Newbies

[booma]

OK. We just purchased our first AS - a 2002 Classic 30' w/ slide out (to be honest, it's our first travel trailer). This also our first post.
Leaving next week to pick it up in Colorado Springs at Windish RV (private seller, but Windish checked it out, did a Predelivery Inspection, and is storing it until we get there). AS tech will check us out on the systems etc.
We are thinking of spending the first night at the KOA next door to Windish in case we goof something up (strong possibility).
Tow vehicle is no problem (Ram 2500 diesel) and I have towed big boats a bit - but never an Airstream.
Unit does not have any front seating. We are OK with that as we we were thinking about a couple of nice swivel recliners, but after looking at some of the sofas with built in foot rests we might revisit that thought.
Was wondering if any seasoned ASers had any thoughts on front seating - or any advice on our first long haul (December WX, Colorado to South Carolina). Depending on WX, we are thinking of heading S and taking a left at Albuquerque.
Also looking for any SC groups.
Thanks in advance

[n2916s]

Welcome aboard. I think you will be surprised at how simple you will find operating your new trailer. The systems of that era were robust and straightforward.

As for seating, well, we like the original sleeper couch because we occasionally have overnight guests.

The truck will be fine. Make sure Windish rigs you out with a weight distributing/anti-sway hitch. It will look more complex than it is but it is pretty much necessary.

As for weather, adjust on the fly.

Have fun!

[moosetags]

Congratulations on your new baby. May you have safe travels and many great Airstream Adventures with her.

I have no other advice than to drive carefully and enjoy yourselves.

[SCOTTinNJ]

Staying local is a good idea. Make sure you understand all the systems and they work. Good luck!

[Woosch]

Congratulations! Good advice on the anti sway. Also, stay close to the dealer for a couple of days. I would recommend picking up on a Monday or Tuesday if possible. You will have some questions and if something is wrong it can be fixed there.
The weather for the drive home may be a challenge. I have been on I40 this time of year and it can be windy and icy. Think it all depends on what the forecast is at the time. I would consider I10 if things were a bit marginal.
Consider downloading the owners manual on the Airstream site to educate yourself about your trailer. You will get a lot of information about operating the different systems. Also, "Newbies Guide to Airstreaming" and "The (nearly) Complete Guide to Airstream Maintenance" would be good reading before pickup day.
Got a bit carried away there. Good luck!

[gregwall]

Welcome Booma! You're going to have a great time, and the Classic is a great trailer. We had a 2005 30' Classic and loved it. I second Woosch's recommendations. Make sure the tires are less than four years old. Exciting isn't it?

[cwf]

Welcome! Do plan a couple of extra days near the dealer.. including a couple extra on return... the WX can be interesting this time of year.. and... regular RV dealers may have trouble servicing problems you encounter enroute home. If all goes smoothly, you will be home in time to relax from the trip...

Also, there is a lot of 'spooling up' with the processes for landing/depart cycles. There are also details about an Airstream (and other lower RVs) when Airstreaming.. getting to know the way stuff works (AC vs DC systems... LP system)...

Enjoy!

[gregwall]

You can make 2-3 days if you are careful, don't need the furnace. I agree, a shut-off switch will stop any bleeding, but your refrigerator won't be able to light. In storage, it is very handy. Lifewire.com rated the top nine generators, and I was surprised to see Best Overall: WEN 56200i was rated best. For $450, it's hard to go wrong even if you have an expensive solar system. Sometimes it just won't stop raining. We have used Hondas at a hunting cabin, and they and Yamahas are great.

[dbj216]

Hello from Colorado. The weather forecast for next week looks pretty good. I stayed at the Colorado Springs KOA south on I-25 last September with my new to me 1975 Overlander, see photo. It's a nice enough "overnight" campground. Better than Walmart. I saw the big Windish location next door.

It is good advice to stay in your new Airstream for a couple of nights to get checked out in your new rig. Windish ought to pleased to do this training and fixing (if needed) for you. You might even unhitch, then hitch up and pull it around the campground or even a little bit on a good road. Then pull it back into your campsite and unhitch, set up, and see how it all works. Windish or these Forums have a good checklist of all the things you must do and check on before pulling away. Things like light checks, furnace and pump off, doors and windows locked, holding tanks empty and the like.

I-25 south of Colorado Springs isn't too bad traffic wise. Take is slow and easy, 62 mph is more than enough speed. Check the weather frequently and don't be afraid to layup for a while if needed. "Must get there itis" is a major reason for accidents. Your Airstream will keep you warm and comfortable even in a Walmart or truck stop. I think you will find your Airstream will tow quite nicely.

David

[Woosch]

You might want to check out this link. They have tons of videos that will help you get started.

https://youtu.be/CCSevhxQzXc