Japanese Airstreams

**moosetags** · 08-26-2007, 03:56 PM

In the Fall, 2007, issue of AIRSTREAM LIFE, there is a feature story about Airstream Japan. In a photo on page 21, I notice that a number of the Airstreams in Japan have bicycle and cargo racks attached to their back bumpers. Are the units for the Japanese market made differently or have the Japanese come up with a way to properly attach a weight bearing receiver to the back of an Airstream?

clancy_boy · 08-26-2007, 05:14 PM

I have no information other than what you referenced from the same article in Airstream Life Magazine.

That said, I have been to Japan alot, and have witnessed some strange mods to American import items.

I find the bike rack a curious addition. The Japanese take their vehicle laws very serious. Smog control inspections are some of the strictest in the world. Care and upkeep of all vehicles is required, vehicle damage has to be repaired, tires are inspected regularly, etc.... I believe that if they allowed this modification then they studied it carefully and it is approved.

Now, we just need to see how they did it.

I will be in Tokyo in the spring, I think a trip to the one and only dealership is a sutiable way to spend my rest day. Who knows what I will find for decorations in my camper.

**moosetags** · 08-26-2007, 05:48 PM

That would be great, Mike. Also check out those little triangle reflectors. Since they appear on the back of every unit in the photo, they must be required on trailers in Japan. I think that they are neat, and would like to have a set.

clancy_boy · 08-26-2007, 06:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by moosetags

That would be great, Mike. Also check out those little triangle reflectors. Since they appear on the back of every unit in the photo, they must be required on trailers in Japan. I think that they are neat, and would like to have a set.

Yes, I am sure the triangles are required - you see them on all towed equipment - even the big rig trailers. When I go back I can pick up some - not scheduled for Japan again until May - June of next year, I have a nice Navy Vacation to a sunny sandy hot resort area this winter.

Devoman · 08-26-2007, 07:52 PM

I am going to call my relatives about this.I will try and get some ifo once I get a chance to do it.Hopefully it will be soon.Here is a something for you all right now though.Just to let you know.All of my relatives are in japan.Plus I will talk to my Mother about the website.
Welcome to AIRSTREAM JAPAN
These are Airstream pics of purchasers.Also ... Check out the vehicle they are pulling with.

**moosetags** · 08-26-2007, 08:30 PM

That's very interseting. There's a lot of big American iron to pull all those Airstreams. I did notice a couple of volvos and BMWs.