Greetings tarnished!
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Originally Posted by tarnished
I'm happy to report the purchase of a '79 Minuet 7.3 in VG condition. Just towed it back from Rockport TX. 1600 uneventful miles. No swaybar and no load levelling hitch. TV is an '07 T4runr 6cyl.
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If you thought that the coach towed well just using a ball hitch, you will really be impressed by the stability with a weight distributing hitch such as the Reese Dual Cam that incorporates sway control. Even when towing my 6.0 Metre Minuet with my Suburban, I utilize the Reese Dual Cam and it really does make a difference particularly when encountering the unexpected strong cross winds, thunderstorms, etc.
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Originally Posted by tarnished
The interior is excellent. The only change is the fridge. It has the PW floor. There is a small area of rot at the corner of the door. A few minor problems easilly repaired. Drains on both waste tanks aren't operating and that's the first repair.
Also, why is the carpet on so many units in such deplorable condition? Is it that they are going to be sold so no one cares? My last trailer was a 2007 Casita bought in 2009 and that carpet, original short shag believe it or not, was terrible. Got home last night at 8:40pm and tore out the carpet about 10am today.
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I think that there are a number of factors that work to shorten the life of carpeting installed in an RV. The constant temperature changes, particularly in humid climates, can cause the carpet fibers to live in a moist environment where dirt becomes more deeply imbedded . . . and in extreme circumstances mold/mildew can factor in as well. Also, in the case of our Argosy coaches, they were designed as Airstream's entry into the mid-priced field and I suspect that the grade of carpeting reflected this target audience. When we consider our Vintage coaches in "as found" condition the carpeting often didn't receive the care that it would have received in a home (vacuuming/regular cleaning shampoo/steam-clean) and if it is a replacement it was likely either purchased as a remnant or possibly was rescued when new carpet was installed in the home. I know that my Minuet had its original Orange shage when I acquired it in 2004, but my Overlander had replacement indoor/outdoor carpeting in a disgusting dirt brown color. I suspect that the carpeting is one of the first things to go when most Airstreamers bring home a Vintage coach that they are planning to refurbish.
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Originally Posted by tarnished
The trailer came with the original manuals for all the appliances and the Argosy factory manuel.
If anyone needs info I'll be happy to make copies and forward.
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The factory manuals are always a plus as some of the appliance and accessory manuals can be very difficult to find.
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Originally Posted by tarnished
The exterior is VG with no damage. Some bumps and bruises, the original details are fading.
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One of the big advantes of the Argosy coaches is that we have somewhat more latitude when repairing skin blemishes due to the coach's painted exterior.
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Originally Posted by tarnished
Does anyone know where to get the plastic insert for the waist molding??
Thank you all for the information and encouragement received to date. In the future I will reciprocate as the renewal process begins.
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Rubrail and beltline molding inserts are still available from Airstream in three colors . . . blue, orange, and black. I don't believe that the green insert molding is being reproduced. There were a number of years when the orange was not available, but Airstream began offering as a replacement part several years ago. The insert material isn't cheap, but it does last for a very long time when properly installed.
Good luck with your coach! I am sure that your Minuet will give you many years of enjoyment!
Kevin
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