What to look for when buying used?

[StampCamper]

DH has been scouring CL for a used hybrid...and he's found one he wants to go look at.  A 2005 Jayco 23F.  What kinds of things should we be looking for?  Especially interested in uncovering any hidden water/mold damage.  Thanks guys for your tips!

[Oz and Us]

A 2005 Jayco 23F.  What kinds of things should we be looking for?

When the hybrid concept was first introduced the bed platform closure system consisted of just a couple of simple screws with a knob on each that when tightened down would force a simple rubber seal around the edge of the platform against the body of the trailer.  Jayco attempted to improve on this design with their own keylock system that proved to be just as problematic, especially when the lock itself would break internally and not allow the platform to be locked in position -







It was a lousy solution to the problem and eventually Jayco switched to using the cargo latch style of closure system found on pretty well every hybrid manufactured today.  Personally, I'd avoid any hybrid that doesn't use this type of closure as any other is an invitation to leakage past the bed platform seals.

[01YZF6]

like I was told when we were looking.... a thorough inspection should take an hour or better.
make sure they have everything ready to be tested.  from stove, to a/c, to water systems, and electrical throughout!

look in, on, over, and under every cabinet, move carpet swatches, lift seats, move mattresses.
bring a flashlight, operate every piece of equipment, convert it from setup and travel mode (to check doors, seals, etc.)

check the tires for wear/cracking.  ask for service records, and ask them what things they have done to maintain it.  let them tell you !

make sure all lights inside and out work.  including travel lights !

[bikendan]

you can Google for a list of things to look for when shopping for a used RV.
the only thing different on a hybrid, from other RVs, is the canvas bunk ends. these should be the first thing to look closely at, especially the hinge area. this is where most water accumulates when there are leaks in the bunk doors. it can pool and soak the sill, the area underneath, the bottom of the bunk door. look at the seals closely and check the canvas at where it attaches to the trailer.

other than that, a hybrid is no different than other RV trailers and will have the same things to look at.

[Oz and Us]

DH has been scouring CL for a used hybrid...and he's found one he wants to go look at.  A 2005 Jayco 23F.

I'm curious ... in checking Jayco Archives I don't see a 2005 Jayco 23F hybrid in the model lineup.

[StampCamper]

DH has been scouring CL for a used hybrid...and he's found one he wants to go look at.  A 2005 Jayco 23F.

I'm curious ... in checking Jayco Archives I don't see a 2005 Jayco 23F hybrid in the model lineup.

Yes, we've figured out that it's the 23B based on the pics in the listing showing the interior layout.

[Between Trips]

What kinds of things should we be looking for?

Make sure the appliances work. I'd ask the seller to fire up the fridge and water heater so both are at temperature when you come to look. Worst he/she can say is 'no'. Check the tires for spider cracks in the tread and on the sidewall. Ask seller when they were last replaced and when the brakes and wheel bearings were last serviced.

Especially interested in uncovering any hidden water/mold damage.

Check for any discoloration or sponginess in either the ceiling or the floor. Check the outside storage compartments for moisture or rotted wood. Take a look under the trailer for same. Above all, trust your nose...the smell of mildew is unmistakeable. The smell of air freshener may be an attempt to mask it.