Buying auto-trail cheiftan (1 Viewer)

[mick56]

LOOKING ABOUT I SEE A TREND IN PRICING, IT SEEMS THAT DEALERS ARE HAVING A BAD YEAR,EVERYONE IS SKINT, THE WEATHER NO GOOD, SO STUCK WITH IN SOME CASES MILLIONS IN STOCK, AND THE BANK ON THEIR BACKS, THERE ARE SOME CHEAP MOTORS OUT THERE. IVE SEEN A 2000 AUTO-TRAIL CHEIFTAN SE, WITH 30.000M ON IT FOR £18000, WHAT IS GENERALLY ACCEPTED AS THE RIGHT PRICE FOR IT ?, SHOULD I BUY IT OR WAIT UNTIL LATER IN THE YEAR, WHEN I MIGHT GET AN EVEN BETTER DEAL SOMEWHERE, DO PRICES NORMALLY DROP OF AT THE END OF THE SEASON ? IVE NEVER BOUGHT A MH BEFORE, SO ANY COMMENTS WILL BE WELCOME, CHEERS, mick56 .

 

[Terry]

Hi Mick 18k for a 2000 model is cheap :thumb:Check it out thoroughly- damp etc and make sure everything works :thumb: then try and screw another few hundred off the price and buy it now
terry

 

[f6c]

auto-trail Chieftain

Must agree with Terry

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[Kayold]

Hi Mick
Seems a reasonable price if all is in order, but remember, size isn't everything!

I quite fancied the extra space and many manage with no problems but decided that the extra length may cause a few more problems in certain places. I have noticed some really good tag prices at dealers which suggests to me that they are not as popular as they once were.

As it's a first purchase think carefully on the layout / size as if you buy at that price from a dealer you will most likely lose on it if you find it doesn't suit.

 

[archie2000]

We have a 2000 Chieftain, bought it four and half years ago. No regrets, great van.
:thumb:

 

[Scout]

Hi Mick
Seems a reasonable price if all is in order, but remember, size isn't everything!

I quite fancied the extra space and many manage with no problems but decided that the extra length may cause a few more problems in certain places. I have noticed some really good tag prices at dealers which suggests to me that they are not as popular as they once were.

As it's a first purchase think carefully on the layout / size as if you buy at that price from a dealer you will most likely lose on it if you find it doesn't suit.

I echo this, I was looking to up size this year, but noticed that the bigger tag axle vans wernt selling, and smaller vans of the same type/make were holding prices better, if you really want a tag then go for it, if you have no px (sounds like you dont) then you have the upper hand.

Remember if your buying the unpopular item the dealer should bend a lot, try the old "I really like it, but need some help as Ive only got £XXXX" ploy

good luck

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[mick56]

buying a autotrail cheiftan

Thanks for all the comments, got logged onto some auctions, i reckon the dealers are going to have to stuff some cheiftans through with no reserve somewhen, just to keep the bank manager off their backs, reckon i will be in a good position then, thanks again, mick56.

 

[Pikey Pete]

Talking to a salesman at one of the UK's biggest dealers back in April, he indicated that all the dealers were bracing themselves for a very bad sales year.

Prices are down but then so are the trade in values. If you're buying without trading in or are a first time buyer then there are bargains to be had.

I don't think that £18k for a 2000 Chieftain is particularly cheap, in today's market.

Pete:Cool:

 

[Kayold]

Thanks for all the comments, got logged onto some auctions, i reckon the dealers are going to have to stuff some cheiftans through with no reserve somewhen, just to keep the bank manager off their backs, reckon i will be in a good position then, thanks again, mick56.

