Virgin!

[abridges01]

Hi folks:

I am considering joining the Airstram clan and was wondering if there are any publications worth reading on restoring Airstreams? I am looking for a 'partial', rather than a complete restoration project.

Any suggestions?

Thank you,

Andrew

[joewinfield]

Hi Andrew and welcome. I believe reading the threads on this forum is a great way to get an education on Airstream work. Maybe someone else has knowledge of a good book. Good luck on your quest. joe

[GreatPumpkin]

Print your own book - right here

There are pages and pages of topics about Airstreams right here. Any possible question you could come up with has probably already been answered (at least once) here on the forums. Utilize the search function and dive in.

If you're considering joining, and are looking for a vintage unit, research "repairs" to see what you're getting into and what to expect and inspect when looking at prospective units.

Welcome to the forums

[Frank S]

Hi abridges01--The best info read on A/S restoring is The "Airstream Forum", and you are on it now. The best part of the forum is the 15,000+ members who readily answer your questions, with suggestions and recommendations regarding things that have worked for them in their restorations, with lots of pictures. Get an A/S and get restoring.--Frank S

[moosetags]

Welcome; this is the place to gleen all of the info that you will need.

[InsideOut]

It's unanimous! You found it ~

Shari

[clancy_boy]

Keep posting threads with titles like that and you will get all the information you will need in short order.

Welcome to the forums.

[abridges01]

Thanks folks, I am getting the distinct impression that I've come to the right place

I have another question that I am hoping you folks can assist me with, namely, do you recommend a certain size trailer given the following criteria:
a. Family size is four, with two small children, ages 4 and 2.
b. We live in Southern California and wish to visit as many state parks as possible. Is there a size limitation on any parks or camp sites?

Thanks for all the help.

Andrew

[Frank S]

Hi abridges01-- If you stay in the 25' to 27' range you can still tow with a 1/2 ton truck or SUV with about a 5.3ltr engine. This size is large enough to be comfortable for a family of four, small enough to get into most state parks, and easy to tow. We have never had any problem getting into state campsites with our 27'er, and we have traveled in most of the country, however I have read that some parks limit length to 25'. For a longer A/S (which is heavier) you will need a 3/4 ton TV with a larger engine. Get that A/S, and get going.--Frank S

[Chaplain Kent]

Welcome to the forums. I agree that that you will find all the reading on restoration right here. Other books you might be interested in reading after you get started are ones on paying off credit card debt, conquering obsessive behavior, and how not to bore your friends and neighbors with your new hobby.
Good luck to you.

[Frank S]

Hi abridges01--If you get an A/S that has most systems operable, you can enjoy A/S'ing while restoring. Fridge doesn't work yet, load it with ice in a plastic pan, or freeze ice in milk jugs for a weekend. Water heater doesn't work yet, heat wash up water on the stove. A/C or furnace doesn't work, plan a trip for cooler, or warmer weather. Toilet doesn't work, get a $69 Porta-Potty at WalMart. Many leaks in the piping, use water from milk jugs. You get the idea--get your family involved in enjoying the use of the A/S as soon as possible. Things that you must attend to first, and must be in good, safe, operating condition are: tires, wheels, brakes, lights, and hitch. Have fun.--Frank S

[CaddyGrn]

Welcome to the forums!

On your first question ~ Great Pumpkin said it well!

On your second questions ~ there are lots of things to consider whether buying vintage, used, or new.... depends on so many variables that your family must decide upon. If you want to camp in National Forest Campgrounds and State/National Parks I suggest you limit your size... maybe 25 - 26 feet. Many parks have size restrictions. Check those out first.

There are several good threads on what to look for in an Airstream.... try the search tool. There is a good thread on Considerations for buying an Airstream that is quite useful, I think. It discusses newer Airstreams, but the same considerations apply to all.

http://www.airforums.com/forum...eam-22920.html

Good Luck and Have Fun! The best thing about having an Airstream is the great people you will meet! Check out a local rally (see the rally calendar on this forum) and go on Airstream "tours" and see for yourself what you and your family like! Ask a zillion questions.

Mrs. NorCal Bambi (traveling in S Tardis)