Are you referring to the Airstream Argosy, or non-Argosy Airstreams painted a silver color (and THAT color only) in lieu of polishing (or to cover damage)?
My opinion is a silver painted airstream is worth a lot less than a real one. If you wanted to paint it red, white or blue I would have a better opinion.
I'm wondering what folks think about the value of painted vintage trailers. Would a painted skin typically reduce the value of a trailer?
I'd love to hear everyone's thoughts!
Have you seen Vintage Thunder, it looks awesome.
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'74 Overlander (Rear Bed)
'77 20' Argosy MH (Looking for a new home)
2007 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Duramax
2006 GMC Sierra 5.3 V8
WBCCI 1754 - AIR # 6281 w) www.balrgn.com www.balrgn.com/Airstream.htm
is the question related to ONE specific model or year or a particular unit?
instead of painting with such broad strokes...
or relying on answers that gloss over the dollar issue...
how about YOU outline the specifics of the trailer in question...
or fill in the blanks about y u wanna know...
then the answers will be more to the point.
a 'stream/gossy that came originally painted is a different issue than painting old or new units after the fact.
and like all personalized changes, should just be enjoyed by the owner...
most cosmetic tweaks and touch ups LOSE VALUE unless the next buyer loves polka dots and velvet as much as you...
that certainly applies to things painted, used and resold later.
cheers
2air'
Thanks for all the responses!
The trailer in question is a 65' Globe Trotter. It has been painted a silver-grey that appears to be a fair color approximation. The current owner bought the trailer already painted (it was painted by the original owner). When she (the current owner) tried to have the paint removed and have the trailer polished, she was apparently told the polish was a no-go, so she elected to have it repainted. When I asked about the possibility of the paint covering any body damage, she said no, not to her knowledge (I do believe she was being honest).
I'm far from a vintage AS expert, but I know enough to be a little dangerous- I really don't know what to think here...
If removing the paint was determined to be a "no go" by the PO, it may be because the skins were sanded or textured prior to painting the first time. If so, they are probably too damaged to be polished without an whole bunch of grief! As I see it, you have two choices:
1) If you have your heart set on a polished trailer > keep looking.
2) If you are okay with a silver painted one > go for it!
Shari
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Vintage Airstream Club - Past President 2007/2008
WBCCI #1824 - DenCO Unit Past President (2005)
AIR #30 - Join Date: 2-25-2002
Our '95 Airstream had two painted panels when we purchased her; clearcoat was failing in other areas, some more noticeably than others. Today, the clearcoat failure is much worse, but the painted panels are fine. Give me a fully painted Airstream with the paint/clearcoat done well anyday over the slow but continual spoiling of the "original" aluminum trailers with their clear coat failure. I wouldn't have said that five years ago, but experience has changed my opinion. ~G
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maxandgeorgia
1995 Airstream Classic Limited 30' ~ Gypsy
Chev Silverado 2500HD Duramax/Allison, 4X4, Crew Cab
WBCCI #5013 AIR #2908
WDCU. . .MALs no longer! What's a few miles among Airstream friends?
I'd say a nice little GT is hard to find. If you like everything else about it, I wouldn't skip it because of the paint, especially if it looks like it's a good job that won't cause you trouble in the near future.
My trailer was painted after sanding and priming. It also has clearcoat for protection like Andy from Inland described. I believe that I will have no issues with corrosion like so many others are having.
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