Considering a 1985 Dolphin. Never owned an RV before. Need it to live in for three years, likely without moving much. At my price point, I figure nothing I get will be perfect or close. If it's a home run, would consider it for long-term living and roaming.
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First and likely most important question: Is the axle the right one? Wheel has six lugs, picture below. Didn't pull front wheel cover to see what front might be, but all four wheel covers match. Guessing they're original, a fake wire wheel cover sorta thingy..
Second, is the roof AC unit original to vehicle (pictures below)? I'm guessing not. For long term living and roaming, I would want to have AC capability.
I suspect from interior window condensation, as well as ceiling condition--particularly in bathroom (see pictures)--that it isn't watertight. There are no mold smells or other funky odors. It's on offer from a small-time car dealer who says that he plans to get the roof sealed, so there's that. I figure I can seal it myself as well as he would. Ceiling at cabover above sleeping platform is particularly cold and a bit slick, but no sign of drip. I also suspect that there's no way to really tell what's underneath until when/if I pull out the ceiling and look. That said, I can't find any obvious issues by pressing upward, nor can I detect any soft spots in floor, but I've never bought an RV before, how can I know for sure? There have been multiple applications of sealant of varying kinds on seams on the exterior sides--due to snow, I haven't been able to look at the roof. Mostly old and some clear silicone (which my mother warned me against) atop what was already there on stuff I can see. If acquired, I figure I'd get as much off as possible with rotary drill buffer deal-y-doo, then flexible putty knife, then, perhaps, a light wire brush treatment before applying a vinegar solution, before caulking with PTBNL (product to be named later, in honor of baseball). My dad repaired mobile homes back in the day, think circa Tet Offensive. Thus, the vinegar idea. Also, floor tiles, which I suspect aren't original, are slightly cupped in some places. Worst is shown in pictures.
Two batteries in engine compartment? Who knew? One appears brand new, so I'm thinking it was put in to make something or other work. Rear bumper looks aftermarket and substantial.
The Game Plan
I've given it the once-over and plan to look again, once snow is gone, assuming the axle is right. I plan to bring a three-foot-or-so straight edge and hold it against ceiling and maybe floor. Would that accomplish anything? Also plan to crawl underneath with a strong flashlight (and rain gear) to inspect for any sign of holes/damage. Also want to see that AC, fridge, and oven/stove work as they should and that there are no issues (hopefully) with grey, black and fresh tanks, assuming this unit has those--I know nothing about motorhomes or how such tanks work. I've read through a fair amount of posts on this site on what stuff to look for but still would appreciate any help/suggestions on what I might be missing in terms of inspecting this rig before deciding whether to make an offer. If nothing else, I'd like to know whether the rear axle is righteous. Thanks so much, and sorry for upside down picture of AC unit from exterior. My computer controls everything...
Rare
Rare
