Hail damage

mherbert · 04-09-2007, 07:53 PM

I am about to start extensive restoration of my 1963 22' Safari. I recently have read in numerous places that Airstreams are subject to rather severe damage from hail storms. One person typified it as looking like "being attactked by monkeys with ball peen hammers on speed". We plan on doing alot of travel in the northern tier of the country and Canada and don't want to spend many thousands only to have the work ruined. Any thoughts?

Gen Disarray · 04-09-2007, 07:59 PM

My thought is it is a camper not a holly shrine. Fix it up, take it out and use it. That is what it is for. Dont let your airstream get in the way of enjoying life.

ZoominC6 · 04-09-2007, 08:14 PM

Go for it. Get on out there and enjoy. I'd worry more about Springtime hail in the Southwest than up North. The clouds spit cannonballs in Texas in the Springtime.

Go camping and HAPPY TRAILS

Sugarfoot · 04-09-2007, 08:16 PM

Life is full of risks, but I've got to agree with Rodney. I don't want my ability to enjoy life to be sucked away by the "what ifs".

That being said, I do hold my breath every time hail comes through the Tennessee Valley. Yes, I have some small hail dents and I will feel the pain if I get the bigger ones. However, I'll get over it and continue to go anywhere I want to go as long as I have a tow vehicle to get me there.

soldiermedic · 04-09-2007, 08:18 PM

At least your trailer is a 63 with all-clad aluminum on it. It holds up much better against hail then the new soft-alluminum coached.

Steve

tinman1 · 04-09-2007, 08:30 PM

I can easily identify and relate to your feelings. On April 19th, 2006, we experienced hail storm damage also to our 1993 Airstream. I first thought it would be totally destroyed during the approximately 15 to 20 minute hail storm.

One of our vehicles was totalled due to the storm; the Airstream was also left with battle scars.

After searching, trying to find the best approach to handle the damage - I ran across an article about Airstreams damaged by hail. The article stated the dents should be looked upon as marks of distinction and character. At first, it was hard to accept, then on a camping trip, we ran across another Airstream with similar appearance who also had heard the same. Since then I have heard others with similar experience and now after one year - we have thoroughly enjoyed our A/S with character marks of distinction. It hasn't leaked and my wife and I feel we have a real "classic" that we can enjoy and not worry about a slight imperfection.

Just relax and enjoy your Airstream with character marks of distinction.

Curt

L&C Woogie · 04-09-2007, 08:56 PM

Last summer we took an extended trip from the west coast to the east coast and back. Went up thru the Canadian Rockies and stayed in a campground just west of Calgary. During the night there were several pea sized hail storms which could have, potentially, damaged the roof. But, no damage. What was really fun tho, was listening to the hail hitting the roof vents. Sounded like a thousand snare drummers drumming all at once. Kept us awake quite a bit of the night but was neat.
Don't worry, be happy. Life is too short to worry about perfection.

vswingfield · 04-13-2007, 06:26 PM

My Excella has severe "zits" on its forehead. Apparently, it was towed through a hailstorm. I bought it in January, and paid about $5,500 less than an almost identical trailer without the damage. It doesn’t leak and the interior is excellent. I just look down when I walk past the front. I am considering making it a giant baseball cap.

Silvertwinkie · 04-13-2007, 06:30 PM

Just collected some $$$ from insurance fro hail damage to my car. The car is 11 years old and has 94k on it. It's boarderline not worth fixing. It's a tough call and can be even tougher mulling the issue with and Airstream. Not cheap and not sure you can get the same type alum. Can you?

jdalrymple · 04-13-2007, 06:43 PM

I subscribe to the it can only be new so long therory. Fix what needs fixing, upgrade or improve what you like, and go camping. Have fun.

Melody Ranch · 04-13-2007, 06:45 PM

13 (Friday the 13th) April. Report just in 2 3/4 inch hail passing thru. NASCAR at Texas motor Speedway got a direct hit. Tornados reported on the ground now moving thru the Cities area. I now know why Zoomin C6 moved to VA.

Gen Disarray · 04-13-2007, 08:36 PM

When I was still a firefighter/medic we used to make fun (not trust) the guys with the to clean turn out gear. Getting out and doing it results in dings, scratches, and stories. It is the scars that bespeak of hard earned character.

Silvertwinkie · 04-13-2007, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gen Disarray

When I was still a firefighter/medic we used to make fun (not trust) the guys with the to clean turn out gear. Getting out and doing it results in dings, scratches, and stories. It is the scars that bespeak of hard earned character.

Good point. Think I'll really think about getting my ride fixed....

Auretrvr · 04-13-2007, 09:00 PM

it's best to relax and enjoy your A/S. Our Ernestine had evidence of hail when we got her. We have had two small storms since and I admit it makes me a bit sad. On the other hand, I am learning to think of the dings as her "dimples." She is flattered when I say that!