I am looking at campers and there seems to be 3 groups. Walmart brand, Lance, and Bigfoot/Northern Lite. I would love to have Bigfoot or Northern Lite but it's out of my budget. On the this forum Lance seems to be a very popular brand. With my budget ($4,000-$6,000) am looking at mid 90s to early 2000 models. How are they for problems. ie leaks, rot etc...? Are there things to look for when checking out a used camper? I have a Dodge 3500 SRW diesel with an 8' box. Will most of the models fit it?

Thanks
Doug

I've owned a 1990 Lance LC980 for a little less than a year. It's in great shape. Of course the previous owners took very good care of it, and there is always something that needs to be worked on with a nearly 20 year old camper, but it is holding up great.

Have you checked out Eagle Cap, Arctic Fox, and Host? Eagle Cap and Host might be difficult to find used models in your price range, but I'd think Arctic Fox would be more available.

I have owned a truck camper since 1970. Open Road, Coachman, Fleetwood(Elkhorn) and now Lance. Liked the layout of the Fleetwood best (side entry). The quality of the Lance seems to surpass all the earlier campers I've owned. They have all become larger and heavier than the one before. Same goes for the trucks I've used to haul them. Am now looking at an Artic Fox, will need a heavier truck or a wheel and tire upgrade.
When you go shopping, look for any visible signs of damage, weather related or collission related. Don't be affraid to poke and prod, especially under the "wings" that would be over the truck body. Check for stress cracks,bubbling or bulging, anywhere in the siding or roof, especially by the jacks. These are signs of rot or cracked framing. Look on the inside for signs of leaks, around windows(especially the front one) and seams. don't be bashful about looking behind curtins in cabinets etc. Figure the camper weight plus the people and "stuff" you are going to haul in and on it.(Trucks GVW or Payload???) If the person trying to sell you the camper, objects to close scrutiny, he's got something to hide. Remember, you don't have to buy "that camper", just because it's there in front of you.
Have fun shopping, the right unit for you is out there. Listen to the sellers stories, they will tell you of the fond memories connected with the unit. A hint, if you will,
of things to come. Hope this helps, enjoy and be safe.
John