I am going to look at a 2001 trail lite bantam tomorrow. I will print a check list to take with me. I was just wondering what reputation does R-Vision have and are there any know issues to be aware of?
We had a 1999 Bantam 17 for a few years, bought it used. Aside from the general RV stuff to check, specific items I'd suggest are to check the tent ends for any staining/water damage, as well as the storage area's to check for any evidence of standing water/damage. We had trouble with leaks on the roof/front cap junction, all the roof marker lights, and with the front tent end sealing when closed. Check the tires for even wear. Our single axle 17'er had a bent axle and wore out one tire REALLY fast, I've heard of other Bantam's with a similar problem. R-vision and Alko (the axle mfr) accused me of overloading it, though I know I never did. I think they just under-axled them a bit.
My personal experience with R-vision as a company was less that good. Granted I was not an original owner, but my calls and messages to them consistently went unanswered. I had a hard time getting specific replacement parts (for example, I had to replace a front canvas tent end due to water damage), and generally found them to be a customer service lacking organization.
That said, the trailer itself was great for what it is (lightweight, reasonable well built) and held it's value very well. We sold it simply to move on to a trailer with no tent ends, just a preference thing. There was nothing really wrong with it, just wear and tear (and the bent axle that I didn't want to fork out the $$ to replace so I instead replaced the tires sooner than I should have had to).
Un like the previous reply; I've had a wonderful experience with my 03 B-19. Bought it used 2 1/2 yrs ago and we love it. Had to patch 2 small tears in the tent ends...20 mins to fix. Both repairs are almost good as new.
I've had absolutely no problems with my unit. It's a tandem axle which I understand has some advantages with towing stability and endurance. It tows quite well behind my MPV minivan. We just returned from 2 weeks in Pa and Va mountains and we had a blast!!
Feel free to PM me or contact via e-mail.
sayby1@aol.com
We purchased a 2004 Trail Lite Bantam B23 in May of 2007. It was hardly used and probably used more by us over the past year. We have been very happy with it and have not had any problems with axles or water leaks. I did have to replace the microwave last month but that is a minor problem compared to leaks and or frame and axle problems. Best of luck with your search for a HTT. I think you'd be happy with a Trail Lite.
With a trailer this old, it really is much more about the condition of the unit and how it was maintained that it is about the brand. My 2000 Bantam had held up great. I spoke with the new owners last month and they still have yet to have any problems with it. However, mine was in excellent condition and well maintained by the original owner when I purchased it in 2006.
As with any hybrid it is all about leaks. Check very carefully for water damage near the beds, under the front storage compartment, and on the ceiling. Water is what kills these trailers. If you find signs of water damage I would pass no matter how good the deal.
John, the lovely wife, plus the 3 kids. 2007 Jayco Jay Flight 31BHS - Parked at the Seasonal Site Previous setups...
2002 Ford Explorer V6 pulling 2000 Trail-Lite Bantam B19
1997 Chevy Blazer pulling small Coleman popup
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