How to know if a used teardrop is built well?

[krees]

We are looking for a used teardrop trailer; however, we do not know what to avoid, look for, etc. in a trailer. What specs should we ask about? If it is a custom made trailer, how do we know that it is well made and safe?
Your help would be appreciated.

Kriste

[WesGrimes]

If I was buying a used trailer, I would look for water damage and rust. Aluminum skinned trailers can conceal wood rot on the plywood behind them.

I would also take it to a car wash and make sure it is water tight. Door seals can be tricky on these things from what I read.

[48Rob]

Kriste,

What a super question!

I look forward to reading the answers on this thread!

My two cents is research the builds here on the board.

If the builder is a member here, look carefully at the album/build pictures and ask for opinions.
After a little studying, you should be able to tell the difference between built in a hurry, and high quality labor of love.

Rob

[Chuckles2153]

Kriste,

What a super question!

I look forward to reading the answers on this thread!

My two cents is research the builds here on the board.

If the builder is a member here, look carefully at the album/build pictures and ask for opinions.
After a little studying, you should be able to tell the difference between built in a hurry, and high quality labor of love.

Rob

I would do the same, Look to see if thay have a buils thread anywhere, Here or somewhere else and see what work went into building it.

[doug hodder]

Maybe you ought to decide if you want a true turn key tear, or if you are willing to do some work on it and what size is going to work for you. What options do you want in it to begin with, as some may be more difficult to add later. Check the Hall of Fame pics/ builders albums and spend some time here, get yourself an education before you go out and run the risk of getting one the hard way.

Like mentioned, water is the biggest issue that most of us run into. Check the interior and galley for any dark staining or soft ply if painted, that may indicate water intrusion or delamination, lift the mattress and check also. Is the trailer mopped with silicone anywhere? That may indicate a cover up for a problem.

Check for overall fit and finish. Are the curved items nice and smooth, edges cleaned up, things line up well, wiring clean or a rats nest, ends of material cleanly finished? I think it's an indication as to how much effort and craftsmanship went into the build.

If it's a custom frame...check the welding on it. If they appear like bird poop blobbed in a joint, it may not be what you want...is the wiring underneath cleanly done or appear haphazard? Feel the tire tread. Does it feel like it's cupped or worn funny...could be an axle out of alignment if it's a larger tire/wheel combo. Pull on the top of the tire sideways, can you hear or feel it clunk...the bearings may need to be tightened up and I'd lube them up anyway. Does it sit level? If not, could have a worn spring on one side if it's that type axle set up.

You can probably get into a starter tear for little money, but with time and effort, you could turn it into a really nice camper, or pay more and get one that needs little work. There are a variety of them out there.

I'm sure that others may disagree with me on some of this, but it's just my opinions and that's the stuff I'd look for. Doug