Older versus newer?

[time to kill]

Hello to all. It is a pleasure to join in this great community! My wife and I are about to sell our home and Airstream for a while before resettling. I have a million questions but I'll just start with one. Searching the classifieds I am seeing some trailers from the seventies and early eighties in (what appears to be) excellent condition. Is there any reason we should be avoiding trailers from this era if they appear to be in really good shape?

Thanks

[SSChanger]

The only reason I can think of is size. There were dimension changes in '88 and '94. The '94 models are taller and wider. We love our '94, and at 6'4", I appreciate the extra headroom. The years you mention used more plastic in the interiors too. We've got oak cabinetry, and it's very nice. Plus, you can get a very nice '94 or later for much less than new, although they are harder to find.

Dennis

[wahoonc]

A lot of choices depending on your temperament. The vintage units are typically lighter than the newer ones, thus requiring a lighter tow vehicle. I can tow our 1975 with a half ton pickup, where as a 2000 or so model of similar size requires a heavy truck in the 3/4ton range.

They are all going to need maintenance and repairs regardless of the age, if you can find an older unit that has been well maintained it will be a great find and save you money over a newer unit.

Aaron

[mcair]

Check carefully for water damage, but this applies to a trailer of any age. Even new ones can have leaks. Otherwise, go for it. We bought our '88 for $6500 and have put approx $2500 into it since then for needed repairs. Still a fraction of the price of a new one.