Jayco Outback Advice

[awbeattie381]

Hi all,

I am hoping to soon join the CT crew as my wife and I have decided to do a 6 month lap of the country in 2014 before we consider having kids.

We spent the afternoon today at the adventure show at Rosehill, looking at Jaycos, Goldstreams and Corromols. We wont buy a new one, but probably a 10-15 year old model (which rules out the basic corromol ones).

The Jayco guy was telling me that they have had outback models since the 80s, but were never any different to the on road models. He couldnt remember exactly when the chassis/suspension/interior were strengthened for the outback models but thought maybe 1997?

Considering I am very keen on doing the Gibb River Road, I will need an offroad model. Does anyone know how far back I could be looking? I dont really want to spend more than about $10k, but could stretch to $15 if its a mint example. Whatever we buy will be a keeper for years, as we intend to continue camping if we decide to have a family.

Also, do these older models have a lesser ball weight than the current crop of camper trailers? My NG V6 Pajero only has a max ball weight of 100kg.

Lastly, we have the option of towing with a 4 cylinder work car for (non 4wd) holidays as we wont have to pay for fuel. I know this question depends on how often you take it away but would it be worth kitting out a work car for this sort of towing if you only keep it for 40k? Am I crazy considering towing with a VW Golf, Holden Cruze or a Nissan Dualis (2wd)?

Andrew

[Stach]

honestly wouldn't go any further back than 2007, this model is much more 'off road' than the others in my opinion.

[albany_nomads]

honestly wouldn't go any further back than 2007, this model is much more 'off road' than the others in my opinion.

Unfortunately you will be hard pressed if no impossible to get a Jayco 2007 model for $10K

[Stach]

Unfortunately you will be hard pressed if no impossible to get a Jayco 2007 model for $10K

Definitely impossible.. another way I guess would be to by an older outback and do mods!

[Signature035]

honestly wouldn't go any further back than 2007, this model is much more 'off road' than the others in my opinion.

Hey Stach,

Why 2007......   The only difference I am aware of, was the change to glass panel sides (which some say are more prone to damage off road)....

PS, We have a 2004, and I know the frame & suspension are exactly the same as my mates 2008

PPS, I would think something around the early 2000's would be a good buy, and fit in that $10 - $15k budget.

[awbeattie381]

Thanks for the replies, I have seen a few come up that are early 2000s for under $15k. I have also seen a few late 90s models that look even better for around 10 or just under, but wasnt sure if they were as solid.

I dont intend on going off road, just dirt roads, but I am hoping to do the Gibb which pretty much means it needs to be strong!

[hammy]

To add to the OP's question, I'm seeking the same advice. 

We're looking at outback / offroad Eagles or Swans from 2000 to 2012. To the untrained eye, the interiors all look the same so I'm inclined to buy on "condition" and not year and maybe save a few dollars by getting an older model

What does interest me though is the changeover years where  there may have been upgrades to the suspension/chassis/strength. 

I'm not after a full, high rise outback on 4wd tyre, but are after better clearance than the onroad models and a strong, galvanised chassis for good carrying capacity. Also a longer drawbar would be a bonus

The tow vehicle is a current model Pajero, but if possible I may use my VS ute for some towing as well (onroad only)

Offroad work would be limited to good to bad gravel roads, but nothing too tight of rough for what's an expensive family vehicle. A badly corrugated gravel road would probably be the biggest test that I'd put this through, although I'm not ruling out some gentle river crossings

Some earlier Outbacks with the light truck tyres seem to be the compromise that may work, but I have no idea on what structural changes are beneficial, and in which model run