davidstephchap Posted March 31, 2019 Share Posted March 31, 2019 Hi guys... I'm David and am in the market for a Dolphin. Unfortunately, up here in Portland, OR, they hold there value like crazy, which is a good thing for a seller and a bad thing for me lol, the buyer. My girl and I stumbled across an '88 with 56k on the odometer at a small dealer out here. The inside has been completely redone, not the best job, but not the worst either. Clean we'll say. All cushions redone. New reefer. An Onan 2.6 microlite with 70 hours on it. Roof got redone already as the cab over had some water damage, as all RV's do. New batteries in engine and for shore. Engine was clean. Didn't look like it was detailed either actually. Didn't see any oil blowing at all. Underside was ok but didn't look to hard either. Outside was repainted by original owner and did find out that the original owner used this RV place for service, so they know everything about the rig. Now the bad part, the price lol. I can more than likely get out the door at $12,500, which I know is way too much, and the price is actually higher than that, but had a "feel out" convo with the dealer today. I know how long it's been on the lot as well. The others I have been looking at have been around $7k needing a ton of work. This sucker is road ready from what I can tell. I can more than likely work in an extended warranty as well. The engine looks super easy to work on as well. I'm relatively mechanical and pretty good at engines. I haven't taken it out yet for a drive, which is next, but wanted to know what all thought. I have never owned an actual RV before, and only trailers and tent camping. My goal eventually, when I retire in 15 or so years, is to do this half time. For now, this would allow me to travel to Boston to see my family and head back down to Oceanside, CA, where I lived for 18 years, and get some surf and some fun it. Guys, am I crazy to even think on this, or is it worth it? I know there will be money that I will have to sink in, and hopefully not a lot, but I dig the rig. What should I look for? What are the commons? The roof is done. Let me know if you would and thank you... I'm hoping to hear some positives here... Respectfully, David Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
linda s Posted March 31, 2019 Share Posted March 31, 2019 Check out this one. Looks fabulous. For long trips the V6 is much more comfortable https://oregoncoast.craigslist.org/rvs/d/north-bend-1992-winnebago-warrior/6848871213.html Linda S Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted March 31, 2019 Author Share Posted March 31, 2019 Kind of a hike from where i'm at Linda. But thank you. I'm really trying to get these guys down to 10k. That is my starting point. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
linda s Posted March 31, 2019 Share Posted March 31, 2019 From Portland to Coos Bay is around the block in the realm of Toyota motorhome shopping. It's closer to your price, it looks to be extremely nice condition and like I said the V6 models ride much smoother and more power to get over mountains. Have you driven a 4 banger? Some people are shocked by the lack of power. Of course the V6 has it's issues too. I still don't trust all the repairs made on the other one. Seems excessive. Linda S Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted March 31, 2019 Author Share Posted March 31, 2019 I haven't driven the 4 cyl or any Dolphin for that matter Linda. I plan on taking the one I am looking at out next week to feel it out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 Just luckily stumbled across a non listed 1990 Fiberglass Toyota Odyssey Americana with 91k. Has the V6 as well. Owned by a little old lady and husband who are just to old to take it out anymore. They were the original owners. I plan on taking a look at it tomorrow and the gentleman said he was going to post it for $14,500, which certainly is in my range. Thoughts? Respectfully, David Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Odyssey 4x4 Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 44 minutes ago, davidstephchap said: Just luckily stumbled across a non listed 1990 Fiberglass Toyota Odyssey Americana with 91k. Has the V6 as well. Owned by a little old lady and husband who are just to old to take it out anymore. They were the original owners. I plan on taking a look at it tomorrow and the gentleman said he was going to post it for $14,500, which certainly is in my range. Thoughts? Respectfully, David The fiberglass is nice, less chance of water rot. It all comes down to the vehicles condition which can only be determined once you are standing beside it. The price sounds a bit high unless it is in MINT condition in my opinion. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 That's what the prices have been Anthony, and thank you for the advice. All Dolphins here are above 7k with tons of work needed. I'm gonna go check her out tomorrow and see whats what. Respectfully, David Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
odysseybernard Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 We have a 91 odyssey ponderosa with rear dinette. Americana odysseys are very nice;. Still could have water damage around windows, vents, lights, under overhead mats, etc. Stored inside? Price seems high for 91 k, unless in super condition with no leaks and everything works. Check date code on the tires as about 800 to replace. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
