Buying a classic

[jaxenro]

My wife and I are looking to go full time in the near future. We are budgeting in the neighborhood of $20,000 (give or take) for our purchase.

After researching and looking over a lot of makes and models we have narrowed it down to a Airstram Classic, preferably late 1980's early 1990s, a 290 to 325 or even a 345. Searching the web I know of about a dozen for sale now with prices ranging from $10,000 to $40,000, with most in the $18,000 to $28,000 range.

What can I expect for this amount of money? I am thinking used in good mechanical condition but not pristine? Is a 290 too small for two people, would you recommend a larger model? I like the rear twin bed layout. I plan on working from the MH using a satellite internet connection as my job will allow me to work remotely

[Keyair]

Talk to Kmpro... he has a really nice one for sale maybe?

[Hagrid]

I am new to the forum. My wife and I have been looking on-line at motorhomes between mid-late 1980's. We have found many on-line to buy, however, they have been a great distance from us. We live in the Northeast. We are planning a trip down to Florida for the beginning of April (2011). We are wondering if there is anyone here in the Northeast or near Margate, Florida (we'd be willing to drive a couple of hours) that could show us their motorhome and educate us-give us some pointers. As newies we are very excited about becoming Airstream owners! Thanks, Hagrid

[John H.]

Hello Hagrid

My one suggestion would be to Purchase one that the owner is actively Using and maintaining.

the nicest one I know of is in the Hazard Ky. area. Low Miles. and it has been in storage since new.

If it is still available ? It would be a sweet Original, Low Miles A.S.

All new Michelin tires and many other new Upgrades. Very ready to go. its an 88 or 89 345 I believe.

Unless you find a cherry. 100% well maintained and updated. To Your taste.

You will spend 10 to 20 thousand easily the 1st. season or two.

Good Luck. Enjoy

[au_ee]

You might try checking eBay. They have a lot of listings.

[cmadmaxman]

Hagrid, if you can make a stop over at the Georgia Mountain Fairground on your way to Florida the 8th and 9th of April for the Spring Stream, you could be in the hub of over 30 Airstreamers. There will be Motorhomes and Trailers there along with many years of experience.
Take a look at "Upcoming Rallies" for the Spring Steam.

Also y'all check out Fred's Airstream site. Lots of History for you there and also units for sale. Fred's Airstream Archives @ ViewRVs.com - Used Travel Trailers and MotorHomes For Sale

[AirRowan]

My wife and I have a 345 and we live in florida and would let you see it if you make it to key west. we will be leaving the end of April for Upstate NY. We will be doing a transplant on it 454 to Duramx so it will not be in perfect condition but you will see what mods can be made.
Josh

[Airslide]

Wow. a 345 with a duramax. Now thats a nice upgrade.

Would love to see pictures.

Vinnie

[John H.]

Originally Posted by Airslide

Wow. a 345 with a duramax. Now thats a nice upgrade.

Would love to see pictures.

Vinnie

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f311...wer-73574.html

[Airslide]

Thats a nice power plant for sure. A real upgrade. I hope he remembered to remove the bungee off the upper radiator hose!

Thanks for sharing.

Vinnie

[Hagrid]

Hi Josh,
Thank you for your offer to look at your motorhome. We'd like to try to get to Key West-if possible, it may be on the 13th. Might that work for you? Do you have any times that work better than others. How far do you think that you are from the Margate area. Thanks, Paul (Hagrid)
-We'll be getting to FL on the 1st and will be leaving on the 8th.

[AirRowan]

So do u own a 345 now?! What ended up happening out in Ohio?

[Chaplain Kent]

I sure do miss my classic 280. I miss the conversations at campgrounds about my beauty, the stares while driving 55 top speed down the road, and most of all being here on the forum. I now have a trouble free trailer, that's right nothing ever breaks on my 30' Excella and my bank account has almost recovered from my MH days. But I do miss it so. Full timing in a classic. Make sure you bring along a sleeping bag so you can camp out in the repair shops. However, I'd do it in a NY minute.

[Astrodokk]

The twin bed option was ok when my young sons and I went traveling. I would have preferred the twin beds to be at the rearmost of the RV, and the bath to be in the mid section. Going past the beds from my gaucho to the latrine at night always woke them up.
Nowadays, the boys are gone and I would prefer the island queen at the rear for me and my honey. I have a 28', but if I had to do it over again, I would choose a single rear axle 310. The dual axles cost more at tolls, and of course would cost more to repair.

[pwhittle]

If you are still looking, I just listed my 1982 31' motorhome on the AirForums classifieds.

Paul

[pdallas]

Jaxenro: I like your budget, but keep in mind you will still have to spend additional money on it. I think the 310 is an excellent size for two people and twin beds work well because you have a little more room to get around. It's all about personal preference. I agree, Kempro has a nice rig. I've seen it. The one in Louisiana looks pretty good to me for the money. Happy Hunting!