Looking for second pop up... Help!

[csm672]

I'm sure everyone asks wich camper to buy or wich is the best brand when buying their 1st camper.  We use to have an old Starcraft that we didn't really like and so went back to tents.  Two years and two girls later we are in the market for a pop up!  I know what we want as far as layout goes and pretty much what options we would like.  We would like to buy used to save some money.  I need to know what to look out for in general with all the manufacturers.  I have heard about Coleman abs roofs and know to shy away from this.  Any other tips on other brands?  I thought the Starcraft we had was built well, but I really have nothing to compare it to.  Any help would be greatly apprecciated!  Thanks, Casey

[ScouterMom]

I also had an old starcraft which we outgrew and sold, and recently bought another, larger starcraft to refurbish.

I agree that the older starcrafts seem to be built pretty well - you do see quite a few that have survived - even after they've been neglected and abused -  but I would not worry so much about a particular 'Brand' in buying used, as much as I would look for one that had been maintained (or that you felt comfortable with the repairs it might need) and that has the size and features you want.  The only 'brand' issue I would caution is to stay with the major brands - because you can get parts and information on them - and stay away from any known issues if you can - like the coleman ABS roofs.

I looked at all kinds, and kinda wanted to stay with a Starcraft or Jayco, I can't really say why - but I don't really like fiberglass or plastic bodies - I like the aluminum ones better.  I knew I was looking for a 'fixer-upper' ( real cheap) and ended up with another Starcraft.  Having done some work on the other vintage starcraft, at least I felt I knew how this one was probably put together. I also looked at some new ones, but they were way out of my budget.  Still, it taught me something about how the campers are put together and what to look for. If you watch and look around, there are some good deals to be had on used PUP's - just be patient and learn all you can.  

Laura

[csm672]

Thanks ScouterMom!  We will probably buy one in need of minor repairs.  I bought the old Starcraft and had to rebuild the roof.  I put alot of work into that camper and then decided we didn't like it!  We have a Jayco dealer and a Palomino (I think) dealer here in town.  I will probably go by them to see if they have any used ones.  I will probably end up buying from an individual, though.  Are there any other known issues with any pop ups besides the Coleman 1 piece roofs?  Thanks, Casey