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Open Roads Forum > Class B - Camping Van Conversions

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ruwth

Oklahoma

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Joined: 04/22/2012

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Posted: 04/29/12 07:10am

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SondraD11 wrote:

The PPL American Cruiser has been reduced to $19,000 for their sale. I know you have ruled it out but it might be worth another look. FYI.

Then later:

I think somehow I missed seeing your post about going to PPL to test drive the American Cruiser. Their website now shows the vehicle as 'Sale Pending'. Is that you? Please let us know how it went and your impression of PPL after the visit. Thanks!

Sondra and everyone - I saw the lowered price as well. That is what prompted me to call them again. 'Sale Pending' is me! I would love to report back on my experience with PPL and, of course, I want to come back and let y'all know if I do indeed purchase the American Cruiser they have on their lot.

BLUE MARBLE wrote:

I apologize for sounding harsh BUT you are flailing around seeking half baked opinions from all over.

BLUE MARBLE and Everyone - I am sort of flailing around however I definitely am NOT seeking HALF-BAKED opinions! I most definitely want FULLY-BAKED opinions!!

BLUE MARBLE wrote:

PPL has an excellent reputation. They have graded this unit "excellent". You are permitted to test drive this coach. You may have a mechanic of your choice insoect the RV carefully without PPL rushing you.

I did check with the BBB of Houston. PPL does have a good rating. I DON'T LIKE not being allowed to take this vehicle to a Dodge dealership for a pre-purchase mechanical inspection. As I think I said, I have made arrangements for a mechanic to do the test drive with me and to inspect the vehicle on PPL's lot BUT this is not quite the same as an in shop inspection.

BLUE MARBLE wrote:

As to a possible leak...so what...it happens and you fix it. Get the vin # they will supply it to you...order a CarFax report ..read it then go to Houston with an excited and happy heart and look forward to enjoying your purchase for many miles. If you feel that it doesn't measure up...so what...that is the nature and experience of many of us who have sought a used coach. Try, try again.

My funds are limited. I am on disability now with a low income and don't have a lot of money to throw around. This is a scary venture for me. I really don't want to make a mistake.

Handbasket wrote:

Generator repair is iffy... a $500 carb may or may not fix it. Neglect can lead to other issues on top of a gummed up carb. $3k is about right for a replacement, plus whatever you spend on trying the carb, less whatever the shop will give you for the dead Onan.

An in-person test drive among fast-passing big trucks is absolutely essential!!! Ask them to be sure the tires are properly inflated before you get there, but take your own gauge to check them (digital is good, reads to at least 100-120 psi; you'll need one anyway).

Find out if there's any warranty on the new transmission, and how you'd collect. If it's a Jasper re-manned, that's probably good, they have a nationwide warranty.

I'm a good bit put off by being unable to take to the Dodge dealer for inspection. I'd be asking why not, and not accepting BS answers.

Learn to find and read the date code on tire sidewalls. That's another ~$8-900 if they're 5-6 years old.

You can still test the 12V stuff, the 120V stuff (A/C, microwave, & ??) just requires plugging in to shore power. That should be doable there.

Do not succumb to the "gottahaveit's". Be prepared to walk away. There are others, be prepared to keep looking. Good luck.

Jim, "I don't think, therefore I am not."

Jim - Thanks for the valuable feedback. The line I emphasized might be the hardest for me to heed. I am sincerely praying that GOD not allow this purchase to go through if it is one I will live to regret. I am trying to do my homework and hope I will make a wise decision.

Thanks again!

~ ~ ~ ruwth ~ ~ ~
An American Cruiser owner-wanna-be.

~ ~ ~ ruwth ~ ~ ~

BLUE MARBLE

Largo, Florida

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Joined: 07/03/2007

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Posted: 04/29/12 05:55pm

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Courage! Follow your bliss and doors will open that you never knew existed. Although...limited funds? 14mpg?...100 miles is $28.00...35 gal tank fill up...$130.00. But I wish you well.

"we are not stopping 'til they come to take us away!"
all 4 kids grown, healthy and ...gone