looking to buy a '73 Sovereign tomorrow, need advice on what problems to look for.

[Jeepster]

Hello Airstreamers!
I found what seems to be a great deal on a '73 sovereign 31' with center bath. My parents have already looked at it and said the exterior was in great condtion and the interior needs refurbished. I am looking for some advice on problem areas to look at. They are asking $1500 for it. From the research ive done I think that is a good price. Am I correct?
I plan on doing a restoraton on the trailer so minor problems are no big deal. But are there any major problems that I should look out for?

[DKB_SATX]

If it has all its windows and doors and the floor is solid enough for you to get it home, it's probably worth that. Did your parents tell you whether or not it smells inside?

[Splitrock]

If I was doing a restore, I'd want a good body, no dents at all. I want all the windows and screens, all the doors, and I want the inside skins to all be there. The frame, axles, the floor, tanks, electrical, fixtures, appliances, plumbing, cabinets, and drapes will all be replaced in the restoration. Budget from 14 to 20 thousand above purchase price.

[kevinb]

that is a good price, but more often then not it will require at least a partial floor replacement, which is not a lot of money but it does involve a lot of labor.

[Jeepster]

It does have all the windows and doors. And all interior seems to be in place. Here are a few pics that they sent me.

[Aage]

Jeepster,

From the photos you have posted, that trailer looks to be in relatively good shape. Not to say that you won't want to do lots to it, but more like the "it has good bones" side of the street. But what can not be seen in the photos is also very important.

If you really want to give it an exhaustively thorough going-over, download the "Trailer Inspection Checklist" by clicking here, then print it out, bring a few sharp pencils and complete the whole list.

By the time you have finished that, you will have an very good idea of what does or does not need to be done.

On the plus side, I will also mention that it has what is often considered the preferred (and more rare) layout, the centre bath.

We will be eager to hear your news!

Best of luck, and be sure to get the title, it makes life a lot more simple in most states.

[Jeepster]

Thank you Aage.
The checklist was exactly what I was looking for. I will post my findings when I return this evening. Hopefully I'll be an Airstream owner!

[byamcaravanner]

Jeepster,

The midbath/rear twin models are more sought after than the others... Unless there are dented end segments or missing wing windows, I would say $1500 is a good price.

[Jeepster]

I went to inspect the trailer today. I was impressed with the condition. So now I am the owner of a classic AS!!! I will post a new thread with pictures.

[Aage]

Yay! Congratulations, Jeepster, way to go!

That was fast, but it sounds like you got what you want.

[Viper2]

Congratulations jeepster:
I just moved to Jay Oklahoma and also have refurbished a 73 Soverign myself and I am not that far from you if you need help, give me a email, I'd be glad to lend you a hand or ear full of info.
Happy trails

[m.hony]

1500 is a steal, but perhaps you can haggle...
That is really a good deal no matter what work it needs.