Advice for propspective boler buyer?

[E Dyck]

Hi, I'm looking to purchase a 13' boler and wondering if there are any certain things to look out for? I don't mind a bit of a fixer upper, but what are the things that affect value the most?

[Doug Mager]

Welcome to the Egg Crate E Dyck!

Primarily one should look for/check for cracks in the frame at the front of the trailer frame just where it ducks down (duck eggs, LOL??) under the front of the body. This/these are a common problem and usually easily repaired with some steel pieces and a good welder....

[Donna D.]

You'll receive some good info from the membership, but be sure to print this out and take it with you. It's a PDF: Buyers Checklist

[james kent]

I like the mods, but isn't that a Perris Pacer and not a Boler?

[Raya]

I would add (not specific to Bolers, but applicable to all) that you should check very carefully for water damage to the inside due to freshwater leaks from above. I looked at a number of trailers before I bought mine, and there were quite a few with moderate to extensive damage due to this problem. I've also read of a fair number of rebuilds by folks here who either bought one of these projects purposely, or else weren't aware of the problem (or thought it was more minor) when they purchased the trailer.

How to check?

1) Smell of must or mold.
2) If there's floor covering, look under it, particularly at the edges (water can run down behind the wall insulation). Many Bolers (mine included) have a fiberglass top floor, but I don't think all do. Check either one.
3) Look up from below.

Another think I look for is whether there has been extensive use of silicone (typically globbed around the windows, belly band, etc.). Silicone doesn't do a great job of curing leaks, but you will have a devil of a time removing it and its contamination. Something to factor into the price, if nothing else.

Check the axle. Many of them need to be replaced, and it's doable, but again, nice to know ahead of time. There are posts on it here you can search out, but basically, when someone bounces around inside the trailer, the axle suspension should move. Also, see if you have at least a fist-width between the top of the tires and the wheelwell.

Raya

[Raya]

Oh, I'm sorry, I missed where you said "what are the things that affect value most."

Here's what I would say:

1) Cleanliness
2) Shiny, pretty exterior
3) Cushions, curtains, decorating
4) Working and tested (by seller, vs. having no idea) appliances
5) Photos and information with the ad
6) Location (i.e. which part of the continent)
7) Motivation and acceptance of reality by seller (well, this doesn't affect value, but it does affect price!)

I would add "bathroom/shower," but that's not usually a factor in a Boler 13.

Raya

[E Dyck]

Thanks for all the replys.

I have just started learning the ins and outs of these unique trailers. I am looking to buy one before next fall so I should have a grasp on making an informed buy by then.

[james kent]

To all who buy a used trailer we suggest that you print off the "Buyers Check List". It's in the column at the left hand side of the page under Tutorials. Take it with you when you look one over.
Good luck!
Jim

[Rick Harmer]

Afternoon.

Got my 73(?) Boler out your way in Aldergrove. Like you, I was doing research and did look at one other in North Van (screamin' red colour!).It was listed for about $4500, got it for less. Pros? New cushions and covers, few leaks (mostly those damned rivets!) icebox (did not want any other kind),clean exterior, hubs kept well greased (and he did them while I was standing there)and frame appeared to be OK. Cons? Interior is dated (who's Boler isn't), furnace was knackered, original Coleman was scary bad state, and door sag.\

I've ditched the furnace and the Coleman (using a small heater from Seabreeze (Cdn Tire), got a new Wedgewood 2-burner from PPL in Texas, saved HUGE dollars over CDN pricing) Replcing the original gas lines, painting the interior. Door sag? Next season, as well as egg removal and frame rustproofing (hey-a guy has only so much money and time!)

Oh, and found the greatest number of local units on Craigslist!! Mine came from there.

Need any other input, there are some real "pros" on this forum that have GREAT insight into Boler mysteries? And, you can always send me an e-mail on the side.