Is the 1998 trail lite camper worth buying?
By
Elaine Knight
In this blog post, we will answer the question: “Is the 1998 trail lite camper worth buying?” We will list the features and specifications of the 1998 trail lite camper. We will also describe the reasons to avoid buying an old camper. Additionally, we will discuss the things to look for while purchasing an old camper.
Is the 1998 trail lite camper worth buying?
No, the 1998 trail lite camper is not worth buying at present since it is an old camper with outdated features. These camper trailers might not have some of the features and specs that are present in the recent trailers. However, if you are into vintage trailers, this can be a good option to purchase. It also depends on the purpose of buying the camper.
For those who love purchasing vintage trailers as a hobby, it can be worth buying. However, it is not a good idea to purchase a 1998 trail lite camper since there are sure to be a few difficulties. The 1998 trail lite camper also has mixed reviews in terms of overall quality, livability, and other specifications.
1998 trail lite camper features and specs
The 1998 trail lite camper was considered to be a good motorhome back then when it was manufactured. There were several variations of these campers and their features were good back then. These trail lite campers were manufactured and produced by R-Vision. Some of the features are specs of these campers are listed below.
Generic specifications
- Sleeping capacity – 4
- Fiberglass exterior skin
- Slide outs – 2
- Bedrooms – 2
- Length – 15 feet
- Enclosed chassis
- Think wall construction
- Laminated aluminum framed construction
- Optional radial tires
- Independent torsion suspension
- Ducted air conditioning
- Rubber roof
Appliances and equipment
- Dometic refrigerator flush mount
- 3 burner range top
- Power range hood with light
- Six-gallon water heater
- 20,000 BTU furnace
- By-pass water heater kit
- Laminated gallery
- Monitor panel
- Bathroom features
- ABS Tub
- Thetford toilet
- Medicine cabinet with mirror
- Power roof vent
- Shower curtain
Electrical specs
- Patio light with amber lens
- 120 V GFI protected circuits
- 120 V fuse panel
- 45 AMP whisper convert with charger
- 30 AMP 28-inch power chord
- Battery box with positive ventilation
Exterior Features
- Rubber roof
- Fiberglass skin
- Powder-coated steel chassis
- Flush mound front window awning
- 26-inch entry door with radius corners
- Locking baggage doors
- Break away switch
- Enclosed heated undercarriage
- Sewer hose compartment
Interior Features
- Reversible dinette cushions
- Cabinet bunks
- Mimi is blind at the galley
- No way vinyl flooring
- Partial carpet area
- Overhead cabinets with under cabinet shelves
- Oak Mortise cabinet doors
- High-pressure laminated countertops
- Bedspread with double twin or queen bed
- Headboard with double twin or queen bed.
Running gear specs
- Radial trailer tires
- White spoke wheels with 10-inch electric brakes
- Independent torsion suspension with system rubber ride
- Welded box channel
- Tubular steel frame
- Seamless roto-cast wheel wells.
Those are some of the common features and specs that are found in the 1998 trail lite camper models. Some of these features are still incredible today, but not all of these features are luxurious, especially with the latest developed technology. The 1998 trail lite camper was worth buying until five years from the date of manufacturer.
Reasons to avoid old campers
There are reasons why people avoid purchasing used campers or motorhomes. Here are a few reasons listed below.
- Used campers do not look as good as new
- Campers more than 10 years old are not allowed in most RV parks or campsites
- It is hard to find spare parts for campers that are more than 10 years old
- Old campers do not come with a guarantee
- Old campers need proper insurance
- Documentation for old campers is difficult
- Old campers do not have the latest features and specifications
Old campers lack a good appearance
There is no doubt in the fact that old campers lack good appearance. While many people try to cover it up by painting old campers, the truth is that they do not fit in well. As much as you try to remodel the appearance of an old camper, they are still not going to give you a look like a new camper, and that feeling alone keeps many people away from buying an old one.
The 10-year rule at RV parks
One of the biggest drawbacks in purchasing an old camper is that you might struggle to enter an RV park or campsite. Most RV parks and campsites follow the 10-year rule, which means motorhomes that are more than 10 years old are not allowed in RV parks. The 1998 camper for example will not be allowed inside RV parks and campsites.
It is hard to find spare parts or replacements
An old camper is most likely to have fragile and damaged parts. Replacing such parts is going to be a tough challenge since most of them might not be available in the market. Old wiring and other amenities that were manufactured a decade ago will need to be replaced. Finding and replacing these is not easy.
There is no guarantee
- Purchasing an old camper from its previous owner is not going to have any guarantee. This means you need to be prepared for any repairs after your purchase and you need to bear the expense on your own.
The paperwork is a tough process
- The paperwork and other documentation are not easy with old campers. You will need to ensure that all the documents are perfect from the previous owner and you will also need to get proper insurance for your camper.
There are no latest features
- This goes without saying as the old campers lack the latest features. The specs and features will not keep up with the latest technology and innovation. Many people prefer to have the latest features and specifications. Hence, they avoid going in for an old camper or trailer.
Things to look for while purchasing an old camper
- There are several things to look into while purchasing an old camper. Here is a list of important things to consider.
Look for the tire condition
- Worn-out tires are one of the first things to look for since they are expensive to replace. The condition of the tires can also help you determine the usage of the vehicle.
Look for rust
- Be sure to look for rust and avoid campers that have excessive rust. Too much rust is going to be an issue and you will need to spend on repairs. Ensure to look for rust on the underside and covered areas of the camper.
Check the engine thoroughly
- Checking the engine thoroughly is crucial and old campers are known for having engine issues. Take a professional along with you to check the engine thoroughly.
Check the interior roof, walls, and floor
- Look at the condition of the interior roof, walls, and floor. In some situations, the roof of the camper might have cracks and leaks. Check the walls for any damage or brittle areas. The same thing applies to the floor.
Check the cabinets, doors, and windows
- Look if the cabinets are in good condition and also double check on the doors and windows. The kitchen cabinets and other accessories are equally important.
Check the air conditioner and furnace
- If the camper has an air conditioner and furnace, be sure to check if they are in working condition. The best way to get a proper full checkup is by taking a professional along with you while making your purchase.
The 1998 trail light camper is not worth buying since it is considered an old camper. There are not many 1998 trail light campers that are available and most of them might not be in proper condition. It is always better to avoid purchasing a camper that is more than 10 years to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have answered the question: “Is the 1998 trail lite camper worth buying?” We have listed the features and specifications of the 1998 trail lite camper. We have also described the reasons to avoid purchasing an old camper. Additionally, we will discuss the things to look for while purchasing an old camper.
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