Hello from Indiana

[rpenczek]

Just purchased a 2005 30' Classic twin with dinette. I pick it up (near Austin TX) on the 30th of July. I've been a tent camper (with the family and Scouts) and backpacker with my sons and solo for many years. Don't think the AS will fit in my pack however. I'll be towing with a 2015 Silverado with Max Trailer Package for now (diesel in the future???).

Pre-pick up I am having Sendel 16" and Michelin tires installed as well as having breaks checked and bearings repacked. Also added a Blue Ox hitch (perhaps should have gone with ProPride based on these forums, but saved $1500 for now).

I'm fully outfitted for "camping" and have been gathering the trailer gear I will need (water hoses, cords, sewer hose, etc...). I found some, what look to be, pretty comprehensive lists via google.

I'm very excited about not needing to set up tents (in the rain) and looking forward to sleeping in a bed while camping. But, I'm a bit nervous on using the various AS systems, such as using the water tank and finally the dump station. I've printed the 2005 owner's manual and have been studying.

Once I have my hands on the trailer, I'll post some photos and then begin the process of any necessary repairs and modifications to fit my needs. Already i'm thinking backup camera, solar, and blue tooth for the AM/FM/CD.

[FCStreamer]

That's great! Remember to post lots of pics!

[Wingeezer]

We have the same year and model - except Queen bed. Bought it used about 8 years ago and have been pretty happy with it and no doubt you will be also!

Only major changes we have made include 16" rims and Michelins, Hensley hitch, centramatics, TPMS, and Maxim skylights.

Over the years we have had a few minor electrical issues with electric brakes, AC, tongue jack, and with HW water heater but able to resolve myself - just corroded connectors in every case!

It helps to get familiar with doing a bit of troubleshooting! If you don't already know how, might be worth learning to service the wheel bearings yourself - not difficult, you will save $$ and ensure it is done properly! Brakes can be checked at the same time

Hope you enjoy it!

Brian.

[TinTurtle]

Congratulations on your preferment.

[tvketchum]

Welcome to the fun! There are more great friends you haven't met yet at www.wbcci.org. There are three great Indiana units where enthusiasts just like you are having great trips, great times, great meals, and swapping tall tales around the campfire! 5809 will be looking for you on the road!


Sent from my iPhone using Airstream Forums

Tom
TVKetchum

[rpenczek]

So, we picked up the rig in New Braunfels TX on Saturday morning. Fresh hitch, 16" Sendels and new rubber. The consignment dealer (Evergreen RV) managed to pilfer the shore power cable (shame on me for not noticing) and we were off. Got to Atoka OK to set camp and discovered the missing cable. It was 98 degrees, so off to a hotel.

On our way thru Springfield, MO, we picked up a cable at Campingworld (open on Sunday) and were able to camp on Sunday night in IL. Everything worked great (except the fridge, which was known from the inspection). Air conditioning was very nice.

While camping we really played with everything. Fond the water tank was full. We didn't really use it (just of the stool). Only used the bathroom for number 1 and used several gallons of water in the sink, just so I could learn to use the dump station when we checked out. Well, the PO and/or the consignment dealer didn't dump the tanks, Glad I did. Now I know how.

Towing with my 1/2 ton was interesting, even with max tow and a new Blue OX 1000 LB hitch, the big rigs passing by in the construction zones made for white knuckles. Also, anything over about 62 MPH made for sway (will have to sort that out). Of course, over about 1,000 miles and three days, I am use to how it works.

Airstream directions are quite lacking. I'm glad I did a bunch of youtube before pick up. Even getting the Air Conditioning on was guess work. I'll be making a "detailed" check list of how to's and don't forget's for the next trip.

Finally, like getting a bird on the last hole of a crappy round of gold, I made coffee (it was raining and I didn't have to get out of my tent to make it, so I will camp in the TT again.

[HiJoeSilver]

For gurther info;
https://www.amazon.com/Newbies-Guide.../dp/B004SUOZCC

Available on kindle.

Sounds like a good start so far though!

[duncans]

We were strictly backpackers for years, leaving our AS to sadly sit alone at home. Now, back into the AS world, but it is weird! We aren't used to "pitching" our aluminum tent so close to other people (we live on a farm, nearest home is 1/2 mi away). Nor am I used to all of the setup-takedown of the trailer. In some ways I find tents to be easier, offering more options than the trailer. However, weather, aging and my bones do appreciate the AS.

I am hoping to find a happy medium, day hikes and 2-3 day backpack trips with the trailer as a base camp.However, my husband is reluctant to leave the AS unattended for any length of time. We shall see what the future brings.

Congratulations on your new AS and good luck with your transition!

Susan