cross members loose??

tomcook · 03-11-2006, 06:57 AM

I've found someone to look at a 1991 34'. It showed quite well
but not nearly as nice as the owner described it. I'm sure I'll be the
same way after I live in and love mine for awhile ;o)

One concern was that some crossbraces had worn through the quarter round,
plastic trim that goes around the bottom of the trailer. My friend had not
seen this before and thought it was probably just due to vibration. But I
seem to remember reading about the cross members coming loose, especially
if thre is a problem with the floor. Does any one have experience with
this ??

Thanks.

Tom

**wahoonc** · 03-11-2006, 07:09 AM

Tom,
It is a warning sign, it could be something as simple as the unit having been towed with severly out of balance running gear. Look for sheared rivets, inside and outside as well as rub marks, loose cabinetry etc. It could also be a sign of broken welds on the outriggers, or rotten wood in the area. What ever it bears further investigation prior to plopping down your hard earned money.

Aaron

nickcrowhurst · 03-11-2006, 07:10 AM

Tom, be afraid, be very afraid........ You could be talking fundamental structural rigidity issues. These steel outriggers are very vulnerable to corrosion, BTW it's the same outrigger corrosion that kills old Land Rovers. I wouldn't touch it with the blunt end of a disinfected bargepole.
Melbourne is on the coast, and there is potential for salt water corrosion from spray driven miles inland. I live 15 miles from the coast, and in serious on-shore storms we get salt on our home windows. I went two years ago to the Airstream Park at Melbourne that shut down, and saw a whole line of Airstreams for sale. I had a careful look at the exteriors, and saw some nasty corrosion. On one there had been an attempt to conceal it by riveting a thin patch over a collapsed frame.
Nick.

tomcook · 03-11-2006, 10:21 AM

Thanks guys.

IYO, is it even worth $100. or so to have a qualified repairman do the pre-purchase inspection or should I write this one off and keep looking??

Tom

Ken J · 03-11-2006, 10:43 AM

This is a 91? That should not be happening on a newer model - there are tons and tons of late model longer (30-34') trailers - Since there are so many nice ones around, I would keep looking and not spend the 100 at this point.

Ken J.