Our First Purchase

[OneSmallStep]

Hey y'all,

My wife and I are looking into getting our first Airstream. Were in our mid 20's and really enjoy camping, and really want to do a renovation on one.

Was wondering what some of the major things to inspect when purchasing would be?

What are some of the more desirable models and features? We currently have our eye on a 1962 Tradewind. Does anybody know any specific information about that model?

Any insight is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[Bubba L]

A vintage 1962 would be a neat trailer. If in original condition, expect a lot of work to make it road worthy and campable. You can go to the Forums and read a lot of threads on the 62s. Also Airstream Archives/Pictures will show you completed units. Welcome to the trailerhood and good luck. Bubba

[Bubba L]

Also, you could contact one of the Airstream Inspectors near how who would take a look with you. Bubba

[Lumatic]

A 62 Tradewind is very desirable, regardless of condition. It probably won't stay on the market long. A good title is probably worth half the price of the trailer.

You can pretty much write off all the original appliances. Frame rust and integrity would be a major factor,

Don't look at a restoration as an investment. It is a labor of love. A good guess would be you will be dropping 15K +/-. You can buy a 62 with a lot of the work done for you for that price if you are patient.

[TG Twinkie]

There is no grey water tank in a '62. They were installed in '74 and later models.

[Lumatic]

Originally Posted by TG Twinkie

There is no grey water tank in a '62. They were installed in '74 and later models.

True, but that should not scare you off. a grey tank can be retrofitted. Also, there is still a lot of camping where you can drain the grey water, which is basically wash water, on the ground. Where you can't, or don't want to, get a portable tank on wheels aka blueboy, which can also be used for trips to the dump station for black water when you don't want to hitch up. That's what I do.