New members looking at 1970's era models

[maccamper]

We are brand new to the forum, and currently looking for a rear bath, 70's model to be our first trailer. Could anyone provide suggestions on what potential problems to look for when inspecting a potential purchase? Are there any units for sale out there? Also, any suggestions from current owners on what they would modify/improve before our first trip would be greatly appeciated. Thanks very much.

[azflycaster]

The one issue that seems to dominate 70's rear bath units is rear end sag. It is more common in the longer (31') units, but should be check on all. Another issue is the floor in the area of the rear bumper. The design of the bumper alowed water to seep onto the floor from the bumper which caused it to rot over the years. The 70's were also the era that Airstream started to put grey tanks in the trailers. 74 and above will have grey tanks.

BTW, welcome to the forums!

[overlander64]

Greetings maccamper!

Welcome to the Forums!

Originally Posted by maccamper

We are brand new to the forum, and currently looking for a rear bath, 70's model to be our first trailer. Could anyone provide suggestions on what potential problems to look for when inspecting a potential purchase? Are there any units for sale out there? Also, any suggestions from current owners on what they would modify/improve before our first trip would be greatly appeciated. Thanks very much.

I can't add much to what azflycaster has posted, but will offer this suggestion about finding units for sale in Central Illinois. When I purchased my Overlander, I made use of all of the varying free and low-cost shopper publications and found a significant number of coaches advertised in these -- in fact, that is how I found my Overlander (not too far from Mendota, IL). Vintage Airstreams aren't prevalent on the market here in Central Illinois, but they can be found. I found my Argosy Minuet just across the border in Indiana through the classifieds section on the Vintage Airstream Club's website.

Even my '64 developed rear end separation, but we are a reasonable driving distance from an Airstream dealer who is Vintage friendly and has a staff that did a wonderful job repairing the separation such that it has not shown any indication of reappearing after more than five years -- Ace Fogdall RV in Cedar Falls, IA is Vintage Friendly and may also ocassionally have Vintage coaches in their inventory. You can find Ace Fogdall RV on the web at: www.acefogdallrv.com

Good luck with your search!

Kevin