Avondale Dart 556/6 looking to buy

Sep 26, 2007
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We are looking to purchase a used Avondale 556/6 as a first van as the layout suits us - Problem is that I have located a 2001 model at a very attractive price but it is at the tip of Scotland (I'm in Nottingham). The current owner is prepared to deliver within the price. I will not part with cash until I have seen the van (COD)but want to know what questions I should be asking the seller so any trip is not wasted. What info do I need to check whether it may be stolen/insurance/finance and are there any weak points to look out for with this type of model
 
Mar 14, 2005
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You really do need to be very wary on this one. Is it a private seller or a dealer? Assuming the former, you have no idea where he is based, so cannot get any idea of whether this is his own caravan he is selling, or just one he intends to steal once he has a buyer!

At the very least, get the CRIS number from him and do an HPI check - this will cost about fifteen pounds, but will tell you if the person selling it is the registered owner, whether it has been reported stolen, has outstanding finance, etc, etc.

Before you hand over any money, it would be wise to do a very thorough inspection (including checking that the number you were given tallies with that etched on the windows). You should also arm yourself with a damp meter and check as thoroughly as you are able to ensure that there are no damp areas. Try to get receipts and other documents proving ownership and make sure there is a CRIS registration certificate.

My honest advice would be to leave this one alone, and wait until you find one that you can at least check properly before committing yourself. I know it may feel as if you will never find another one, but realistically, another will come up soon.
 
Aug 1, 2007
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Go up for a week end and suss it out Better than buying a pig in a poke Then if you like it bring it home with you

Rita
 
Sep 26, 2007
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You really do need to be very wary on this one. Is it a private seller or a dealer? Assuming the former, you have no idea where he is based, so cannot get any idea of whether this is his own caravan he is selling, or just one he intends to steal once he has a buyer!

At the very least, get the CRIS number from him and do an HPI check - this will cost about fifteen pounds, but will tell you if the person selling it is the registered owner, whether it has been reported stolen, has outstanding finance, etc, etc.

Before you hand over any money, it would be wise to do a very thorough inspection (including checking that the number you were given tallies with that etched on the windows). You should also arm yourself with a damp meter and check as thoroughly as you are able to ensure that there are no damp areas. Try to get receipts and other documents proving ownership and make sure there is a CRIS registration certificate.

My honest advice would be to leave this one alone, and wait until you find one that you can at least check properly before committing yourself. I know it may feel as if you will never find another one, but realistically, another will come up soon.
The van was originally advertised on ebay with a number of pictures showing it sited with awning. I intend to invest in the CRIS check and take things step by step - I will not part with cash until such time I am satisfied it is the sale is legitimate. Does damp tend to be a common problem in the Avondale
 

Damian

Moderator
Mar 14, 2005
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With any van purchase right now, be very aware that there are a lot of vans which have been victims of the recent flooding, and may well be insurance write offs due to irrepairable water damage to the structure.
 
May 12, 2006
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If the caravan is in Lerwick it will cost a lot of money to get it to Aberdeen, and then on to you.

Just thought if it was near to Aberdeen I could have had a quick check

Frank
 
Sep 23, 2006
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Andrew,

Some of these vans suffered from hairline cracking to the front and rear panels, mine went in the top corners and were replaced under warranty, no problems after that. Is the Vendor able to email/fax copies of the vans service history, a complete history and a clear damp report could make all the difference in the world. If any of that is lacking, I would definately look nearer to home for one that has good history. They are about I am sure.

Best of luck.
 
Feb 15, 2006
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i have one of these vans a 2005 model but im px'ing it in, it will be forsale with raymond james but it will be when mine comes in which will be between nov - jan.

mine is the dart 556/6 godiva special it has cd multidisk player, alarm, awning light, better upolstry, avondale mat, outside plug and i think it has an outside bbq point.

can i just why do you want this particular van?.

jo-anne
 
Sep 26, 2007
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i have one of these vans a 2005 model but im px'ing it in, it will be forsale with raymond james but it will be when mine comes in which will be between nov - jan.

mine is the dart 556/6 godiva special it has cd multidisk player, alarm, awning light, better upolstry, avondale mat, outside plug and i think it has an outside bbq point.

can i just why do you want this particular van?.

jo-anne
Hi jo-anne

The layout suits us, the weight means we don't have to change the car and they appear to be reasonably well liked.

As the time approaches to swop your van you will have to letus know what you are prepared to px it for - or whether you would benefit from taking cash to your new dealer

a.baguley@ntlworld.com should find us

Andy B
 

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