Suggestions on buying a camper based on your experiences?

[SLO_F-250]

Well I thought I'd give ya'll a quick update: I put a deposit down on an older ('95) Alaskan 8' popup camper. Let the party begin :wings:

Found it on craigslist a couple hours away. Was garage kept when not in use (out on road now cause he wanted it sold) It raised and lowered smooth. Seals look in good shape. Interior is outdated but in good shape. Has sink, stove, fridge, and furnace. Lights worked. We didn't fire up the furnace but says he uses it in winter up here and it heats the camper no problem. I didn't feel any air leaks around the windows or bed area where the hard panels swing up, and it was windy outside. No toilet or shower but I'll work with what I've got for now.

We agreed on $1800

This gives me something where at least I can get out on the road, and start working on the truck the way I want it. I'll be able to dial in the suspension and engine tuning once I've got the camper on the back.

Thank you everyone, I certainly appreciate your suggestions and believe I'm going to be quite happy with this camper!

Carl,
Looks like you found yourself a deal! Nice find! :Wow1: Good luck with your new camper. Dont forget to take pictures and update us on your modifications and trips!
Cheers,
Paul

 

[fisher205]

Congratlations Carl,
As far as a toilet goes just get a Thetford Casstte toilet. They work good and should fit in the back closet. That should have the old catalytic heater with external exhaust. They don't use electricty. We just do sponge baths unless it's warm enough to use the solar shower outside. Hope you enjoy your camper.

Brad

 

[topofpalomar]

Way to go, Carl!!! After the great suggestions and comments I think you made the right choice for your needs. And it looks pretty good, too. Hope you can get out west with it someday and pay us a visit. Keep us all posted on your upgrades.

Cliff

 

[driller]

alaskan camper

Carl, does this camper have an electric hydraulic pump or the hand pump? The picture looks like an older model than 1995. My 1991 has tinted windows with rounded corners and electric hydraulics.
Alaskan changed the hydraulics in 1990. Just asking not wanting to stir anything up.

 

[Carl2500]

Thanks guys. I'll look into the cassette toilet there. Hope to make it out that way too Cliff I'll be sure to let ya know.

Driller, It had the manual hydraulic pump, I should've gotten the serial number of the unit while I was there, will have to get that tomorrow. Thanks for bringing that up, it's something I'd certainly like to know.

 

[fisher205]

There were a lot of variations in the build of the campers since there were built in several locations. Mine was built in Colorado, some of the other locations included Cal., Pen. and Canada. But that does look more like an 80's or older model (not that they have changed much since the 50's). Check http://www.wanderthewest.com/forum/index.php?/forum/18/? for more info.

Brad