[wahoonc]

Originally Posted by TomR

Thanks Aaron, Beth, Ron and Jim...starting to make some sense.

I read Stingray82 posts and saw he spent about $17,500 for his renovation...did that include the "fix" for the sag/separation? Was there a separate price/bill for the "fix"?

I don't recall if his had the rear end issues or not. That price included pretty much a complete tear down and rebuild.

IF you could quantilfy the cost to have fixed by an AS repair center (qualified as having done it before?)...you could price that into your offer...as an example on the '78 31' Sovereign Rear Bath I am looking at.

I have heard of prices in the $1500-2000 range. But can't guarantee those numbers. Most of us do our own work.

I wonder if anyone has asked AS to document the model and year info re: the switch from 4" to 5" frames. It seems to me as a current "wanabe" that it would seem to make sense to start with the 5" frame and avoid/minimize? the problem completely.

Seriously doubt it is going to happen. They supposedly don't even have proper production numbers, and like many manufacturers have undergone multiple ownership(s), fires, records loss, etc. And every now and again, someone will come up with an odd custom model, contact Airstream with the VIN/Serial number and they can't figure it out. They don't have the records.

Is the fix a good one that actually solves the problem?...there was some talk of it just taking care of it for awhile?

It solves the problem, BUT the owner has to take some initiative and take proper care of the trailer; keep the caulking maintained to avoid leaks, keep the running gear balanced, etc. One interesting concept are the Centramatic wheel balancers. A few people on the board are using them, apparently with great sucess. I know there are some fit and clearance issues based on the various years and wheel combinations. We have a sets on the steer axles of a couple of gravel trucks and they greatly decreased the tire wear. I plan on putting a set on my F350 before the year is out.

Thanks again...this is the type of info that is great to have on this site...if I become an owner I owuld enjoy "giving back"...at this point I am only listening and learning...Tom R in Two Harbors...Frost tonight!

Where is Two Harbors in relation to say New Brighton? I am going to be up there next weekend for a small bicycle gathering. Might need to pack the warm woolies...my southern blood is getting thin.

Aaron