Looking at Argosy Motorhome, need advice!

[990rick]

We're considering buying a 1977, 24' Argosy Motorhome. We have only seen some pictures so far, but we're in touch with the owner and want to ask some intelligent questions before making the trip to see it. It is listed as having 81000 miles. New 3 burner kitchen range. Large refrigerator. Onan generator. Roof air conditioner. GM P300 chassis with Chevy 454 engine. Any advice, cautions, opinions on the quality of this unit would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Stefrobrts]

I saw that one advertised as well. Do you have a mechanic you trust in the area you could take it to for a check up? That's my policy regarding all the classic cars I buy, and it's served me well. You could even find out how much the local AS dealer in Eugene charges to go over a motorhome and have them take it down there, it's not that far away. It's a big investment, so I think it would be worth a couple hundred to know what you're getting into.

[gmehal]

Do a compression check for sure!! this will give you a real good idea of general engine health.

[projector]

Look at the frame in the back and in the side compartments. Ours has rust in different places, some minimal and some not. We're replacing the back end, 5' on one side and 2 on the other, and the rear cross member. The truck frame isn't bad, it's all in the motorhome frame that's added to it. I'll be posting pics in another thread when it's complete. Good Luck.

[fauxfinisher]

I just posted picts. of my 24 footer 1977 under argosy motorhomes.... So far I have not had any major problems..I purchased it in may of 2010,,, make sure tires are in good shape as mine looked good but the center of the tires were bulging in spots,, also had to replace some steering linkage,, other than that it is really a nice home...

[realpank]

I bought one a couple of years ago form Virginia and drove it home to Southern Ontario. I asked the seller to take it to his mechanic and had it go over the safety ceritificate inspection. I had him go over the brakes and replace what it needed, replaced all 6 tires, new starter, new belts and hoses, pressure test the rad, compression on the motor, replaced the plugs and wires and all fluids. I think I was lucky as he said that the unit was in good shape. This is all after I had agreed to buy it of course.