Also in AZ, looking for 31' Airstream

[DanK]

Hello --

I am looking for a ~mid to late 1970s Airstream, 31'. My wife and I plan to live in it for a few months while we build our house, and then, later, to use it as a camp trailer up in the high country.

We are near Apache Junction, AZ, and are willing to travel a bit for a unit that has been treated well.

I'm not sure what configuration or model would be ideal for us, but a rear bath seems like a sensible solution.

If you have something you think I might be interested, please send me a PM. Thanks! Dan.

[drboyd]

I looked at a 31' in Scottsdale a few months ago, but it was suffering from DRS (Dreaded Rear Sag) and wasn't a suitable candidate.

If you're looking for a 31' rear bath, you really need to study up on the rear sag and separation issue before you buy.

There are plenty of Airstreams around here, especially in the East Valley. I wold think you'd find several this winter, when the snowbirds hit.

Don

[TBKP's Overlander]

Thought I saw one in the RV Trader yesterday. Not sure of the condition.

[DanK]

Hello --

I've heard about the Rear Sag before, and perhaps, because of that, we should look for a rear twin with center bath.

Is the rear sag real noticeable? I assume it's because the gray and black water storage is back there and thus the weight is too far back from the wheels -- but do the frames really separate?!!


I've been looking at the archives -- great web site by the way -- and I've found a lot of useful information.

I just haven't looked at many Airstreams yet, so don't have a good feel for what is out there.

Thanks,

Dan.

[drboyd]

I've seen one unit with DRS, and (thanks to all the expertise on this site) I did notice it. On this particular unit, there was a "crink" in the sidewall just ahead of the wheels, and you could fit your finger in between the frame and the body.

Center bath units are relatively rare. However, the word is that aluminum wheels tend to be a little more in balance then the steel wheels, so an aluminum-wheel unit might be a little less likely to sag.

Read up on it here, and you'll be able to spot it....

Don

[GeorgeC]

I too had been warned of the DRS.
This month I purchased a 74 Sovereign, 31 ft w/ rear twins and center bath in good condition.
I had all the mechanicals checked out and now were ready to do the cosmetic stuff----reupholster the couch, new drapes, replace carpet.
We too are building a new house in the No. Georgia mountains and this will provide us with temporary lodging during the construction phase.
The only down side to the center bath is size-----definitely not designed for someone like myself at 6'6''.
Good luck on your search.
GeorgeC

[joel]

I just noticed your post. I have a 31' international with rear bath and center twins. It has a new elec/gas hot water heater,newer AC ,new tires.good condition with a few minor beauty-marks.Every thing works but the range hood fan. 21' patio and 21' window zipdee awnings. Full set of curtains with some minor stains on the front left [ water stains from sweating windows]. Rear floor of the bath has been replaced. All window seals have been redone . This unit has been used for at least one week a month for the 2 years we have owned it. We have pictures available .
If you want to see them our e-mail is

suzyqjoel@aol.com