Pacific Coachworks-Econ RV Exposed: Leak Risks, Axle Wear, Costly Service Delays Revealed

(Serious Concern)

Water intrusion is among the most expensive and damaging RV issues. Owner reports across forums and general reviews of the Pacific Coachworks Econ repeatedly describe roof-sealant gaps, poorly sealed roof penetrations (vents, antennas), and wall seams failing prematurely. Water infiltration can lead to soft subfloors, swollen cabinetry, mold, and delamination of sidewalls—repairs that can exceed the trailer’s value, especially on older, lower-cost units.

• Search aggregated owner accounts: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Water Leaks
• Video walk-throughs and leak tests: YouTube search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Leaks
• Forums with DIY sealant fixes and rot repairs: Good Sam Forum: Pacific Coachworks Econ Water Damage

Because many Econs are now mid-2010s units, sealants and roof membranes are past their initial life if not properly maintained. An inspector should perform a moisture meter sweep around all corners, roof-to-wall joints, windows, marker lights, and slide (if equipped).

(Serious Concern)

Lightweight trailers walk a fine line between weight savings and structural durability. Owner complaints involving the Econ include uneven or rapid tire wear, suspected axle misalignment, and worn suspension components (shackles, bushings) earlier than expected. Excessive tire wear is not only costly but a safety risk, increasing the likelihood of blowouts. Some owners also report surface rust and thin undercarriage coatings, which can accelerate corrosion if not addressed.

• Compare experiences here: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Axle Problems
• Reddit owner threads on tire issues: Reddit r/rvs: Pacific Coachworks Econ Tire Wear
• DIY fixes for suspension play and wet bolts: Good Sam: Pacific Coachworks Econ Suspension Issues

Insist on an underbody inspection, measure tire tread across the face for feathering, and consider a post-purchase alignment check at a specialty trailer shop if tread wear appears uneven.

(Moderate Concern)

Not every Econ has a slide, but for those that do, owners have described slide boxes out of square, seals tearing, or mechanisms out of adjustment—issues that can lead to leaks or binding. Entry doors and storage compartments are another recurring complaint area, with reports of misalignment, poor latching, and water dripping past seals in heavy rain or while towing.

• See collective reports: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Slide Out Problems
• Forum threads with adjustment tips: RVForum.net (search “Pacific Coachworks Econ Slide Problems”)

Open, close, and water-test slides/doors before purchase. Look for daylight at seals, and inspect sill plates and floor edges for moisture staining.

(Serious Concern)

Owner discussions mention loose 12V connections, inconsistent converter output, and intermittent short circuits triggering fuses. While some issues are component-level failures common across many brands, patterns of loose crimp connectors and untidy wiring harnesses can elevate the risk of outages or, in extreme cases, overheating.

• Broader complaint patterns: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Electrical Problems
• Video demos of troubleshooting: YouTube search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Electrical Issues
• Reddit how-tos from owners: Reddit r/RVLiving: Pacific Coachworks Econ Electrical Problems

An inspector should pull distribution panel covers, test converter/charger output, check battery cabling and grounds, and verify GFCI and smoke/CO/LP detectors. Look for poorly supported wiring under the frame and behind the converter panel.

(Serious Concern)

LP gas leaks are a safety-critical concern. Owner posts describe leaks at pigtail connections, regulators failing, and stoves or furnaces not lighting consistently. While individual components can fail on any RV, reports suggest the need for careful leak checks, proper appliance venting, and confirmation that the LP detector is functional and in-date.

• Owner experiences and fixes: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Propane Leaks
• Recall search by model: NHTSA recalls: Pacific Coachworks Econ

Request a pressure drop test on the propane system and documentation for any replaced regulators or hoses. Confirm proper exhaust paths for furnace and water heater and that no soot marks indicate incomplete combustion.

(Moderate Concern)

Frequent owner gripes involve leaks at PEX fittings, water pump vibration or cavitation, poorly supported freshwater tanks, and chronically inaccurate tank sensors. Some Econ owners report black tank odors due to vent issues or poor seal at the toilet flange.

• Community troubleshooting threads: Good Sam Community: Pacific Coachworks Econ Plumbing Problems
• Aggregated reviews: RVInsider search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Problems

Inspect for moisture around pump/fittings, run pumps and faucets to pressurize lines, and have the inspector check tank hangers and frame mounts. Ask for a black tank flush test and confirm proper venting.

(Moderate Concern)

Reports of cabinet doors loosening, staples backing out of trim, peeling veneer, and soft spots in floor areas near high-traffic zones appear frequently in Econ owner discussions. Upholstery and foam breakdown on budget seating are also common complaints with older units.

