What is it and what's it worth?

[z8 hm]

Part time neighbors of my mother-in-law have a trailer that they may want to sell. The owners don't know much about it, but my mother-in-law is interested based on on our own AS. I've attached pics if any of you could help with identification. It looks to be an International, but we don't know what year. I'm thinking '70's? Also, any guesses as to why the rear looks newer than the rest of the trailer? The interior apparently is rough but intact (they are using it to store stuff currently). Finally, anyone have a very rough price range (of course dependent on frame, suspension interior etc)?

Thanks,

[Big C]

This may help with identification:
http://www.airstreamdoctor.com/ There is a Airstream vin chart there.

[idroba]

If you can get the VIN number we can tell you a lot more. It should be on a plate near the door or on the front of the rig. The exterior looks pretty good in the photos but a better inspection is in order.

[azflycaster]

It appears to be a mid to late 70s 31' with the International trim package. The VIN will tell all.

The end pieces look that way on unpolished trailers of this era. My theory is the bending process causes this.

[dwightdi]

The material they need to use for the stretch drawing process for the hemispheres is different that the single curved pieces that make up the straight section of the trailer.

[Mike Leary]

Body looks in pretty good shape. When Beatrice Foods owned AS, they were infamous for cutting corners, same with Harley and AMF. The proof of the pudding is to have someone inspect the coach, internally and see what works and what does not. I'd be looking for soft spots in the usual places, as well.

[z8 hm]

Thank you all! We're getting the VIN.

[webspinner]

Look for a plate at the back or by the door with a mix of letters and numbers stamped into the aluminum.

[z8 hm]

Here's the data I got back. Is this what we're looking for?

I31-D6J-2425

Sovereign

A 14 GF

If not, I've got people standing by to get more info...

[BIGED52]

Originally Posted by z8 hm

Here's the data I got back. Is this what we're looking for?

I31-D6J-2425

Sovereign

A 14 GF

If not, I've got people standing by to get more info...

I can help with some info from the vin:

I31 = International trim package & 31 feet in length.
That means it is indeed a Sovereign.

D = Double bed

6 stands for year = 1976

J = Jackson Center

2425 = Production number of the coach

Hope this helps, Ed

[z8 hm]

Thanks! Until we get a look at the interior, any idea where I can go to figure out value? (if it's too expensive, my mother-in-law will just pass).

Looks like it is a 1976 31' Sovereign with International Trim package. If location matters, it is in Branson, MO.

[webspinner]

At that age, a trailer's value depends more on current condition than on the original trim package. Some have been maintained in nearly original condition, others are, really truly, chicken coops.

Without a hands on inspection, it's tough to tell whether there is floor rot, rear end separation, axles needing repair, and whether or not the appliances do actually work as claimed.

Does anyone have a quick link to that inspection checklist for estimating value of a trailer? I can't find my link.

[kokopat]

Price vs. Condition - Vintage Airstream

hope this helps