Buying a Used RV Class B Conversion Van
Important Used Conversion Van Features
Features vary widely, by size and make of the used conversion van, so you'll want to make sure your used conversion van meets your needs in the following areas:
- Sleeping (space and privacy) - Be sure the beds for adults are full size. Only larger used conversion vans have beds which stay beds; but sofas and dinettes which convert to beds can be quite comfortable, especially for children and teenagers.
- Galley - All used conversion vans will have a stove, refrigerator or a small freezer compartment and a preparation area, plus space to store dry groceries. There may be a regular or a microwave oven. There will be fresh water stored in tanks for drinking and cooking; but you may prefer bottled water for your used conversion van.
- Shower and Toilet - Used conversion van toilets are efficient marine-type toilets. Since many campgrounds have excellent wash houses, you can supplement your used conversion van's facilities during overnight stops.
- Keeping Cool or Warm - In warmer climates, you'll want a separate roof-top air conditioning unit for your used conversion van, in addition to the automotive unit. Even in summer, you may need heat during chilly nights.
- Generating Your Own Electricity - This will be important if you are heading for the wilderness, away from commercial campgrounds, and desire to be truly self- contained. Many units come equipped with efficient, gasoline-driven RV generators which will meet your needs for electricity.
- Driving features - Consider whether power steering, power brakes, automatic transmission and/or cruise control is important in a used conversion van.
Used Conversion Van Values
While conversion vans give you more vehicle for your money today, their reputation as quality products helps them maintain their value tomorrow when the lease is up or it's time to trade in.
Quality workmanship, materials and overall product dependability coupled with warranties for all the conversion additions, makes conversion vans attractive on the resale market. In addition to the basic chassis warranty from the auto manufacturer, converters provide warranties on all the add-on products that are equal to or better than what's offered by the chassis maker -- the same warranty you've come to expect on automobiles and SUVs.
RV Camping World strongly recommends the use of third party sites for reference on the value of new and used conversion vans and vehicles. This information helps the transaction between a consumer and private seller or dealer flow smoothly, so that both parties are satisfied and become business partners for life. For third party used conversion van sale data, check out:
- KBB (Kelley Blue Book)
- Nada Guides
- Edmunds.com