What is this thing?

[pillageTHENburn]

Hello all, I have already posted a similar question in a different thread, I just wanted to see what you all had to say.

I have an opporunity to buy a 1974 Argosy 32' motorhome. It was manufactured as a 24' but the original owner had it extended (and added tag wheels) in the 80's. Don't worry the entire mod job was done by Airstream (except the cabinets, which the original owner (a carpenter) made out of Yellow Oak and Cedar). It has a 454 Chevy Motor with less than 64K original miles (original engine). It has a good working Generator, Air Conditioner, Heater, H2O heater, propane and an untested fridge (untested by current owner). The current owner is the second, he purchased it 4 months ago from the original and has since realized that it is bigger than he needs. It needs a new blackwater tank... but everything else seems to be in good order. The exterior is in good condition, no major paint problems, no dents or scratches. I have not actually been inside it yet but I've done a lot of walking around it and peering in the windows. I plan to meet with him tomorrow afternoon for a grand tour.

Any comments? Is this a lemon? Is this a rare steal? Is this a stupid idea? He was going to try to sell it for $7400 in a lot but said that is a high number because the lot charges fees...I don't know exactly what I could talk him down to, but at this point I don't know what I SHOULD talk him down to. If I know what I'm doing he'll be more apt to trust my sense of value.

I need some advice!

Thanks!!

-Logan

[85MH325]

Wow... that sounds interesting...

Originally a 24' extended to 32'...

My initial reaction is that it's a one-off custom coach, and you'll not have a clue about whether it's a lemon or a keeper until AFTER you buy it. It had to have 8' of frame installed in the P30 chassis, so you have at least four welds that may or may not have been done properly. You'll also have some drivetrain components extended or added. Skin had to be spliced in.

Obviously, it's not falling apart at this point, but who knows... I certainly don't think it's worth more because it's a one-off.

My suggestion would be to have the frame and drivetrain closely examined by a truck mechanic for soundness. If it all checks out, offer the owner what YOU think it's worth. If he takes it, you get a deal. If he doesn't, you're not stuck with the same white elephant he's stuck with.

There are enough factory-original Argosy and Airstream motorhomes for sale out there in good original condition, or restored condition that you don't need to jump in with both feet if you're not prepared to yet.

My $.02.

Roger

[IPM]

ditto plus argosy sells for less than shiny airstream as well