Or private sellers after getting rid of a damp and faulty piece of s£$%e! Some Dealers also tend to put the older M/Hs with problems to auction, their px that they give on older M/Hs is low and they certainly could do without giving a warranty (inc statutory protection) on M/Hs that are more likely to be in need of work or have known faults.
I have heard of auctions (and seen with my own eyes on ebay/autotrader) that often prices are fetching/asking more than a dealer is with a warranty.
Joe public selling is trying to recoup as close to their initial outlay as possible when selling but a dealer has usually paid a lot lower in px, therefore after allowing for a profit/repairs/warranty can often match and even beat private sellers with price and seem able to drop the screen price, which must have a built in figure of 1k at least to negotiate. I think the best bargain you will have is where you will be prepared to walk away after your lower offer, I suspect many sellers would rather have a sale than let a cash buyer walk away, even if it means taking a knock on the price, bird in the hand and all that..
I believe auctions (Measham etc) have a lot of snatchbacks, but that doesn't mean there won't be problems, so caveat emptor and good luck with your search!

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[mick56]

buying an autotrail cheiftan

clocked that mate, thanks , i used to dabble in cars, so the auction house is no stranger, theres a 2006 going at measham on 10/8/2012, what do you all reckon thats going to fetch? i was thinking of allowing £2000 for any problems, is that going to cover a worst case senario ? advice gentlemen please ! thanks MICK56.

 

[DesRes]

£2000 will not go very far to repair a bad damp problem...Get any van checked out before parting with your dosh.:thumb:

 

[Terry]

2k sounds a lot but if the van has damp it is a none starter unless you are handy:thumb: Then it is a good starting point
Check every thing works before you bid/buy :thumbo not be fooled that l/batt is flat etc,if that is the claim then start engine and make sure things work- turn fridge on and after a few mins feel the heat from back vent,if warm chances are fridge is ok :thumb:check both heater and boiler work as indeed all blinds/fly screens work-
You can soon run up a large bill if things do not work
£600 -fridge
£500-water heater
£500-heater£400/600 cooker-windows/blinds start at £200upwards
Buy a damp meter for a tenner upwards and have a good smell.
Terry

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[mick56]

buying a autotrail cheiftan

anybody know of a service, where i can hire a professional to vet a van for me, and give me a report / valuation ? cheers, mick56.

 

[Scout]

anybody know of a service, where i can hire a professional to vet a van for me, and give me a report / valuation ? cheers, mick56.

.

not cheap but very good

 

[Terry]

anybody know of a service, where i can hire a professional to vet a van for me, and give me a report / valuation ? cheers, mick56.

Hi Mick have a look at the attachments and print them off :thumb: take them with you when you look at m/hs and once you find one at the right layout/price you can tick everything off one by one -no need to pay just use common-sense :thumb:
terry

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[Terry]

It will not let me post the second list so here it is -a bit long

Collection / Inspection Tick Remark
1 Check exterior, inc roof, for damage / poor workmanship * *
1.1 Check for scuffs, cracks, scratches, transfers
1.2 External fitments – aerial, roof rack and ladder
1.3 Check all windows carefully for scratches

