Lakota, question...

[Dawn Michelle]

Hi Lakota - or anyone that wants to answer.  Not sure how to append to the original discussion...

Well, my chap went out and looked at that Mallard on the Dodge truck chassis (5.9 360 v8).  Happily the camper was in great shape, appliances worked etc.  Nothing spongy, no delamination, etc.  Started up with a couple pumps to the gas pedal to prime it (I had a truck like that) and he said it ran well enough. Not like a kitten, but like you'd expect an older motor.  He actually used to drive a truck this model, so nothing unexpected in how it sounded.  Unfortunately, no plates.  Sooo. No driving to check the gears.  

If we make the jump on this, and it turns out we need to replace the tranny - how expensive a repair are we looking at?  What about dropping a new motor in?  I'm willing to consider this because of how long we've been searching to this type, and the camper part is in such good shape.  And the price is right, leaving us with money to invest...but obviously knowing worse case would help me decide whether I am comfortable taking the risk.

[Lakota Wolf]

Hi Dawn,,,, engines and trans are not really expensive,, considering their purpose,,, On average,, Salvage yards have Dodge transmissions,, in the $200 range, or a rebuild runs about $375,,, depending on the market where your at. 318,360, and 440's are still around in scrap yards, around $450... and new crate engines are running around $800.up to $1600 for a complete drop and go.

It sounds like the engine ya have just needs a good ole fashioned tune up and some run time,, blow out them cobwebs,

With a solid frame and body and it being structurely sound,, you already ahead of the restoration game.. Engines and trans are not a biggy.

[Dawn Michelle]

Hmmm.  In that case, I could have both replaced and STILL come out ahead of what I'd pay for something here (with unknown issues still hanging over it).  Certainly worth considering the gamble.  I could still sell it here for a profit.  

I think he's honest why he's selling it (has two boys and they don't want to sleep together anymore on that top bunk so wants something bigger).  And, I'd like to think a man who takes that good care of the camper and cab couldn't have ruined both the engine and tranny.  You know what I mean, you can tell when a saddle has been rode hard put up wet.  This didn't have any of those earmarks.  

[Dawn Michelle]

Well, the gentleman accepted our offer, and we'll get a chance to test drive it in a parking lot (mall and church nearby) before signing.  He said he ran it just a month ago.  So here's hoping for that lucky roll of the dice I mentioned.  Once we get the paperwork signed (sealed, and delivered) I'll post pictures here.  But now what group on Good Old RVs do I belong to?!

[Lakota Wolf]

You can join any group you want,,, they have Class C group.. But you can join all of them if you want to,,, or none at all..... we are all family here and enjoy all the designs of the rigs out there.