81 Winnebago values/potential issues

[Matt Ellis]

So I drop by this yard sale in my neighborhood and notice this Winnebago there for sale.  I see its pretty clean looking, they're trying to get rid of it. '81 Winnebago "Brave" with 64k on it and its Chrysler 360 Engine. All mechanical records in a big fat book, with a note saying, "Sat for 5 years then bought, Mechanic says all it needs is to Run it for awhile and she'll be good".  I'd need to see the smoke on this one.  Black smoke good...Blue, no bueno.  I havent owned a Chrysler Engined product and would like insight, but I'm not a fan at the moment.  Hmm, interesting. It looks clean, albeit faded.  I see its carbuerator and remember having to rebuild one myself because of that.  I can do this maybe, but it sometimes is no fun, because a tune up may follow, then points, coil, etc.  I know that interiors are built pretty cheap on these things and would need work. But what about all the other components/ Generator/AC unit/Fridge/stove? Most importantly the Generator, plumbing, water tank, various pumps, wiring, Etc? Can I hear some good/bad scenarios?  Positive I see here is that its got its records, which I'd like to go through.  I also have a good mechanic that works on RVs and can check it out.  I"ve heard already roofs can be nightmares, and I've noticed some of the putty/caulking jobs one sees on the seams.  Owner originally wanted 3500 and then dropped it down to 2400.  I'm thinking I might try and throw 1500 cash if it seems worthy.  Can I hear some wisdom and best worst case scenario one might find with a 81 Winnebago Brave? He said it was unique being it had a freezer too.  Any Brave owners out there give me a shout!  I would love to hear from you. Matt

[Matt Ellis]

Update:  The Seller of this 81' winnebago wants to get rid of it being he can't move it to get emissions.  I asked what happened, and he said that they reversed the polarity of the battery cables and now the starter won't even turn over after getting the cables on right. Could this mean his electrical system is fried Or Just a fuse needs replaced?

[Matt Ellis]

@ Matt Nice!  40k on a KY. Boat....See The the picture of this 81 Winnie Below...

A or C Winnie 360?  Got my alphabet mixed up?  I dunno fellas...it said 360 ci, I saw a 360CI in that thar engine bay.  I believe.. Come to Englewood c

[Tim Dailey]

I think thats a good economical choice.   I'm very surprised to find out its a Class A, their brochures indicate the only way to get a 360 in 81 was in the Class C models.   All of their Brave Class As are being advertised with a Chevy 350.

[Matt Ellis]

Guys, thanks for your comments. Based on what I've read and what my mechanic saw when he looked at it.  That Class A  Winne is an old Kite that I won't be going with.  At a minimum I'd be at least changing the tires for a grand most likely.  It is the square front end. I imagine taking this thing to Wyoming or somewhere windy and getting blown off the road, or making 40 mph @ 2mpg or something.  I'm now thinking more minnie winnie with better aerodynamics or some type of Van conversion at the least.  My Girlfriend and I may end up going with a truck/trailer combo anyway for the versatility of having a truck.  I got a long way to go. Thanks again for the feedback. Matt

[Tim Dailey]

Mini Winnie  < Should be what your looking at.   You'll have no problems finding parts, even my 72 on a M300 everything is still available.    As Matthew stated, be cautious of gas mileage, but being how its a C, I bet it does pretty good.   I think my 72 is the big square front end hes referring to with poor gas mileage.    The designers decided to defy the logic of aerodynamics.    

[Tim Dailey]

An 81 360, I'm guessing its a mini winnie?  Class C?   The 360s were virtually bulletproof and in my opinion probably one of the best engines Chrysler ever made.   360s were used in just about every truck and van Chrysler made, so they are plentiful and parts can be obtained. That being said the rig is 31 years old, so expect to work on it or expect to pay someone out the rear to keep it running for you.    The good news, if you can be your own mechanic, keeping these rigs running will not shrink the bank account too badly.   Also 81 is still old enough that the mechanics and the electronics are not going to be too complicated for the average DIYer.

AC units and fridges can get beyond the reach of the average DIYer for repair, and also can cost a bit of money to replace.  So if both of those are working, thats great.   Pluming, Water Tanks, pumps, coach wiring, stuff like that, easy DIY.   Pretty much nothing more than your probably already do when something in your home breaks.

Like Jimco said, check for signs of leaks.  REALLY check the roof / ceiling out.  Water damage is the worst enemy an RV owner can experience.   Soft spots in floors can be fixed fairly cheap and easy.   For some, roofs might be more than the average DIYer wants to tackle. Dad and I replaced my entire roof, and to be honest, tearing it off was the hardest part, so again, it just depends on your skills. 

So my opnion...   If your a guy who frequents the local hardware shop, 2400 sounds like a good deal.  But if you get lost in Home Depot, its a gamble of mechanics and your checkbook.  ;)

[Jimco_W001]

One thing I do know about these older RV's is to watch out for a rotten or weak roof.You can check this by standing in the middle of the unit and pushing up on it.If it moves up and down its time for a new one.

And be prepared for sometimes hard to find brake parts.