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Old 03-16-2018, 06:21 AM   #1
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2012 Interstate Coach
East Hampton , Connecticut
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Tree fell on my 2012 Interstate

Just looking for the thoughts, experiances of others. A large tree fell on the rearmost roof section of my 2012 AI. The appraiser just looked at it yesterday (3/15). The sheet metal was crunched (relatively mildly but must be repaired) at spots along the rear edge, and both side edges of the roof behind the A/C. Some of the roof sheet metal is also mildly deformed. The awning motor was smashed and the awning and awning housing, bent, torn, etc. The A/C shroud was smashed, as was the Mercedes (replacement) rear camera and TV omnidirectional antenna. Trim pieces to the Fiamma ladder were also smashed.

The appraiser thinks that the cabinets are going to have to be removed to fix the sheet metal. The damaged componants all need to be replaced. The closest AI dealer is more than 100 miles away. There is both a Freightliner and MB repair shop within 25 miles of my home.

Here is my problem: Do I get the the body repairs done and replace the componants myself? Who do I chose to do this work? Like many people I have limited confidence in others doing the repairs to my satisfaction.
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Old 03-16-2018, 06:53 AM   #2
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Please have an experienced Sprinter shop do another appraisal and if possible the repairs. Yes the interior will need to come out. This van is unibody, and requires special jugs. This doesn’t sound good. It’s my opinion
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Old 03-16-2018, 07:21 AM   #3
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+1 - the first order of business is to get an assessment by a Sprinter-certified outfit. Other issues such as removing cabinetry and making sure the interior all gets back together properly... that stuff is secondary.

Edit: A couple of photos would probably help this discussion.
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Old 03-16-2018, 08:12 AM   #4
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Edit: A couple of photos would probably help this discussion.
So would knowing location if you need recommendations on places to have service done.
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Old 03-16-2018, 08:33 AM   #5
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What I would consider doing is having a Sprinter certified body shop complete the body repairs, and it the unit on to Jackson Center to have the RV portion of the work done.

I would also consider this. Since the damage is body damage only, I would check out the very best body repair shop in your area. They may well do a better job on body sheet metal repairs than a Sprinter shop.

Brian
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Old 03-16-2018, 09:09 AM   #6
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Originally Posted by CAS138 View Post
Just looking for the thoughts, experiances of others. A large tree fell on the rearmost roof section of my 2012 AI.
First of all, I am so very sorry that this happened. I am glad no one got hurt.

Second, I agree with all the recommendations. Definitely go to Sprinter specialist for total assessment. And I like the idea of a really excellent body shop make their own assessment. While the Sprinter-certified shop may do an excellent job, the real top-end shops may have seen worse damage and may have other opinions/strategies.

It seems from your post the damages are minor. But I would still weight the cost of repairing against current value of unit and current condition prior to accident. Would it be worth fixing or better to look into replacement used or new?
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Old 03-16-2018, 09:12 AM   #7
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If this were mine..I'd go to the trouble of having the work done at your dealer, even though that's inconvenient.
My concern would be resale value. When you go to sell or trade you have documentation it was done properly(we hope).
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Old 03-16-2018, 10:02 AM   #8
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Like others have said, I am sorry this happened. 100 miles seems like an insignificant distance given the investment you have in your 2012 AI. If it your plan to keep the unit and continue using it after the repairs are done, get it done right and by experienced people. I suggest either the dealer or even Jackson Center. The unit could be loaded on a trailer and transported to either destination. Your insurance company will only pay once. Make it where you will get the best possible result.

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Old 03-16-2018, 11:07 AM   #9
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Tree fell on my Interstate

First off I would want All New Parts no straightening and filling with body filler. You are just asking for future problems.

You have a deductible and above that the insurance company had to pay, so get a as new repair.

Don’t do Any work your self

Just my 2 cents

If and when you trade it in or sell some smart dealer or consumer will measure the thickness of the paint a know it was repaired and you will take a large loss.

Earl
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Old 03-16-2018, 11:16 AM   #10
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So would knowing location if you need recommendations on places to have service done.
Good point. OP is in the northeast, where some areas experienced three nasty nor'easters inside of about a week's time (I've been watching the misery unfold on the news). But I shouldn't assume it got damaged there.
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Old 03-16-2018, 05:35 PM   #11
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Thank you. All good information. I live in Connecticut. Some photos will follow.
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Old 03-16-2018, 06:12 PM   #12
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Old 03-16-2018, 07:09 PM   #13
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Carfax will ultimately disclose the facts to a new buyer....
Do it right!
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Old 03-16-2018, 07:47 PM   #14
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Carfax will ultimately disclose the facts to a new buyer....
Do it right!
I want it done right for me and I expect to have this for a long time! I will be seeking the best bodywork. I dont want any second rate work. I am undecided about componants that need replacing. I am never disappointed if i do that myself. I am considering taking it to the factory as well.
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Old 03-16-2018, 08:12 PM   #15
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I saw an Interstate being repaired at JC. Tree had fallen on it - much worse damage than yours. They were removing all cabinets then somebody (Airstream?) was going to cut the top off above the window line and weld on a new roof. Apparently the insurance company didn't want to total it.
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Old 03-17-2018, 05:33 AM   #16
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I want it done right for me and I expect to have this for a long time! I will be seeking the best bodywork. I dont want any second rate work. I am undecided about componants that need replacing. I am never disappointed if i do that myself. I am considering taking it to the factory as well.
Sounds like the best move IMO. A great time of year for a road trip to Jackson Center! With two drivers, you could do this in one day from East Hampton. Just get on I-84 and head west, young man!

"Piecing out" the work to different shops will open you up to later disagreements about the quality of the repair work etc. IMO.

Good luck!

Peter
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Old 03-18-2018, 08:49 AM   #17
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Tree Fell on my AS

Might I suggest Airstream of Western PA
who has a crew with 30 years experience.
They did mine very well.
Also don’t forget Out of Doors of NC.
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