under the rig, poking at the bottom of the wall with an ice pick, concentrating on the corners, where rot is most commonly found.
Any soft wood is a sign of rot. Intact wood will not be damaged by probing. Rot repair is very expensive and difficult to repair.

Check the age of the batteries and especially the date the tires were manufactured, they are aged out at 5-6 years.
A new set can cost up to $2000 if all seven tires need replacement.
Coach batteries last 4-8 years.

Happy hunting
Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #14 –
Quote from: Larry W  - 
The suspension replacement could be the addition of upgraded parts, such as bigger sway bars.
If it required repair work at 28,000 miles, that's a different story, nothing should be worn out at that mileage other than the stock shock absorbers. The front suspension is a tough design and usually lasts for a long time before needing work.

The generator hours are very low, indicating it hasn't been used much, this can be an issue, generators need to be run regularly to stay in good condition.  Make sure it and every other appliance works. Ask the owner to turn on the refrigerator ahead of time, it takes a long time for it to cool down. Run the A/C on generator power to verify operation.
Test the operation of the furnace, A/C and water heater.
When looking for LDs built in the 2000's, I would prefer a 2004 or newer to avoid the blown spark plug issue, it can destroy an engine, ask me how I know.

None of the seatbelts in the rear are not considered to be as safe as the front seats, the sideway sitting positions and lack of headrests can lead to severe injuries or death in a bad crash. Few, if any RVs have safe seating in the rear. The front seats in a E450 are required to pass  the Federal Crash regulations, none of the other seats do.

The biggest problem area in a 2001 RB is the rear wall, the site of much rot in older models.
The roof seams and all the windows should have been resealed by this age. Many end caps have needed resealing at this age too.
An improperly installed spare tire holder has also been a source of leaks in older models.
The bottom of the rear wall can be checked for rot from under the rig, poking at the bottom of the wall with an ice pick, concentrating on the corners, where rot is most commonly found.
Any soft wood is a sign of rot. Intact wood will not be damaged by probing. Rot repair is very expensive and difficult to repair.

Check the age of the batteries and especially the date the tires were manufactured, they are aged out at 5-6 years.
A new set can cost up to $2000 if all seven tires need replacement.
Coach batteries last 4-8 years.

Happy hunting
Larry



Larry,

Appreciate the multiple points, sir. I am very sensitive to the rot and water damage. It is really what turned me on to LDs. And those pesky spark plugs I have read about on here... How do you know about them, Larry 😁? I got a response from the seller on the suspension: "We replaced the suspensions in the back. Just maintenance, rides better"

I will get under there and check it out. The seller seems pretty particular. Had an expensive radio put in. Rarely used generator as always connected at sites and never boondocked. First/previous owner always took to Mammoth I guess. Owner did disclose house batteries need replacement soon. Tires less than one year old. Will check tire codes.

Thanks Larry!!! 👍
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #15 –
If the seller is referring to *shocks* when he says “suspensions”, why not just say that? JMO, but I would pay close attention to the checklist items and Larry’s points and inspect every part of this rig very carefully.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #16 –
"If the seller is referring to *shocks* when he says "suspensions", why not just say that? JMO, but I would pay close attention to the checklist items and Larry's points and inspect every part of this rig very carefully. "

Sometimes when English is not one's first language, words that are not quite right creep into a conversation or a written piece.  This also happens to people whose first language IS English, but the right word escapes them momentarily.  This happens to me sometimes, and I think I know a lot of words until one of them eludes me entirely!

   Virtual hugs,

   Judie
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #17 –
Hi, Looks like you're in the Phoenix area.   Hard to believe you've been looking for three years.  I see LDs come up for sale somewhat often in the Phoenix area or nearby.   I searched for about 2 months before I found mine.  Because of the intense heat be sure to check the components on the roof - vents, escape hatch, AC cover.  I ended up replacing all of them due to deterioration from the sun.  Also, if its been sitting for awhile the generator will most likely be non-functioning.  I had to replace my carb, filter and pump before it would work.  Batteries were also totally void of water. 

