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Old 10-07-2009, 10:33 AM   #1
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Trailer worthy of full-timing

I am looking for a small airstream - 16-17 ft and plan to begin full-timing next spring. The question is about older Airstreams. There are not many small used Airstreams on EBay or in the classifieds but most are 60's era or vintage Airstreams. I think they may be better used by people who vacation for a week or two. Are they still sturdy enough for full timing?
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Old 10-07-2009, 10:44 AM   #2
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Due to my job I spend winters living full time in a 1973 Airstream. It is perfectly capable of keeping me happy and comfortable. In fact, I've thought about buying a new Airstream, but have wondered if any of them other than the Classic would handle the weather as well.

I would though, if I were you, seriously think about size. I would think that 16 feet would be mighty small for full time use.
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Old 10-07-2009, 10:46 AM   #3
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Welcome to the forums! It is always a pleasure having new folks join in. There is nothing wrong with a vintage Airstream as long as it has been taken good care off or restored. Our 1960 is as strong today as the day it was built. I am a bit surprised you are considering such a small AS for full-timing. If looking at the vintage trailers be aware of black and grey tank configurations. Have fun.
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Old 10-07-2009, 10:50 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by galsal49 View Post
...Are they still sturdy enough for full timing?
define FULL TIMING, and some of the other variables relevant to trayla life...

then check out the MANY threads on buying, use, care, maintenance, repairs, appliances and so on...

old/new, short/long, sturdy/frail, era/issues...

it's all here for the reading.

cheers
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Old 10-07-2009, 12:56 PM   #5
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If you're single, it might work. My choice would be a 25-28 footer.
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Old 10-07-2009, 01:13 PM   #6
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I bought a 25 footer that I will be fulltiming in for at least 2yrs. I don't think I could go any smaller and I've lived and worked aboard fast attack submarines with 170 other dudes for months on end, so I give you mad props if you fulltime in a 16 footer.
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Old 10-08-2009, 08:40 AM   #7
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Question

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If you're single, it might work. My choice would be a 25-28 footer.
IMHO, I would say, "Single, and with no pets."

Why limit yourself to such a small "house"? From what I see in the used market here, you will actually pay MORE to have a small one than a nice roomy one.
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Old 10-08-2009, 09:09 AM   #8
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Old 10-08-2009, 09:45 AM   #9
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IMHO, I would say, "Single, and with no pets."

Why limit yourself to such a small "house"? From what I see in the used market here, you will actually pay MORE to have a small one than a nice roomy one.
True story. We just got an '83 27' Excella in very nice condition for less than half the price of a vintage Bambi or Caravel. Storage, three or four times the storage.
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Old 10-08-2009, 05:34 PM   #10
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I would sell you mine, it is in good shape, and pulls good with a half ton truck. Iam third owner, had it for two years and just finishing with recaulking the entire trailer. If you or anyone else is interested, give me a pm. Otherwise its going on ebay this weekend. I hate to sell it but just bought a house and need the funds. I gave 7000.00 so make an offer. if interested.
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Old 10-08-2009, 05:45 PM   #11
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1977 31feet,
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Old 10-08-2009, 05:55 PM   #12
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Thatscool...do you have any pics of the inside?

Bob
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Old 10-08-2009, 06:08 PM   #13
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I do not have any inside pictures. But I will be taking some asap. It is in good shape, has twin beds in the rear. I painted the door to match the countertop. I havent seen another quite like it since I bought it. I dont want to take over this thread, pm me if interested.
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Old 10-10-2009, 09:09 PM   #14
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Fulltiming in 06 Bambi 16

If it doesn't sound too much like blowing my own horn, please have a look at the thread in the title. We're up to 18 months total (9 in one trip) out now. The AS took an awful hit with the hail in Denver on 7-20, so it and we will be here for the winter while "Dimples" gets repaired.

Many people seem to need something bigger, but know that they're heavier, harder to park, harder on the TV, more money all around.
You probably need more space if you have kids, grandkids, pets, or bulky hobbies. I'm outside as much as possible riding bikes (recumbents that store in the pickup), walking, looking around, etc. In the evenings we read or listen to music. I think we've been "trapped" 4 days or so. I ought to mention that my wife is really skilled at using the spaces wisely. Also, the full bed is just big enough for the two of us, but some people might find it cramped.

As for using an older AS, I say a good one well cared for and in good working order would work out very well. That's the thing about Airstreams, durability. Also, if you decided it really is too small, remember its resale value usually won't drop as fast as the other brands.

We say, small really is beautiful, and look forward to hearing what you decide.
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