Questions about buying a used '99 Safari

cljackson · 01-30-2003, 01:02 PM

Hi Everyone

I am proud and excited to say that we arranged to pick up our "new" (1999) 26-ft Safari A/S on Saturday. It was owned previously by a couple who used it a couple of times and then, sadly, the gentleman passed away. The family did not have the heart to part with or use it further and has had it stored under cover for the past year or so.

It still has new-trailer smell, is very clean, and only needs an outside bath.

However, I am concerned about the wheel bearings and brakes.

What is your advice on having them checked at a qualified RV mechanic?

Are there other electrical, mechanical, or structural components I should be concerned with as we pick it up?

Thanks in advance for the help.

Carl and Cheryl Jackson
Montgomery, TX

**jcanavera** · 01-31-2003, 09:25 AM

Cheryl,

Drop on down and follow this site regarding 1999 Safari's and also look at the 2001 site. You will see lots of little tips and information regarding the model you are purchasing.

I'm pretty sure your model does not have front stabilizer jacks, so it will not be as stable as the newer models. Have your local dealer replace the rear jacks and add front jacks with the model currently used on the Safari's today. It will make a big difference.

If you decided to have the wheel bearings repacked by someone other than an Airstream dealer, be sure they know the points to place their floor jacks. Supposedly these places are marked on the underbelly. If they place their jack in other places they can damage the axle assembly or other components.

Jack

JaceBeck · 01-31-2003, 01:18 PM

Congratulations on your purchase!

I have a 1999 Safari 25C and would be happy to answer any questions that you have. Regarding the wheels and bearings, you should be ok as these trailers are generally used for weekends and maybe a summer trip or two. Look at the rock guards on the front and if they are not badly dented up by small stones, you likely don't have many miles on it.

It's always a good practice to locate a goo RV mechanic and have they give it a good look to ensure that the running gear and systems are operating properly.
Jace

cljackson · 01-31-2003, 10:33 PM

Hi Jace,

Thanks for the advice. We've been told that the owners only took 2 trips in it, and so far as we can tell by just looking at it all it needs is a bath and a good home. Carl is having the wheel bearings re-packed before we pick it up (tomorrow), then we'll camp in it this weekend and tow it home.

Take care,
Cheryl & Carl