So I just dropped 3k on an airstream...

[markjitsu]

Pictures of exterior as promised.

[ALANSD]

I would not do a shell off unless you have a lot of time, money and patience. Tear out the floor where it is rotted and see what needs repair underneath. If you can get to the frame areas that need repair it can be done with out the frame and interior skins all coming out.
Shell off repairs and restoration are great,not knocking it. But it is a very big & serious task. If you choose to do it. good luck. But it may not be necessary to get this trailer to a workable and enjoyable one.
I personally like the rear bedroom models a lot.

[pamu]

I am very new to the group. I, too, was a lurker and only recently found a unit that was not too big of a project within my price range. Therefore, everyone that has responded to you has WAY more valuable experience than I do. But this is my newbie take on your situation:

For what you paid, your unit looks GREAT! I would make it safe-- axles, electrical, plumbing etc.. and then use it. You will figure out your priorities and triage your to-do list better than you could ever without living it. Also, attend some rallies in your area. The community is wonderfully helpful! BEFORE you gut, take a hard look at the forums. Ever wonder why the for-sales are filled with gutted units? People get them, gut them and then realize that they are way over their heads in time and MONEY. Your initial investment is super-- kudos on the find! But you don't mention how much you are willing to put into your renovation. The expertise part-- you could probably figure out (again, the community is super helpful). Best of luck to you on your AS adventure!

[ALANSD]

I had my first Airstream with absolutely no knowledge at the time. Flew up to Dayton Ohio from Atlanta and drove it back.
6 or 7 of us web seeking folks, started this forum with the idea of helping each other. It obviously worked. LOL
You can pretty much fix anything on your Airstream with what you find here. Just don't take every OPINION as fact..

[Bullit]

Hey Mark,
Welcome to the site. I am not sure how much help I could be, but I am in The Manassas area and have been working on a "Full Monte" resto-mod of a 71 Caravel. My best advice is Try to stay motivated and be really patient.

Bullit

[DFlores]

Mark,
My renovation took 2 1/2 years to complete and mine is 22 ft long, just as point of reference. We did a complete shell off,


Sent from my iPhone
David & Diane

[Chae]

You put a 1/8 drill bit on it and slowly drill through the head. It pops off fairly easily. Don't get too enthusiastic. Aluminum is soft compared to the bit and you could enlarge the hole accidentally.

Price seems excellent. I just purchased a '76 Ambassador for $3300. Interior is a bit more worn. Price around where I live (Atlanta) was crazy so I ended up buying one from rural NC. Much more reasonable.