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GreatPumpkin · 03-30-2006, 05:53 PM

Just purchased my first Airstream a week ago. Picked up a 1968 26' Overlander. (For pictures go to http://vintageairstream.com/archives...er8/index.html)

The P.O. has had her since 1983. I drove the Great Pumpkin (98 GMC K1500, Tangerine color) 555 miles to pick her up. Stopped at Les Schwab and had new wheels and tires put on, bearings packed and brought her home without a problem.

Now begins the restoration! I have been looking for awhile and had hoped to find a rear twin model, but couldn't pass this one up - it's a Ohio model, with a double bed. I plan on removing the "dresser" and closet and installing a twin bunk along the street side.

All appliances need replaced, not sure yet about the water heater. Plumbing is also shot. Floors appear to be solid. Bathroom is complete. Front Gaucho is still there!

I'll definitely be trolling this forum for answers as I run into the inevitible snags during the restoration process.

bill benton · 03-30-2006, 06:09 PM

Wow It looks to be in pretty good condition. Are you sure all the appliances have to be replaced. Usually the stove, if properly checked and serviced could work as good or better than a newer version an it would add to the looks of your trailer.

Mel · 03-30-2006, 06:45 PM

Welcome and congratulations on your Overlander. Hope you can join us at a forum rally one of these days. Good luck with your project!

cameront120 · 03-30-2006, 06:55 PM

Welcome! I agree with bill benton about the appliances. I keep hearing that if you're able to restore them, they will outperform much of the new equipment available today.

NorCal Bambi · 03-31-2006, 07:14 AM

Great to have you aboard. Your trailer looks great. I agree also on the appliances. You will be able to find a lot on line to help you repair them. Keep us posted on your progress.

Don

Boondocker · 03-31-2006, 07:18 AM

Welcome aboard and congratulations on the coach!

GreatPumpkin · 04-13-2006, 12:01 AM

The "fridge" is a definite replacement - it's only an "icebox" now, the guts have all been removed. The furnace is completely rusted out - need help on how exactly to remove that - where's it attached? Stove probably works, but is heavily rusted - I may try and order a replacement top and front control panel. It appears that it is otherwise in working condition. Water heater is unknown as of yet. Plumbing is copper, with obvious freeze bursts - I haven't decided to replace with copper or go with pex - what's everyones thoughts on that?
Started the restoration project, sanding down all the woodwork, it's dirty/stained and the finish is water damaged over the years, most of it will be salvageable. Pulled up the carpeting and the original tiles, found floor rot by the door and under the curbside window, unfortunately it also got part of the gaucho, so I'll be rebuilding the lower end of that also.
Thanks for all the replies.
JB