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Old 05-24-2008, 12:40 AM   #1
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Trailer: 17 ft Casita Liberty Deluxe
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I'm planning on purchasing a 03 17ft casita 400 miles from home if all goes well. my TV is a gmc sierra 5.3L. Do I need to get a brake controller to tow the casita home? What is the best way on checking if the refrig (3way) works well. (Should I ask seller to run the refrig on propane overnight prior to my inspection) .-Thanks
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Old 05-24-2008, 04:05 AM   #2
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Trailer: 95 Casita Spirit Deluxe 16 ft
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I pull a 16' with a 04 GMC XUV with no brake hook-up all the time with no problems... Just be sure to drive with it in mind... Can always add that after your home settled... Most owners are honest about what works & what does not. An 03 should be in good shape, iI would think... Check the tires & such & take it easy coming home.. Once home in your own element You can make it your own. Make sure you have the light plug necessary to connect to the 7 plug on Casita... If TV is only a flat 4 plug there are adapters you can use to get home with lights at least... Good luck & safe travels... Kenn
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Old 05-24-2008, 09:34 PM   #3
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Riz,
I would think twice before towing a 17 that far without trailer brakes. I connected my controller improperly one time and thus had no trailer brakes. The difference was amazing. I literally rolled through the first stop sign I came to!

If you plan to get the controller eventually, why not now?

On the refrigerator, it takes at least several hours to see any cooling.

Marv
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Old 05-24-2008, 09:39 PM   #4
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To paraphrase Marv, if you plan on getting a controller, the sooner the better.

For two main reasons, it's easier on the tugs brakes and it's far cheaper to replace trailer brakes than most tug brakes.

Notice, I not once mentioned stopping.... to me it's a case of good economics.
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Old 05-25-2008, 09:39 AM   #5
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Thanks Donna. Let me give you another example. Before the Casita, we had pop-ups. After towing (and stopping) 1200 lb trailers without trailer brakes, stopping the 3000 lb Casita was hard to believe. It was like the trailer wasn't even there.
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Old 05-25-2008, 10:44 AM   #6
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I'd agree with others - get the brake controller as soon as possible. It makes a big difference - and just being careful yourself doesn't allow for the Yahoos that will cut you off and force a quick stop.

I'd ask for a full tour of the camper - like a housing inspection. If for no other reason than so you know how everything works (and as a double check that it does work). The manuals are often less than clear (I find the fridge especially difficult to understand - it often covers several models none of which seem to operate exactly like mine).

Good luck! I'm sure you're going to love your new trailer
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Old 05-25-2008, 03:23 PM   #7
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Trailer: 17 ft Casita Liberty Deluxe
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Quote:
I'd agree with others - get the brake controller as soon as possible. It makes a big difference - and just being careful yourself doesn't allow for the Yahoos that will cut you off and force a quick stop.

I'd ask for a full tour of the camper - like a housing inspection. If for no other reason than so you know how everything works (and as a double check that it does work). The manuals are often less than clear (I find the fridge especially difficult to understand - it often covers several models none of which seem to operate exactly like mine).

Good luck! I'm sure you're going to love your new trailer
Thanks everyone for the great tips. I had a break controller installed since i'll need it anyway if this casita is as great as it is in pic's sent.
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Old 05-25-2008, 03:26 PM   #8
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Trailer: 17 ft Casita Liberty Deluxe
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I'm planning on purchasing a 03 17ft casita 400 miles from home if all goes well. my TV is a gmc sierra 5.3L. Do I need to get a brake controller to tow the casita home? What is the best way on checking if the refrig (3way) works well. (Should I ask seller to run the refrig on propane overnight prior to my inspection) .-Thanks
Any other tips I sholud look for/ ask sellers in purchasing a 03 casita would greatly be appreciated.
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Old 05-25-2008, 05:12 PM   #9
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Any other tips I sholud look for/ ask sellers in purchasing a 03 casita would greatly be appreciated.
Yes, things on this list from the left Nav bar: Buyers Check List
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Old 05-29-2008, 12:21 AM   #10
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Yes, things on this list from the left Nav bar: Buyers Check List
We brought home our egg safely. Thanks for the tips and this forum.
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