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Post by kellykris on Jun 13, 2013 20:05:38 GMT -5
I'm in the Midwest, and I'm looking for a vintage trailer, but Craigslist is just not working. I feel like that isn't where I should be looking. I checked here, but didn't see anything near me. I want a trailer that sleeps 4 or more, and weighs no more than 4000 lbs. I don't mind doing some painting and sewing, but electrical, roof and floor work is beyond me. Is it unreasonable to be looking for one that someone has already done the hard work on and I can just finish up? It doesn't have to be shiny and fancy, or original, just clean and safe. I was hoping to pay 4-6K. I'm new at this, am I being ridiculous?
And where else should I be looking at besides Craigslist and here?
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Post by schweetcruisers on Jun 13, 2013 20:17:17 GMT -5
Welcome, where are you located?
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Post by kellykris on Jun 13, 2013 20:20:12 GMT -5
Kansas City. I would drive several hours to get something dreamy, but not to go kick the tires on something that is going to need more work than I can give it.
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Deleted
Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Jun 13, 2013 20:23:01 GMT -5
Are you searching on Craigslist via Searchtempest.com? That might open up your search a bit more. A lot of folks find them in backyards - I think sometimes that depends on which section of the country you're in, here in the South they are tougher to come by. And no, you're not being unreasonable - I think you're being smart recognizing your comfort level/areas of expertise. Have you looked at Tin Can Tourists? They also have a Facebook page and they are constantly posting trailers of all kinds for sale. There are others on here that have been at this much longer than I have, so I will defer to them. For what you are willing to pay, however, the trailer should be close to turn-key. I was fortunate enough to find one like that, but making it "mine" is still very expensive and I've demo'd, stripped, and re-done quite a bit. Hang in there, kellykris - the right one is coming.
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Post by kellykris on Jun 13, 2013 20:30:35 GMT -5
I was not, I'll look into that. I had checked that website, though. That's really heartening that you think I can get something nice for that price. I want big windows, a/c is a must and heat would be nice. I just couldn't enjoy it without AC in this climate. I was so desperate earlier this week I almost bought a tiny one that someone had gutted and painted. It used to be a meth lab. Then I slapped myself and started looking for you kind folks.
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Post by purplepeep on Jun 13, 2013 21:36:00 GMT -5
When you're searching, try different key words: Old camper, antique camper, canned ham camper, 1950's camper... It's funny what you can find listed, in the wrong category.
Also, try calling your local rv repair shop. They may know of someone with a old camper.
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Post by murryconst on Jun 13, 2013 23:58:58 GMT -5
Also on Craigslist just type the year
Or hunting, tiny, project, teardrop
Those work some times
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Post by The Pink Sheep on Jun 14, 2013 0:53:41 GMT -5
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Post by kellykris on Jun 14, 2013 7:28:28 GMT -5
Thanks everyone, that has been VERY helpful. I am looking at one on eBay right now and wondering how you know the person won't just take your money and disappear? And you've helped my resolve to slow down and wait for the right one to come along. My children are very tall for their age, I need to wait and find one with enough sleeping space for all of us, so we don't outgrow it by the time I've made it ours.
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Post by purplepeep on Jun 14, 2013 15:34:33 GMT -5
If you get one on ebay, pay with a credit card through PayPal. If they seller wigs out, you're covered under the buyer protection plan. Find out if there's a dollar limit first. I can't remember.
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Hamlet
2K Post Member
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Post by Hamlet on Jun 14, 2013 15:48:03 GMT -5
If you're looking for big windows and a/c already done, you're probably best off looking for one from the mid-late 1970s. The earlier units would need to have been properly retrofitted for a/c (although heaters are fairly common), which is not easy and takes up some storage space). The windows on the newer ones are a little larger. You might want to look into the Holiday brand. Some of them had very large, wrap around front windows, a bed in the back, and the dinette converts to bed. You don't say how many kids you have. Sometimes older kids (>8 or 9 years) prefer the adventure of sleeping in a tent, in which case, the inside would be mostly for evening games, etc, and meals. That will give you a little more flexibility. At $4-6k, you will be at the basics of a trailer that just needs lipstick. We've said it before, and we will say it again... If you can find someone in your area that has some experience working on old trailers, or is a good handyman with plenty of tools and a will to learn, you might be best off getting one that needs work and having it done to your own wishes. Trailers that just need the pretty stuff are few and far between. Good luck!
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