A Checklist For Evaluating Used Apache Ramada Campers
Although they are no longer being made, many people still love the classic Apache Ramada camper -- and it is certainly still possible to purchase these units. But before you do, there are a few things that you need to check out -- if you don't, you could be stuck with a lemon, instead of a treasure! So here are some things to look for -- consider it your own "personal buyers checklist. Used Apache Armada: Outside InspectionLet's begin our evaluation starting with the outside. If your Apache Ramada camper is the type that has a folding canvas body, you should begin by inspecting its condition. What you want to look for here are any signs of tearing or wearing, pinching or any patch jobs that may have been done in the past. Personally, I would not purchase an Apache Ramada camper used if the canvas siding was in poor condition -- this only increases the likelihood that you will have leaks when the weather turns nasty.
On the other hand, if your Apache Ramada camper is a hard-body model, then you will need to examine the side panels. Do you see any areas of rust, any evidence that the paneling is loose or corroded? These and should send up a red flag. You should also be concerned if you see dents in the paneling, cracks and suchlike. Now take and run your hand along the surface of the side panels of this Apache Ramada camper -- does the surface feel rough or smooth? If it feels rough, it may be evidence of a corroded area which has simply been painted over.
While you're on the outside, test the external running lights to make sure they light up. You should also take a good look at the propane tank set up. Are your propane tanks in good shape? Do they fit snugly in their bracket? Is there any sign of rust, dents, a bent frame, or corrosion? Also, take a good look at the fittings and valves and the gas lines in general to make sure they are tight fitting and in good shape. Don't play around with your gas tank system, as if you have a gas leak it could cause real problems.
Now inspect the roof. The easiest way to do this is to ask the present owner to collapse the unit if necessary, to lower the roof down for convenient viewing. If this is not possible, then get a ladder and examine the top of your Apache Ramada camper -- again, that your roof is free from signs of rust, corrosion, denting and does not show signs of repair. The last thing you want is to purchase is a camper with a leaky roof, right?
Now pop your head underneath of the camper -- inspect the frame, suspension, wheels and axles for any obvious signs of deterioration. If you notice a brand-new coat of paint on the under framing of a 30-year-old camper, you need to ask why it was painted -- was something fixed and repaired? Was it involved in an accident? Buying a used Apache Ramada camper with a frame in bad condition is a big no-no, in my judgment.Used Apache Armada: Inside InspectionIf you find major problems with the external area of the used camper, it's time to bow out. But if everything looks okay, then you are ready for the next phase: examination of the interior.
A good place to begin is with the condition of your appliances. If the Apache Ramada camper is equipped with a stove, sink, and furnace, air conditioner, etc., then you need to inspect these units for signs of wear and tear, deterioration, loose handles, knobs and fixtures, dents and so forth. Of course, you want to make sure that all of the appliances are working -- absolutely refuse to make a purchase until you have verified that EVERYTHING that should be working on your used Apache Ramada camper IS actually working.
What about the electrical system? If you've used this handy checklist, you have already verified that the external running lights are in working order, but you should also test the indoor lights by switching them on and off -- every single one of them. Take a small portable electrical shaver along with you and plug it in to all of the electrical outlets to verify that these are working as well.
Finally, as you are walking around, try to get a feel for the "feel" of your floor -- if it seems like it has too much "give" to it, this could be an indication that the floor is not in good shape -- and you will need to check this out further (if necessary, by examining the camper from underneath). And, of course, don't forget to ask the present owner how long they have had this unit -- beware if they have only owned it a few years and are now trying to sell it -- and also try to determine their reason for wanting to sell the camper at this time.
If you follow the simple recommendations, you will be amazed at the number of problems you may discover -- and your mind will rest much easier, if you do decide to purchase a used Apache Ramada camper, knowing that it has "passed the test." Good luck to you on your next purchase!
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