• Search owner photo evidence: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Interior Quality Issues
• Forum DIY reinforcement threads: RVForums.com (search site for “Econ interior issues”)

Bring a flashlight and inspect cabinet joins, drawer slides, and laminate edges. Press around the bathroom and entry for floor softness. Budget time and money to resecure hardware and trim if buying used.

(Moderate Concern)

Owners frequently mention undersized air conditioners struggling in heat, intermittent furnace ignition, and refrigerators that underperform in hot weather or when not perfectly leveled. While much of this is common to lightweight travel trailers, careful pre-purchase testing is prudent.

• Review real-world performance: YouTube search: Pacific Coachworks Econ AC Problems
• Check for recall/service advisories: NHTSA recalls by model

Run the A/C for at least 30 minutes during inspection; measure temperature drop at vents. Test the furnace multiple cycles and verify fridge temps with a thermometer.

(Serious Concern)

Consumer narratives around the Pacific Coachworks Econ frequently cite frustration with warranty approvals, dealer scheduling, and parts availability. Although this is a widespread issue in the RV industry, multiple reports say communication lapses can leave owners without clear timelines—resulting in canceled trips and storage or loan costs while the trailer sits in the shop.

• Search general complaints: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Warranty Complaints
• Read BBB files and brand feedback: BBB search: Pacific Coachworks Econ
• Scan consumer reviews: RVInsider: Pacific Coachworks Econ Problems
• Owner complaint aggregators: Visit PissedConsumer and search for “Pacific Coachworks Econ.”

To mitigate this risk, negotiate written terms for repair timelines, loaner options (rare but worth asking), and any dealer-added warranty promises before you sign. Keep meticulous records of all communications.

(Serious Concern)

Any buyer should check open recalls by VIN prior to purchase and again at delivery. Recalls can involve propane components, axle/suspension issues, and appliance safety defects—any of which can pose immediate safety hazards. Because the Pacific Coachworks Econ spans multiple years, you should verify recall status for your specific VIN and component brands installed in your unit.

• Start here: NHTSA recall search: Pacific Coachworks Econ
• Search discussion and owner notices: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Recall

Confirm with the seller that all recall work has been performed and documented with receipts. If the dealer is processing recall work, hold final payment until the recall is completed and verified.

(Serious Concern)

Consumer complaints involving workmanship, warranty denials, or prolonged repair delays may implicate consumer protection and warranty laws. Key points to understand:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (U.S.): Requires clear written warranties and prohibits certain deceptive warranty practices. If the manufacturer or dealer fails to honor a written warranty, you may have federal remedies.
• State Lemon Laws: RV coverage varies widely. Some states cover only the motorized portion of RVs; others include trailers. California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act may provide strong protections if the Econ was purchased or serviced in California and qualifies under the statute.
• Implied Warranties/UCC: Even if an express warranty has lapsed, implied warranties of merchantability may apply unless properly disclaimed, depending on your state.
• Safety reporting: Serious safety defects should be reported to NHTSA, particularly for brakes, axles, propane, and fire risks. See: NHTSA: Pacific Coachworks Econ.
• FTC and State AG: If you believe a dealer’s advertising or business practices were deceptive, consider filing with the Federal Trade Commission and your State Attorney General.

Document everything: dates, emails, texts, work orders, and inspection reports. If repair timelines stretch unreasonably or safety issues are left unresolved, consult an attorney familiar with RV consumer law in your state.

(Serious Concern)

From our analysis of public owner feedback and general RV market patterns, the most consequential risks tied to the Pacific Coachworks Econ involve water intrusion, axle/tire wear, and propane/electrical reliability. These aren’t merely inconveniences:

• Safety hazards: LP leaks or electrical faults can lead to fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Axle misalignment and tire failures risk roadside breakdowns or accidents.
• Health concerns: Water leaks can create mold or hidden rot, undermining structural integrity and indoor air quality.
• Financial exposure: Major structural repairs, delamination fixes, or replacement of key appliances can exceed a used Econ’s purchase price. Prolonged service delays can add storage costs and cause lost trips.
• Resale hit: A visible history of leaks or major repairs depresses resale value and can make the unit difficult to finance or insure.

Mitigation requires a rigorous inspection, immediate sealant maintenance, undercarriage assessment, and confirmation of recall compliance. If any of these areas show red flags, negotiate aggressively or walk away.

(Moderate Concern)

Across Google reviews and forums (see searches below), themes include early ownership frustration with punch-list items, “new-to-me” used-unit surprises after rainstorms, and delays getting dealer attention post-sale. Buyers who skipped independent inspections are more likely to describe discovering soft floors, uneven tire wear, or electrical gremlins after camping once or twice—issues that were likely present but not detected pre-purchase.

• Aggregate consumer narratives: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Reviews
• Complaint discussions and 1-star experiences: Google search: Pacific Coachworks Econ Complaints

If any of this mirrors your experience, will you tell future shoppers what to look for?