Am I asking for problems buying a 1989 SMB?

[bisonthecruiser]

If we've learned anything in the time we've had our van, it's even the best of promises from a seller typically fall flat. That plus our ignorance on upkeep (basic maintenance, etc.) of leaking windows, etc. has turned this into a hobby at best, an added job at worst.

I'd only recommend this van if you have a ton of know how or a desire to work on your own vehicle OR a lot of money set aside to get it workable. Ray is 100% right. You'll likely spend 50% of their asking price to get it where you want it.

EDIT: You'd be burning money converting this to 4WD, even if doing it yourself. Keep a van 2wd unless you need 4wd. This van would likely go wherever a sedan could. At the end of the day, your driving will likely make the difference here.

[Grampswrx]

I will eho the rest and say that you should spend the next 6 months setting aside $1500 a month and pretending that is going to fixing issues that you would be fixing on that van. At the end of the 6 months, you will have added $9k more to your budget which should get you into a nice, modern van.

[86Scotty]

RVTrader says listing has been removed. OP, did you buy it?

[vintageracer]

I know the listing has been removed however here is my answer to the OP's original question:

"Am I asking for problems buying a 1989 SMB?"

YES!

Some of the worst old vehicles I have owned (I have owned many and still own many) are OLD LOW MILEAGE vehicles.

Now add the fact with this Sportsmobile you will have "This Old House" sitting inside "This Old Van". Double the problems and Double the repair costs.

FREE might not be a good deal!

[vintageracer]

Originally Posted by Grampswrx

I will eho the rest and say that you should spend the next 6 months setting aside $1500 a month and pretending that is going to fixing issues that you would be fixing on that van. At the end of the 6 months, you will have added $9k more to your budget which should get you into a nice, modern van.

To add to this SOUND ADVICE:

IF you cannot afford to save $1500/month for 6 months then try to save $1000/month for 9 months or $500/month for 18 months before any RV purchase.

IF you can't afford to save that $500/month you need to find another DREAM as this SPORTSMOBILE DREAM will turn into a NIGHTMARE very quickly when you are BROKE!