Buying Used Need Advice - What to look for???

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Ok it's my first post here. Have been following here for some time contemplating the details for my first build which I wanted to start next month. However, the oppertunity to buy a used teardrop locally has appeared. Seeking advice on the top 5 or 10 things to look for while inspecting a used teardrop. So far I've thought of the following:

- How Old
- Title/Registration
- Trailer Frame: Load rating, New/Used, Axel condition/Bearings, Wheels size (how old?spare?), Axle placement, tongue weight, hitch size & wire connector type
- Electrical: 30 amp, 12v inverter, panel/fuses, light & outlets (test)
- Check for leaks/water damage: Doors, Galley hatch, Hurricane Hinge, Roof @ walls
- Doors: Size/Location (in & out ease)
- Other: Towing experiences @ what speeds, how much used / how many miles

What have I missed?

Thanks! Any information is helpful.

[KennethW]

insulated?

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Thanks Ken. An obvious one that I missed.

[The Teardrop Nanny]

Got a chance to go inside it? If so, lay down and try it out. Move around a bit, see what your head and feet MIGHT hit, and can you even turn over easily in it? Especially if it only has one door. If you have a partner, can you both sleep together in it without feeling claustraphobic? This can be a biggie for some folks. Good luck in your preview.
Joanie
TDN

[cherokeegeorge]

Agree with joanie also check the galley. Is there enough storage and is the layout comfortable for you.

[[email protected]]

Thanks Joanie great points. We haven't done that yet. But hope to see it early next week. Will definitely try that out.

[The Teardrop Nanny]

Hope you find what you are looking for and are able to purchase it.
Joanie
TDN

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Thanks Joanie. Me too!

[tdprice54]

I bought an original Benroy last year. I bought a trailer that was needing repair. It turned out I had more repairs than expected, but I wanted the original trailer. Remember the inner structure is mostly wood if buying an older trailer. I do not regret buying my trailer but repairs were more than I thought. Just look the trailer over good for wood rot and leaks. It can ALL be repaired but your skill level will play into it. This is my third teardop and have regretted selling other two. Good luck and if it's not the right trailer for you and your skill level ,pass on it as there will be others. Thats my .02

[tony.latham]

If you were buying a used car, you'd take it for a test drive. So take this for a test tow. Make sure it doesn't bob and weave or isn't too tongue heavy for your tow vehicle.

T

[bobhenry]

Total weight ( is it within the tow vehicles capability)

Tongue weight a bathroom scale will tell you ( should be about 15% maybe a bit more than total unit weight if well balanced)

[[email protected]]

More great suggestions that I've added to my list. Thanks everyone. Hopefully get to check it out today or Monday. I'll let you know how it goes. If it's not in good shape I'll just begin my own build. Win-win either way there's a teardrop in our future.

[Kharn]

The trailer's actual dimensions?
A 60" interior vs 58" or 54" interior doesn't look all that different, but can cause issues with bedding plus the larger size can command a price premium. It could have also been built by a 5'4" person and if you're 6' you might find you're missing some leg room. An elongated tongue could also cause problems if you're planning to garage it.

[Vedette]

I posted a reply when the question was first asked! But is got lost somewhere in the Computer Space???
Things to consider:
Make sure you go 5' wide unless you are single and want to stay that way.
No need for a built in sink and water supply.
Check to see if there is any sign of water leaks. Water is the enemy in any type of teardrop.
Two doors! Again.... if you or your have a significant other gets up in the night??? or if you like to share the bed making duties??
Guess I could go on and on, but you have already had enough great advice to go looking!
Good Roads
Brian & Sandi

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Thanks Kharn - I've checked and its a full queen (60"). I have an oversized 2 car garage so storing the trailer is not a problem.