New trailer 'Test Drive'?

[boondockdad]

After purchasing our factory new 2005 Classic 31', we discovered a serious axle alignment problem. Figuring out that was the problem, and getting it fixed properly, was my time and money getting it to J/C, and a fair amount of aggravation as well... but this isn't an Airstream QC rant thread-- bear with me.

Our 2008 had brake issues, that I never would have left the dealer lot with, had I been more familiar with hydraulic systems.

All the 'shakedown' issues (that I didn't want to repair myself) would have presented themselves had I done a more comprehensive/thorough 'preflight'.

We're thinking about selling the '08, and getting a '12 off the lot.

I've decided not to purchase unless I can hitch the new model up, take it out on the highway, and then do a thorough run-down of the systems afterwards. (including hosing the exterior, at strategic locations, and probing plywood subfloor with a J-2000; another would be running the A/C, fridge and microwave at the same time)

What kind of objections do you suppose I'll run into with this (from the dealers)?
Has anyone done this?

[Jammer]

I suppose it depends on the dealer and when and how you let them know you're going to do this, and whether it's a factory order or something on the lot.

My local dealer's attitude with factory orders is that once you've put down the deposit, it's yours. While this may not be strictly true, I would not expect them to be especially accommodating for anything they think might provide a reason to delay or cancel the sale.

Let us know how it works.

[boondockdad]

I will.
Including dealer names, if the mod's don't take exception

[dkottum]

Hi 'joe. We just traded our 2007 for a 2012. You ought to go and take a look at the new models. I think the detailing to prevent leaks is at least somewhat better, if not a lot better.

But I think the idea is to prevent leaks from rain, not from multi-directional streams of water. For example, the tail lights are sealed on the top and sides, but left open at the bottom to drain any water that may enter. The upper fridge compartment is wide open to the interior cabinet. I think the trim at the rear bumper storage compartment is not sealed to allow drainage.

This is the way they are built, and I think directing a hose upward will surely find many leaks. (These are reasons I am careful when washing my trailer, and avoid pulling during rainstorms.) But the 2012's have many improvements in build quality and accessories over the 2007, and our 2007 was a damn good trailer.

Take a look at them and see what your impressions are.

doug k

[ROBERT CROSS]

Joe,

A new purchase off the lot...it's definitely worth a try. If the dealer is gung-ho to sell all the better. Just impress it's NOT a camping trip..and you just want to see how it goz'n toes

Keep us posted.

Bob

[boondockdad]

Originally Posted by ROBERT CROSS

Joe,

A new purchase off the lot...it's definitely worth a try. If the dealer is gung-ho to sell all the better. Just impress it's NOT a camping trip..and you just want to see how it goz'n toes

Keep us posted.

Bob

LOL
It only takes me thirty or forty minutes to feel like I'm on vacation... maybe I take it out for a 'shakedown' on a friday? They won't miss it until monday, right?