garage vs specialty maintenance

hippieP · 12-29-2011, 12:16 PM

Is there a large difference in price when you need to have a trailer or popup fixed? I was always told to find a specialty shop rather than taking the chance that a local garage would not either have the correct parts (get them at decent prices) or end up charging and arm and a leg. Where do you take yours to? I ask since its something we will really need to consider before we invest in one, just to be on the safe side.

Lamebeaver · 12-29-2011, 03:22 PM

If you're talking about packing the wheel bearings, brakes, etc. I would feel just fine taking it to a regular garage (assuming you trust your mechanic).

If it has something to do with the intermal mechanism I'd either fix it myself of go to a trailer place.

ppine · 12-30-2011, 10:35 AM

I have had good luck with the portable repair companies run by one person that come to your property. Find some one that only works on RVs.

Ilovelife · 12-30-2011, 01:43 PM

I have a friend who has done this sort of work for years. We do the whole back yard mechanics thing and it has worked well for us. On the rare occasion I do need help I will get a specialist. Like LB said, there are some simple things that can be done by a regular garage cheaper.

ejdixon · 01-02-2012, 09:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lamebeaver

If you're talking about packing the wheel bearings, brakes, etc. I would feel just fine taking it to a regular garage (assuming you trust your mechanic).

If it has something to do with the intermal mechanism I'd either fix it myself of go to a trailer place.

I agree with Lamebeaver. If the problem is pretty general or if it's just the mechanical maintenance, you can just have it done in a garage. I know that some RV owners even do these on their own. But when it comes to anything to do with the electrical stuff or the different internal components, best to get it done by a specialist. RVs in general vary not just in size, but also the internal components and features that they have. Going to a specialist may be a bit more expensive at first, but at least you're sure that the problem is fixed the first time.

**CozInCowtown** · 01-02-2012, 10:00 PM

There is nothing magical about a popup trailer, any handyman should be able to fix anything on it with the possible exception of replacing the canvas. That might require a trip to the camper guys.
What do you need fixed?
DC

outwest · 01-03-2012, 09:44 AM

My sister ended up taking a popup to a store downtown that dealt only with popups, a mom and pop shop. Something was weird with the pushup portion as it kept getting stuck and the guy ended up ordering a special part for it. In the end it was cheaper than a normal garage would have charged. Maybe it depends on the trailer and the issue?