2 External check: * *
2.1 N/S front tyre size/type / wheel trim tight. Pressure * *
2.2 Side repeater indicators fitted. * *
2.3 High level light fitted. * *
2.4 Passenger's door closure and locking * *
2.5 Passenger's door security. * *
2.6 Fridge vents fitted and undamaged. * *
2.7 Fridge vent winter covers. * *
2.8 External light fitted. * *
2.9 Habitation door closure and locking. * *
2.10 Canopy fitted. * *
2.10.1 Demonstrate canopy operation. * *
2.10.2 Check canopy size & colour. * *
2.10.3 Check support arm foot brackets fitted. * *
2.10.4 Check support arms engage brackets. * *
2.10.5 Check canopy locked shut. * *
2.10.6 Winding arm and stowage place
2.10.7 Pay attention to quality of fitting
2.11 Electrical socket, lid and connection. Is there a hook up lead? * *
2.12 N/S rear tyres size/type / wheel trim tight. Pressure * *
2.13 Toilet cassette trap and lock. * *
2.13.1 Toilet cassette fitted. * *
2.13.2 Remove / inspect cassette. * *
2.13.3 Are toilet chemicals included
2.14 High level light fitted. * *
2.15 Rear lights condition / fog lights modified. * *
2.16 N/S steady. * *
2.17 Rear bumper damage / numberplate fitted. * *
2.18 Cycle rack.and fittings * *
2.19 Roof rack and ladder. * *
2.20 Spare wheel fitted – mini pump and sealant * *
2.21 O/S steady. * *
2.22 High level light fitted. * *
2.23 Grey tank waste valve damage/operation. * *
2.24 Boot trap and lock. * *
2.24.1 Heater installation / electric element. * *
2.24.2 Automatic drain valve & shutoffs * *
2.24.3 Battery installations * *
2.24.4 Cycle rack fitting. * *
2.25 O/S rear tyre size/type / wheel trim tight. Pressure * *
2.26 Gas bottle trap and lock. * *
2.26.1 Gas bottle fitted? * *
2.26.2 Gas cock open? * *
2.27 Heater flue + winter cover. * *
2.28 Water filler cap lockable. Check keys * *
2.29 High level light fitted. * *
2.30 Fuel tank cap fitted/lockable. Check keys * *
2.31 Driver's door closure and locking. * *
2.32 Driver's door security. * *
2.33 Side repeater indicator fitted. * *
2.34 O/S front tyre size/type / wheel trim tight. Pressure * *
2.35 Front bumper painted. * *
2.36 Front bumper damage / numberplate fitted. * *
2.37 Headlights condition & dipping direction * *
2.38 Windscreen condition. Windscreen trim * *
2.39 Underbonnet checks – oil, water, washer fluid, brake fluid
2.40 Garage – locks, shelving, lights, tie down rails
2.41 4 bike rack – fitting & operation
2.42 Lockers – locks and contents
2.43 Tool kit – jack, handle, locking nuts
2.44 Step operation
2.45 Tax disc in place – 12 months

3 Check base vehicle:
3.1 VIN as supplied for insurance * *
3.2 Operation of lights: * *
3.2.1 Side lights. * *
3.2.2 Headlamps dip. * *
3.2.3 Headlamps main. * *
3.2.4 Left indicators and repeaters. * *
3.2.5 Right indicators and repeaters. * *
3.2.6 Tail lights. * *
3.2.7 Brake lights. * *
3.2.8 Rear fogs. * *
3.2.9 Hazard. * *
3.3 Exterior mirror operation * *
3.3.1 Driver's * *
3.3.2 Passenger's * *
3.4 Cab window operation * *
3.4.1 Driver's * *
3.4.2 Blind * *
3.4.3 Passenger's * *
3.4.4 Blind * *
3.4.5 Windscreen blind. * *
3.5.1 Start: check instruments (fuel full?). * *
3.5.2 Sat Nav/Radio/CD – operation and manuals/codes
3.5.3 Reversing camera – operation and manuals
3.5.4 Cruise control – fitting, operation & manual
3.6 Seats operation: * *
3.6.1 Driver's: fore/aft, height & rake. * *
3.6.2 Passenger's: fore/aft. * *
3.7 Fan operation. * *
3.8 Heater operation. * *
3.9 Two airbags. * *
3.10 Seatbelts and pretensioners. * *
3.11 A/C present and working. * *
3.12 Tinted windows and screen. * *
3.13 3.0 litre power version (VIN + handbook). * *
3.14 Engine *chassis numbers (record). * *
3.15 Alarm fitment, operation, cert & manuals inc codes
3.16 Keys for all doors.

