Hi everyone,
I've been lurking for a few weeks as I considered buying an '86 Toyota Coachman. I took the plunge last night and brought her home for $3600. only 75K on the odometer. Cab looks great + it runs well, considering. Exterior paint, interior woodwork and upholstery are showing their age, but still servicable. The only major issue was a leak in the side wall over the cab and about a foot and a half radius around the TV antenna hole in the roof. Previous owner had recently painted the roof, but these 2 spots are soaked, so I'm tearing them out to make sure it is fixed and keep the problem from spreading. Planning to re-upholster, paint, + put in a new floor at least.
Plugged it in last night and the lighting, fridge, and AC appear to work. I'm realizing that I don't know what I'm doing, but that never stopped me before. I do have a few newbie questions:
Is there a good book/website/etc. for newbies to learn about RV power/water/gas systems? I built, wired, + plumbed my own house, and have rebuilt gas grills and done mechanical work, so I'm not completely lost - I just don't know anything about how RV's are set up.
Anything I should know before I damage something?
Power: Is it OK to plug into 120 without a battery installed? Hope so, as I've already done so!
Water: I watched some videos, so I know how to empty the tanks, but I just have to track down the plumbing + figure out how it works in this rig- any tips?
Gas: I didn't really think about it until last night, but these must have a built in tank(?). Does this need to be replaced due to OPD valve requirements?
I'll have to get my dad to come over, as he has a class A RV and knows way more than I do about this, but I don't see him often. Anyway, I appreciate any tips you can pass on!
-Tim
