New owners of a 1982 34' Limited

[Jenniflow]

Hey folks,
I notice there's a "limited" amount of activity in this area, but I thought I'd add us to the list of owners of Limited trailers. We're just about to move it onsite and I'm hoping to post some pics soon.

We also have a 1986 345 AS MH, so we're not newbies, but I'm wondering what anyone here has noticed of things to be especially alert for in the systems that might need attention. Does this original plumbing and electric hold up reasonably well?

Ours was garaged most of the time and pulled out for use on the same spot ever since it was bought new in 1982. It looks like the furnishings and skin are in very good shape, but we weren't able to test the systems thoroughly.

Thanks!

[Jenniflow]

Pics. Limited bandwidth. Let's see what we can do:


I guess that's it for today!

[BradB]

Looks exactly the same as ours!

I replaced the plumbing with pex as the originally started leaking. Other than that and dealing with leaks, I've not had to do much.

[Jenniflow]

Hey, well that's more than I've done so far. Right now, I'm trying to figure out the best way to protect it over the Baja summer. If it survives hurricane season, I'm all set to do some delving.

[Aage]

Welcome to Airforums!

Leaks, axles, appliances.

Leaks, to make sure it can't catch a fatal wet spot

Axles, if you want to actually travel in it without it shaking itself to bits

The appliances, so that you can eat, stay clean, comfortable, and warm or cool.

Then do a m-a-j-o-r interior cleanup, and re-upholster.

You'll have a trailer that is a light and sure-footed pull, with lots of room and comfort.

I'm jealous!

[andreasduess]

We've got a 1984 34' International, very similar look, except for the sofa layout - we've only got one across the back. Love the 34' models.

[Jenniflow]

Thanks Aage, good advice. I'm going to wash it a lot in the next two days and see if I can scare up any leaks there may be. It's not going anywhere yet so the axles can wait, and we haven't even tested all the appliances yet, so I'm hoping for some nice surprises but I won't be crushed if I don't get any.

[Jenniflow]

Yes, Andresduess, I really like that front L-shaped lounge. It's attractive, it's comfortable, and it's versatile. It really feels like you can comfortably squeeze quite a few people in there, among the sofas, the chair, and even the dinette, and have a conversation. I probably won't do much to change that configuration, but probably will reupholster.

[m.hony]

It actually looks OK except for the upholstery on the couch and "love seat".
I would be tempted to leave it if it is in good condition to keep it original- it is pretty ugly, though. What were they thinking? I know it was the 80's, but they hadn't quite left the 70's behind...
I have been in a '95 model with the same layout in the "country blue" of the time period. It felt airy and spacious.

[Jenniflow]

Ys, it definitely has that 1970s hangover feel. I like to challenge myself, though, to think of what new colors or textures around it could make the original look great. And sometimes I just throw up my hands and chuck it.

[Landshark]

Hi, we have an '86 34' Limited and we just love the space and convenience of it. The PO (he was the original owner, too) apparently reupholstered from the pinkish mauve to medium blue--we are grateful! Although it still has the pinkish faux marble Formica on countertops, dinette table, bath counter, and night stands.

We were shaking the interior to pieces on the road so replaced the axles last summer and haven't really made any trips since long enough to test, but will be on the road soon for the Vintage Trailer Academy, so we'll know then!

We lived in it for 9 mos winter of 2012-2013, and it was absolutely great: plenty of space for us to be together, entertain, or have some separate space when needed. Also lots of space--sorta--when our 6mo old Doberman got the "runs," as we called it when he would race over and over from one end of the trailer to the other, literally bouncing off the couch at the front end and nightstand at the other. And the interior held up perfectly to this canine abuse!

We have no complaints about this unit and lots of praise. We were a little worried about its length after towing only 31' and 23' A/Ss, but it is just as easy as they were, just have to remember those wide turns! In fact, because it is so spacious, my husband always wants to take it when we hit the road instead of one of the smaller ones.

I think you will thoroughly enjoy it. Happy trails, and see you down the road!

Vivian

[Jenniflow]

Haha! Go, hound, go! That's great. So far, no trips planned, but this does get me thinking ...

[andreasduess]

Agreed with landshark. The 34' models are special. Tow like a dream, back up gently and easily, so much space... the list goes on and on. I love that we have proper wardrobes, a usable galley, a spacious bathroom and the trailer still only weighs 6250lbs.

[Jenniflow]

6250? Mine says GVWR 9000! Could it be that different?

GAWR: All axles 2800 lbs.

7.00-15 tires and 15 x 6 rims.

[Landshark]

I was thinking ours came in at 7800 lbs plus-or-minus according to our book--could yours really be 6250??

"Go hound go!" --don't encourage him!

Vivian

[rostam]

Originally Posted by Jenniflow

6250? Mine says GVWR 9000! Could it be that different?

GAWR: All axles 2800 lbs.

7.00-15 tires and 15 x 6 rims.

Andy has a 1984 model. 1983/1984 models are very light. 6250# is the factory weight though -- it does not include options or accessories. The actual dry weight (with awning/AC/etc) is usually 200# to 500# more than the factory weight. I would not be surprised if Andy's camper weigh 6750# dry.

[andreasduess]

When we had her on the scales after purchase, she came in at 6340lbs dry. We removed the heavy microwave (don't even use one at home) and the old tube TV. Ready to camp she is around 7200lbs, give or take.

[Andrew T]

The 1984 has aluminum framed cabinetry and flat panel doors. The 86 has hardwood framed cabinets and raised panel hardwood doors so it is considerably heavier.

34's carry very little weight per axle. The tires can run quite low pressure and the axles rarely need replacing. Check your suspension travel before changing axles.

[Aage]

Originally Posted by Andrew T

34s carry very little weight per axle. The tires can run quite low pressure and the axles rarely need replacing. Check your suspension travel before changing axles.

What's the simplest way to check suspension travel, Andy?

[andreasduess]

We're actually just about to add some weight. Andy is figuring out if the space for the old microwave could accommodate a dishwasher.