Beaver Motorhome Problems: Solutions & Recommendations

Beaver motorhome problems aren’t significant because these issues can happen even to the industry’s leading brands. Almost every vehicle experiences water damage, electrical problems, and age-related concerns.

Although Beaver has not produced a single unit since 2009, you might still want to know the common issues plaguing these venerable motorhomes, especially second-hand ones. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect.

Common Beaver Motorhome Issues and Solutions

Are Beaver motorhomes good? The short answer is yes. Beaver is one of the most respected motorhome brands since its establishment in 1968.

Although the company folded in the late 1990s, Beaver remains an excellent choice among aspiring RV owners who want a reliable motorhome for weekend adventures.

Beaver motorhome issues aren’t brand-exclusive. However, since Navistar International no longer manufactures these RVs, second-hand units might have several issues potential buyers will want to know.

1. Leaks

Water and moisture ingress are common in many RV brands, including Beaver.

Beaver’s leaky issues center on the front section and driver-side window. The seams between the wall and roof can also rust, letting water in when it rains.

Plumbing fixtures can also deteriorate over time, especially the gray water system.

Water damage can be a real concern, ruining the Beaver’s luxurious wooden interiors and lowering its value.

The solution:

• Inspect the seals, especially around the windows and other openings. Replace the weatherstripping if necessary.
• Assess all pipes and note cracks, holes, and other signs of deterioration. Remove these problematic fixtures and replace them with new, sturdier ones.
• Apply waterproofing over replaced fixtures to prevent future leaks.

2. Faulty Electronics or Inconsistent Electrical Function

Some Beaver motorhome owners complain of issues with the vehicle’s electronics.

For example, the fuel tank or propane gas level gauge might return inaccurate readings. The inverter also functions erratically, especially on 1998 Beaver models.

The electrical outlets can also perform inconsistently.

The solution

• Check the RV batteries for the correct charge level, and recharge if necessary.
• Inspect the wires for breaks, disconnections, and signs of deterioration.
• Bring your motorhome to a Beaver service center or a licensed RV electrician to diagnose and fix the problem.

3. Cracked Windshield

Beaver motorhomes’ reliable powertrains allow owners to drive them over hills and uneven terrain with ease.

Unfortunately, temperature variances can make the windshield brittle, forming tiny cracks. Sometimes, pebbles, small rocks, and other projectiles can hit the glass.

A cracked windshield is a safety hazard. You won’t have a clear look of the road with it.

The solution

• Assess the crack and see if a replacement is necessary.
• Check local temperatures to avoid subjecting the Beaver to sudden temperature changes. Parking it indoors can also help mitigate the problem.

4. Battery Drain

Batteries don’t last a lifetime. So, battery drain is an issue of all mechanical objects, including Beaver motorhomes.

Failure to unplug the power cells when storing or not using the motorhome is the most likely culprit.

The solution

• Replace the battery with a new, higher-capacity unit.
• Disconnect battery terminals after each trip.
• Connect a trickle charger or tender to the battery when the latter is not in use (especially during winter).

5. Tire Blowout

A fully-loaded Beaver Patriot motorhome can weigh nearly 30,000 pounds, which the tires must accommodate.

And when you drive the motorhome over rocky, bumpy, and uneven roads, tire health can take a hit and burst.

The solution

• Plan your trip carefully to avoid driving on rough roads.
• Inspect the tires before, during (on stops), and after each trip.
• Ensure the correct tire pressure.
• Install a tire pressure monitoring system.
• Inspect the spare tires for optimum condition.

What Do Users Think of Beaver Motorhome?

Here are a few Beaver motorhome reviews you’ll want to read.

Conclusion

Beaver motorhome problems aren’t exclusive to the brand. Hence, aspiring buyers of second-hand Beaver units should not worry too much. The good news is most concerns are minor, nothing mechanical.

However, if you want to be sure about your purchase, we recommend bringing a friend knowledgeable about RVs’ unique offerings. A mechanic can also help.

Alternatively, connecting with existing owners should enlighten you on the merits of owning even a second-hand motorhome.