linda s Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 The Odyssey Americana's are very nice and that price is not out of line. Some have sold on eBay for over 20 grand. One owner is rare too. Sounds like a real find Linda S Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 I will for sure check the windows for water damage, and all of the interior. The dealer was very forthcoming and talked alot about it. The dealer here specialized in weirder RV, mainly Toyota brand. He disclosed that a vent was leaking and that has been replaced, as well as the cracked windshield it had. The dealer also sent it out to there RV mechanics for a full "once over" and all was sound. No generator but that's the only difference between that and the dolphin I was looking at, although, this looks way nicer from the pix I have seen. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Odyssey 4x4 Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 Wow she is a beauty! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maineah Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 Head gasket recall and valve adjustment? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 11 hours ago, davidstephchap said: I will for sure check the windows for water damage, and all of the interior. The dealer was very forthcoming and talked alot about it. The dealer here specialized in weirder RV, mainly Toyota brand. He disclosed that a vent was leaking and that has been replaced, as well as the cracked windshield it had. The dealer also sent it out to there RV mechanics for a full "once over" and all was sound. No generator but that's the only difference between that and the dolphin I was looking at, although, this looks way nicer from the pix I have seen. Here's the description, as posted on FB:- " Going to be listing my Americana for sale quite soon. 91k miles. v6. Head gasket recall taken care of at Toyota dealer at 55k miles, back in 2007 ( have paperwork for this). L Couch rear bath layout. Had everything just inspected by Fred's RV a few weeks ago.They gave it a clean bill of health, everything works, no leaks, no water damage. (Have receipt for this). West Coast all it's life, purchased new in CA. Located near Portland OR. Asking price 14.5k obo. Contact me for any more info, photos, etc. Will be listing it up on Craigslist soonish, but wanted to give you guys a head start. " Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 Yep, that's the one. Glad the same story I got on the phone matches what was posted on FB. Much appreciated. Leaving in a few to check it out. v/r David Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 The Owner just posted on FB "Sale pending". You? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 Yes sir, just bought it. So stoked... down payment and pick up on Saturday. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 Congratulations. Look forward to learning more about your new Toy. Looks like a Santa Fe. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 Thank you Derek. I can't wait to get this thing and do my personal touches. My family is so excited. Already planning outings... I'm just trying to get my loan done lol Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 And if anyone might have the owners manual, that would be awesome. didn't see it in during the test drive but didn't look very hard either. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 I've a Pdf but can't upload it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 Try this. http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/applications/core/interface/file/attachment.php?id=17774 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 Thank you Derek. Just got it and worked like a champ. Much appreciated sir. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 You'll be wanting these, too. http://bryantrv.com/owners.html http://bryantrv.com/docs.html https://www.ether3al.com/93fsm-mobile/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 You may have just become my hero Derek. thank you so much... Getting all of them to my phone now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
odysseybernard Posted April 1, 2019 Share Posted April 1, 2019 Congrats, pics look great. Odysseys are also the largest toys in width and height. Make sure the tires are ok date wise; Just ordered 6 new hankooks, 8 play, 65 psi max. Would still change all the fluids, Toyota red antifreeze, diff. Fluid, brake fluid, etc Check out the threads on the t100 or 4runner cluster swap if you want a tripmeter, tach, voltmeter, oil pressure guage. It's a direct swap.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 1, 2019 Author Share Posted April 1, 2019 Thak you sir. Totally agree. Gonna get it wet a little bit with local camp and then plan on doing all you are talking about. I'm an ok wrench and love to tinker for sure. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hunkaman Posted April 2, 2019 Share Posted April 2, 2019 HEY THERE, looks like you got a real gem. hope the pics are consistent with the overall condition of your rig. welcome to toya world. have many safe and amazing journeys. joe from dover. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 2, 2019 Author Share Posted April 2, 2019 Right on Joe. Thank you much. Super stoked. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derek up North Posted April 2, 2019 Share Posted April 2, 2019 12 hours ago, odysseybernard said: Odysseys are also the largest toys in width and height. I wish I had the opportunity to have an 'regular' Odyssey and an Americana side by side to measure. Odysseys are touted as being 'biggest' but the Americana is supposed to be 4" lower than the 'regular', so I can't figure out how they managed that without losing some of the 6'-3" headroom? Can't make something smaller on the outside without making it smaller on the inside, unless you make the ceiling or floor thinner! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
davidstephchap Posted April 2, 2019 Author Share Posted April 2, 2019 I'm just glad i'm 5'4" Derek. I can do backflips without hitting ceiling Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
satrn4lulu Posted September 15, 2020 Share Posted September 15, 2020 On 4/1/2019 at 2:07 PM, Derek up North said: You'll be wanting these, too. http://bryantrv.com/owners.html http://bryantrv.com/docs.html https://www.ether3al.com/93fsm-mobile/ Oh my gosh - I'm so excited to find these here!!! 🙂 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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