4 Check conversion: * *
4.1 Control panel live, mains connected? * *
4.2 Pump on? * *
4.3 Water in tank? * *
4.4 All gas taps on? * *
4.5 Heater on? * *
4.6 Fridge on? * *

5 Manuals: * *
5.1 Fiat manual? * *
5.2 Burstner manual? * *
5.3 Fridge manual? * *
5.4 Hob, extractor, oven manuals & warranties * *
5.5 Pump manual? * *
5.6 TV/DVD manual & warranty
5.7 Body aircon manual & warranty
5.8 Alarm manual & warranty

6 Generally, internal: * *
6.1 Upholstery for fabric as ordered. * *
6.2 Drapes etc for presence/quality. * *
6.3 Curtain around bed. * *
6.4.1 Floor covering for faults/damage. * *
6.4.2 Check connecting door operation and catches * *

6.5 Wardrobe:
6.5.1 Door. * *
6.5.2 Latch. * *
6.5.3 Hanging rail. * *
6.5.4 Road heating. * *

6.6 Washroom: * *
6.6.1 Lighting. * *
6.6.2 Rooflight: * *
6.6.2.1 Operation, plus blocking catch. * *
6.6.2.2 Blind. * *
6.6.2.3 Flyscreen. * *
6.6.3 Shower: * *
6.6.3.1 Tray damage. * *
6.6.3.2 Head fitted and secure. * *
6.6.3.3 Cubicle cupboard and light. * *
6.6.3.4 Works. * *
6.6.3.5 Cubicle door and retention. * *
6.6.4 Toilet: * *
6.6.4.1 Damage. * *
6.6.4.2 Swivel. * *
6.6.4.3 Flush. * *
6.6.4.4 Cover and seat. * *
6.6.5 Heater outlet. * *
6.6.6 Basin: * *
6.6.6.1 Damage. * *
6.6.6.2 Tap works, hot and cold. * *
6.6.6.3 Drains OK. * *
6.6.6.4 Leakage. * *
6.6.6.5 Cupboard and doors. * *
6.6.6.6 Latches. * *
6.6.7 Washroom mirror. * *
6.6.8 Washroom swivel mirror. * *
6.6.9 Sliding storage rack: * *
6.6.9.1 Action. * *
6.6.9.2 Attachments. * *
6.6.9.3 Latch. * *
6.6.10 Door: * *
6.6.10.1 Damage. * *
6.6.10.2 Closure. * *
*
6.7 Rear Bed Area:
6.7.1 Rear windows: * *
6.7.1.1 Operation. * *
6.7.1.2 Blinds. * *
6.7.1.3 Flyscreens. * *
6.7.2 Side window. * *
6.7.2.1 Operation. * *
6.7.2.2 Blinds. * *
6.7.2.3 Flyscreens. * *
6.7.3 Rooflight: * *
6.7.3.1 Operation, plus blocking catch. * *
6.7.3.2 Blind. * *
6.7.3.3 Flyscreen. * *
6.7.4 High level cupboards. * *
6.7.4.1 Doors. * *
6.7.4.2 Shelves. * *
6.7.4.3 Latches. * *
6.7.5 Lighting: * *
6.7.5.1 Operation. * *
6.7.6 Mattress. * *
6.7.7 Slatted base. * *
6.7.8 Prop?? * *
6.7.9 Hinges. * *
6.7.10 Heater installation / 240V water heater. * *
6.7.11 Heating ducts. * *
6.7.12 Waste pipe extension tube. * *
6.7.13 Power sockets * *
6.7.14 Steps and cupboard

6.8 TV cupboard: * *
6.8.1 Doors actions. * *
6.8.2 Turntable. * *
6.8.3 Power/aerial supplies. * *
6.8.4 TV/DVD works well

