WTB: 25-28 AS in Great Lakes Region

[johnboy]

We are looking for an Airstream trailer. We are in Wisconsin and would travel to neighboring states, or slightly beyond for right trailer.

Must be structurally sound and ready to drive. Don't mind if it needs some fixups but don't have time for complete rehab.

Don't care about collectibility. From what I've seen used on the net, something from the 70's or 80's will fit the bill.

Budget is loose, depending on units we've seen on the net in faraway states or units that have already sold, I think we're planning on spending anywhere from $5k - $10k.

Can anyone also post a good resource with information on inspecting AS units. Particularly axles & floor sturdiness? Other things to look for? Is there a "bible" of used AS's?

Thanks for the help.
jb in bboo.

[schovan]

Originally Posted by johnboy

We are looking for an Airstream trailer. We are in Wisconsin and would travel to neighboring states, or slightly beyond for right trailer.

Must be structurally sound and ready to drive. Don't mind if it needs some fixups but don't have time for complete rehab.

Don't care about collectibility. From what I've seen used on the net, something from the 70's or 80's will fit the bill.

Budget is loose, depending on units we've seen on the net in faraway states or units that have already sold, I think we're planning on spending anywhere from $5k - $10k.

Can anyone also post a good resource with information on inspecting AS units. Particularly axles & floor sturdiness? Other things to look for? Is there a "bible" of used AS's?

Thanks for the help.
jb in bboo.

We have a 1977 27' Overlander for sale in Green Bay, WI
the Trailer is clean and functional. New tires, bearings, new floor(laminate wood),matresses and upolstery have been updated. if interested my name is Steve 920-265-5513 asking $6000

[GStephens]

This forum has many threads on what to look out for when purchasing a trailer. It also has volunteer members who would be willing to go with you or for you to perhaps to check out a trailer. Do a search on "So you found a trailer three states away." That thread lists the various people willing to help you evaluate a trailer.
GStephens

[overlander64]

Greetings JB!

Welcome to the Forums!

Originally Posted by johnboy

Can anyone also post a good resource with information on inspecting AS units. Particularly axles & floor sturdiness? Other things to look for? Is there a "bible" of used AS's?

Thanks for the help.
jb in bboo.

Two resources that will at least, in part, answer the two questions above are:

Vintage Airstream Price vs. Condition

Airstream Henschen DuraTorque Axle Inspection Data

About the best guideline that I know of in regard to inspecting the floors is to visually inspect the junction of wall with floor around as much of the perimeter of the coach as possible - - a fine probe or awl can help to determine if a suspect area happens to be soft - - most suspect areas would include the floor under and near the bath; the floor under water heater; the floor under and near water tank; the floor directly in front of the entry door; and the floor in the front of the coach directly below the front window.

There really aren't any books that have been published so far as I know that focus upon restoration of RVs whether Airstream or other makes. This Forum is a great source as is the Airstream list on Yahoo (Hunter's List); and for Vintage Airstreams there is the Vintage Airstream Club Discussion List (e-mail based discussion forum). There is a generic book that can assist with the basic functioning of the RV systems that is often recommended for beginning RVers - - RV Repair and Maintenance by Bob Livingston

Good luck with your research and investigation!

Kevin