New Lamps for Old, New Lamps for Old!

[bfrq25]

Within my circle of friends there is suspicion that some RV dealers could be swapping around new parts around for old or slightly used, on units before selling them.

Most recently an acquaintance discovered 2005 batteries in their new 2010 unit. Another believes the unit they bought as new came with used tires and rims.

Has any one else heard of this?

[Donna D.]

I suppose anything is possible. I believe the molded manufacturers to be totally honest however.

[Peter_Crowl]

Tire dates are easy to determine
Tire Tech Information - Determining the Age of a Tire

It's a good idea to check tire dates when you buy them as they can be old on the rack. 13" Special Trailer tires don't sell that quickly.

[MillerK]

With batteries, I believe but could be wrong, the date of manufacter is much less important than the date that the electrolyte is added, and initial charge is done. That is when the aging process really begins.

[Bud Kennedy]

In 1988 I found a surplus battery marked 1952. I added electrolite and put it in my airplane. The battery lasted for 10 years.

I am thinking that batteries last forever if stored dry.

[Gina D.]

I work at an RV dealer and to a certain degree, this is true. Often times, Peter is robbed to pay Paul on a used RV delivery. If the battery is bad on a sold unit, one (Or in the case of motorhomes 3 to 4) batteries will get pulled from a unit in stock to get the customer out the door. The replacement battery for Peter may or may not be new.

In the case of tires, A/Cs or any other part that requires a ton of labor to "replace".. this is not true. It costs more to pay the RV tech to do the swap than it does in perceived savings on a new part.

Most RV Dealers do not have the facilities to do tires either. The rig gets driven to a shop.

[bfrq25]

Thanks for the clarification Gina...makes sense. I guess it will always be buyer beware.