6.9 Cupboards/drawers unit. * *
6.9.1 Doors. * *
6.9.2 Latches. * *
6.9.3 Drawers action. * *
6.9.4 Drawers latches. * *
6.9.5 Cutlery drawer liner. * *
6.9.6 Gas cock installation. * *
*
6.10 Banquette:
6.10.1 Rooflight: * *
6.10.1.1 Operation, plus blocking catch. * *
6.10.1.2 Blind. * *
6.10.1.3 Flyscreen. * *
6.10.2 Side window. * *
6.10.2.1 Operation. * *
6.10.2.2 Blinds. * *
6.10.2.3 Flyscreens. * *
6.10.3 Upholstery: * *
6.10.3.1 Workmanship. * *
6.10.3.2 Marks. * *
6.10.3.3 Sofa recline operation
6.10.3.4 Seatbelt fitments and operation
6.10.4 Table & extension: * *
6.10.4.1 Damage. * *
6.10.4.2 Stability. * *
6.10.4.3 Adjustment. * *
6.10.4.4 Removal. * *
6.10.4.5 Bar fixings. * *
6.10.4.6 Conversion into bed method
6.10.5 Seat bases: * *
6.10.5.1 Water tank access lids installed. * *
6.10.5.2 Water tank access lids open. * *
6.10.5.3 Water tank installation. * *
6.10.5.4 Cleaning cap, drain plug and chain. * *
6.10.5.5 Filler pipe connections. * *
6.10.5.6 Freedom from leaks. * *
6.10.6 High level cupboards. * *
6.10.6.1 Doors. * *
6.10.6.2 Shelves. * *
6.10.6.3 Latches. * *
6.10.6.4 Speakers and wiring. * *
6.10.7 Lighting under cupboards: * *
6.10.7.1 Correct items fitted. * *
6.10.7.2 Operation. * *
6.10.8 Main light: * *
6.10.8.1 Changed. * *
6.10.8.2 Operating. * *

6.11 Cab:
6.11.1 Seat swivels. *
6.11.1.1 Driver's * *
6.11.1.2 Passenger's * *
6.11.2 Seat upholstery workmanship / marks * *
6.11.2.1 Driver's * *
6.11.2.2 Passenger's * *
6.11.3 High level cupboards. * *
6.11.3.1 Doors. * *
6.11.3.2 Latches. * *
*
6.12 Kitchen:
6.12.1 Side window. *
6.12.1.1 Operation. * *
6.12.1.2 Blinds. * *
6.12.1.3 Flyscreens. * *
6.12.2 High level cupboards. * *
6.12.2.1 Doors. * *
6.12.2.2 Shelves. * *
6.12.2.3 Latches. * *
6.12.3 Lighting under cupboard: * *
6.12.3.1 Operating. * *
6.12.4 Sockets. * *
6.12.5 Low level cupboard. * *
6.12.5.1 Door. * *
6.12.5.2 Shelf. * *
6.12.5.3 Latch. * *
6.12.6 Fridge: * *
6.12.6.1 Damage. * *
6.12.6.2 Shelves. * *
6.12.6.3 Egg container. * *
6.12.6.4 Bottom bin/s. * *
6.12.6.5 Light. * *
6.12.6.6 Gas. * *
6.12.6.7 12V. * *
6.12.6.8 240V. * *
6.12.7 Hob & oven: * *
6.12.7.1 Lids & doors open / stays open. * *
6.12.7.2 All burners light. * *
6.12.7.3 Lid closes / stays closed. * *
6.12.7.4 Taps operate correctly. * *
6.12.7.5 Chips / damage. * *
6.12.7.6 Grill pan
6.12.8 Sink: * *
6.12.8.1 Chips / damage. * *
6.12.8.2 Tap works, hot and cold. * *
6.12.8.3 Drains OK. * *
6.12.8.4 Leakage. * *
6.12.8.5 Chopping board. * *

6.13 Overcab Bed
6.13.1 Mattress, ladder, lift and catches to secure
6.13.2 Window & Heiki operation

6.14 Entrance: *
6.14.1 Control panel: *
6.14.1.1 Operation. * *
6.14.1.2 Damage. * *
6.14.1.3 Workmanship. * *
6.14.2 Hooks/hangers. * *
6.14.3 Shoe horn. * *
6.14.4 Door mat. * *
6.14.5 Door liner condition. * *
6.14.6 Lights switch. * *
6.14.7 Heating stat and control * *
6.14.8 Electric water heating control. * *
6.14.9 Locking. * *
6.14.10 Display cabinet – check glass, shelves, catches

 

[Scout]

this one looks ok,

ebay number 310418395949

dissclaimer: nothing to do with me and no knowlage of other than ebay

EDIT: just looked again and its got the extra seat belts in the cabin as well, these are fairly hard to find and a good extra