 Good luck. 
2006 RK
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #18 –
Quote from: azclinton  - 
Larry,

Appreciate the multiple points, sir. I am very sensitive to the rot and water damage. It is really what turned me on to LDs. And those pesky spark plugs I have read about on here... How do you know about them, Larry 😁? I got a response from the seller on the suspension: "We replaced the suspensions in the back. Just maintenance, rides better

2003 and earlier E450's V10 engines had 4-thread spark plug holes and were not torque tightly enough. This resulted in many of these engine spitting out spark plugs, tearing the threads out of the head at the same time. Some can be repaired for a few hundred dollars or the engine can be badly damaged and require replacement.
Our 2003 LD spit a plug and needed a new engine, $8000 for a Ford certified remanufactured engine. Ouch!
The very end of the 2003 E450 run changed over to the new, 7-thread heads, I know of no easy way to determine which head an engine has without removing a spark plug, an involved project.
If buying a pre-2004 LD, changing the spark plugs and setting them to the new, higher torque would be at the top of my 'to do' list'.

The rear suspension should need no maintenance at 28,000 miles, the owner may have changed shocks or sway bars, I would enquire and find out exactly what was done.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #19 –
I would like to thank Larry, Chris and ALL the others that took time to weigh in and provide advice. We will see what tomorrow and the weekend holds. If it is the right rig, I look forward to contributing to this fantastic group in the posts. Really a stellar and supportive group.

Getting up at 3am. Yikes!

- Clinton
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #20 –
If you are looking at the one Joan posted a link to, Pay very close attention to the window area adjacent to the toilet sprayer. There appears to be something strange going on in the area. Also check the back ladder area something doesn't look right in the photo.

Jon
1994 MB
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #21 –
Hi Jon, well I couldn't see anything amiss in the window area near the sprayer. I'd have to see it in person.  Definitely the ladder was hit by something.  I checked on this once and an entire ladder (bottom part) was under $200. More interesting would be the condition of the attaching screws and wood area underneath.  RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #22 –
Well, my brother in law enjoyed our turn around journey To Burbank yesterday. Out at 3am and back by 9pm while him and I lightly worked remotely.

The bottom line is that the rig had water intrusion at the over cab. Truly sad as the rig was truly a time capsule otherwise. The other rig on Trader was email only which I did day of, but with no response. Tough to see something quickly with no phone number.

More importantly, it made me realize that I should go a different route in my RV search. For my family a travel trailer may be the way to go. This is where I am going to focus my search. I know the build quality of most is much, much lower than LD. The trick is now finding one that will sleep 5 while being pulled by Honda mini van. I may have made my search more difficult but will focus around Phoenix only. Looking at units that do not  surpass 3500 GVW. Also highly considering Hensley Hitch.

Thank you all once again. Keep supporting this invaluable network of LD owners and just plain, good people 🙂.
Looking for 2001 or newer 23.5
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #23 –
Sorry the LD didn't work out, but good that you caught the water damage!

Re: finding a trailer that will "sleep 5" that can be towed with a Honda Odyssey. This article may provide some starter information on what can be safely towed:

How Much Can A Honda Odyssey Tow? | letstowthat.com

I hope that you will do extensive research on weights and capacities of the trailer and the real life towing capacity of the Honda before making a decision. IMO, one can't have "too much truck", and a poor match of tow vehicle and trailer can be disastrous.

YMMV, as always.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: I think I found my first LD - Your Advice Appreciated...
Reply #24 –
A Honda Odyssey isn't really a capable tow vehicle (no knocks - I own 2 Hondas, including a Pilot which is only a slightly better tow vehicle). 

Consider a basic pop-up camper.  Kids will love to play in the camper - even in the backyard.  You won't find more usable bed space for the money or weight.  Every trip will still be an adventure.     

You can get into one for under $2000 and sell it for almost that when you're done.  Take the savings and keep it for a hotel one day when the weather isn't cooperating on a trip.

Kudos for wanting to get your family out camping with a little more comfort.  A pop-up is a huge upgrade over a tent. 

Rich
'03 MB in NC
2003 MB