Heads up if you want an Argosy

Gen Disarray · 03-11-2006, 11:52 AM

In todays Southern Illinoisan there is a classified that reads "ARGOSY 1977, 28 ft., $1500. 618 687-3676 or 924-0298"

Disclaimer:
I know absolutely nothing more about this coach than what I saw. I thought it might be a good deal for someone so I am tossing it out here (I hope this is not inappropriate). I am in no way involved with the trailer or owner, in fact I dont know who owns it or exactly where it is for that matter.

Martha N · 03-11-2006, 12:21 PM

I just called about this ad this morning. We have been wanting to get a camper, but are finding the costs prohibitive for someone just starting out. What do you think about buying an Argosy and fixing it up?

Gen Disarray · 03-11-2006, 12:27 PM

Hi neighbor! and welcome to the forums. I think getting an older coach and spiffin it up is a fantastic idea (but then again that is exactly what I did

). Are you going to have a look at this one?

Martha N · 03-11-2006, 01:04 PM

I might run by and take a look at it if the weather will cooperate. I'm off Monday, so that may be my chance. I'm just not sure if our level of ability on stuff like this is up to par. I guess we'd learn as we went along. For $1500, it seems, you really can't lose unless it's in really bad shape.

**wahoonc** · 03-11-2006, 01:44 PM

Martha,
It would have to be a pile of molten metal before I wouldn't pay $1500

but then again...The majority of the skills required to work on/rebuild and Argy/Airstream are for the most part pretty basic and easily learned. The key is to prioritize the projects and do them in a consecutive manner. (and needless to say I didn't follow my own advice

) If the damage is severe enough you will get into welding and metal fabrication work, but even if you spend $10K on it you will still be money ahead, considering that the least expensive of the current Airstream line up is around $25k, and they don't even make Argys anymore

Aaron

Martha N · 03-11-2006, 10:56 PM

Thank you for your encouraging words and good advice. We'll probably go take a look at it but, correct me if I'm wrong, what I've read thus far leads me to believe that refurbishing vintage trailers can be adictive. I hope to continue to stay in touch.

funchucky1 · 03-11-2006, 11:16 PM

I spoke at length with the seller. He's NO Airstream pro, but he sounds like a nice enough guy.
He says it really needs tires....and although it has the original furnace (condition unknown), a second one's been added.
He said the fridge is there, he believes it works; the water heater is there, he has no idea if it works; the a/c works but not too cold; bathroom is all intact.
He had a hard time explaining the layout, but it is a rear bath, front gaucho (no folding table he could find), and what he repeatedly called a "child's bed" curbisde, ahead of the bath (not twins, though). I tried to elicit more, but he explained that there are many, many cabinets and closets....I think vivid descriptions are not his strong point.
He said the exterior is "original cream-colored paint," and that he thinks it has a battery.
I repeat that this is his verbal description, not mine, firsthand.

Sounds like it needs some work, but as long as the frame is solid, it'd be worth $1500 easily. He got it from his friend's father (fairly recently), but he has discovered that his 6cyl truck with high mileage doesn't tow very well.

Oh yes, he said it has a new, full awning.

He also said he has a couple of people looking at it sunday morning...
If one of those people is here, don't forget photos!

-Chuck

**wahoonc** · 03-12-2006, 06:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Martha N

Thank you for your encouraging words and good advice. We'll probably go take a look at it but, correct me if I'm wrong, what I've read thus far leads me to believe that refurbishing vintage trailers can be adictive. I hope to continue to stay in touch.

ADICTIVE I'm not addicted, really, I can stop anytime I want....NOT

Martha, there is something about vintage Aluminum that gets under the skin or in the blood. Either you have it or you don't, I suspect most of us on this board do. There have been people that have come here, asked a few questions, looked at few vintage trailers and have never been heard from again. Then there are several here who own more than one trailer or are on there second, third or whatever restoration/rebuild.

Have fun looking, let us know what you find and make sure to take pictures WE LOVE PICTURES!!

Aaron

**CanoeStream** · 03-12-2006, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by funchucky1

He says .... although it has the original furnace (condition unknown), a second one's been added.

I'd guess the 2nd furnace is a space heater of some sort. But anybody considering a salvage on the original furnace this age should search the forums on: Suburban furnace recall. We don't want you waking up dead! Budgeting a new furnace should be part of the plan.

Gen Disarray · 03-12-2006, 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Martha N

I might run by and take a look at it if the weather will cooperate. I'm off Monday, so that may be my chance. I'm just not sure if our level of ability on stuff like this is up to par. I guess we'd learn as we went along. For $1500, it seems, you really can't lose unless it's in really bad shape.

Keep me posted on how it goes, and dont forget I am in the area and will give you a hand if I can (disclaimer: I am in the finial weeks of a disertation so this.will be hit or miss)/