Question:
I am thinking about buying a tent trailer. What I would like to know is 1)
is the toilet worth the extra price? 2) what do good size new tent trailers
run? 3) what is a fair price for a good size used tent trailer? 4) what
should I look for in a used tent trailer as far as damage? 5) how long does
it take to set up a tent trailer? 6) the beds generally how much weight
will they hold?
Answer:
-On these issues, I have my own opinion. As for a toilet, I cant comment
since I do not have one in mine. I use a porta-potti in a screen room
for urinating at night. The CG facilities serve for all other purposes.
A new pop-up can run anywhere from $3500 to over $10,000. A fair price
on a used one will of course depend on the age/condition. I usually
find a real good unit can be found for around $2000. As far as what to
look for, check the underneath for rotting floor. Check the tires and
ask the owner when he last repacked his wheel bearings (this is very
important to perform this task every 2000 miles) - the lift system
should also be checked, and the condition of the canvas. Check
operation of the AC/heater/fridge, etc. As for the beds, they hold a
lot of weight. My Coleman rates its bed at 1000 lbs. They are always
very sturdy. As for setting up, ten to fifteen minutes, tops. You will
spend more time setting up the groceries and stuff than in erecting the
trailer.
-Check out the Frequently Asked Questions that they post in here once a
month. There are several excellent pointers for the first timer
considering purchasing a new pop-up (I guess this is what you mean by tent
trailer?). BTW, the term "pop-up" has been replaced with "folding trailer"
by the ever status conscious manufacturers.
I have owned a variety of RV,s, and we are back to a pop-up. Love it!
Pulls great behind a 6 cylinder pickup, has enough room for the 3 of us,
and boy is it easier to pull
