Sorry if I offended anyone with comparing Jayco to Airstream. I LOVE Airstream. I just think it will be next to impossible for us to find a small. late model AS that is under $15,000. It is disheartening but I will keep looking (for a while anyway). Thanks for your replies.
I think it will be next to impossible for you to find ANY year small Airstream that is in really good shape for under $15,000. The smaller they are, the more expensive they are.
I think the answer to your questions may be fairly easy. You mentioned that your SOB was junk after only 3 years. That speaks volumes in itself. The reason you see much activity on forums restoring/updating AS is because they last 40, 50 & 60 years or more (with proper upkeep). Most sob's have a hard time making it 10 years.
Quest. #1 - The floors are made from plywood.
Quest. #2 - Not sure any change here other than type of wood perhaps (others will chime in with info).
Quest. #3 - Routine inspection.
Quest. #4 - No. Most AS go much longer than any of the sob before leaks develop. Some never leak. I've seen AS being used out in the woods for hunting camps that have not moved for 40 years with no leaks. You will need to do your routine inspections just like you would with any camper or even your own house. If you find a leak in your AS, sob or house you catch it early and have it repaired.
I found a 65 Safari 2 years ago. I spent the better part of a year restoring/updating the entire trailer. It is currently 45 years old and I expect that it will out last me. Happy hunting.
Tim - please tell me details on your wheels, manufacturer, size, width, bolt circle etc. Many thanks
I'm not trying to talk you out of Airstreams, but you do know many pop-ups now are available with electric lifts?
And if you're very concerned about post-purchase "issues", a new Airstream may be better than a used or vintage one. There's the 2 year factory warranty to help calm your apprehensions.
pop up with electric lift? Sounds good to me.... Esp since the Airstream is so far from being ready....
2018 23' International
1965 17' Caravel
La La Land
, Wisconsin
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 89
I'm very happy to say we found just what we wanted! A 1965Caravel that was only a few hours away. She is beautiful! Yes, it will need some work, but after what we put into our park model after it flooded, this is a walk in the park! I think my dh loves it as much as I do. It's the first time I've seen him interested in something in a long time! Wish me luck
This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Airstream, Inc. or any of its affiliates. Airstream is a registered trademark of Airstream Inc. All rights reserved. Airstream trademark used under license to Social Knowledge LLC.