Used Airstream-what do I need to look for when purchasing.

[PDtravels]

Hello, We're new (today) to this forum and am hoping to get some advice on what to look for when buying a used Airstream. We are looking at a 2014 International 23cb, we've never owned an Airstream but have fallen in love with them, any advice on what to look out for would be great.

Thank you,
Donna

[mpsgolf]

Hi and welcome!

We bought a used 2006 25’ Safari. After using and loving it for several years we upgraded to a new 28’ International.

So given our experience one important factor is the configuration of the interior. Hiw will you use it on a daily basis? Is the arrangement compatible with this? In using the 25’ for a few years we found several key things that made us move to he 28’:

- bed was turned parallel to aisle so both of us had storage by bed
- couch separate from dinette so we didnt have to put the table down every time we wanted to sit down
- more interior storage space

[godber]

Hi Donna,

Good luck! We just spent the first night in our used purchase (2016 International Signature). We purchased out of state somewhat hastily so we couldn't do good due diligence. I'll tell you what we did wrong or missed. That might be helpful.

First, we did not connect it to power or water and test those system. You should, if you can. The first time we connected city water ... after purchasing it ... water poured out the back of the toilet due to freeze damage. It then became apparent that there were a number of things that had freeze damage. The toilet was a reasonable fix, cost me a bit in tools and parts because I had to buy from the dealer.

Check that the screen door latches and the deadbolt on the door latches. I am still assessing the state of our doors. The screen door is clearly out of whack. You might be able to live with door problems ... then again, you may not. I assume they are ungodly expensive to fix.

- Austin

PS - A friend of mine gave me one great piece of advice when it comes to RVing ... "Expect chaos". That was definitely good advice.

[Woosch]

Look out for soft areas in the flooring. Stains on vinyl could be a sign of mold. Your nose is one of your best tools. Bad smells can indicate problems. There is a list somewhere on the forum for inspectors to use that might be useful to you during your search.
Good luck!

[GMFL]

Originally Posted by PDtravels

Hello, We're new (today) to this forum and am hoping to get some advice on what to look for when buying a used Airstream. We are looking at a 2014 International 23cb, we've never owned an Airstream but have fallen in love with them, any advice on what to look out for would be great.

Thank you,
Donna

I own this same trailer PM me your contact info and o will give you a call, if you like.
Thanks
Ronnie

[guskmg]

What to look for?
LEAK damage
LEAK damage
LEAK damage
Make sure the original seems are all still leak proof and reseal everything every five (5) years. Late model trailers are sealed with Adseal on the roof and seal tape on all lap joints below.
Invest in a high quality moisture meter and find suspect places to periodically test for moisture. Then inspect all other not so obvious areas. So far mine has not had any signs of leaks after 13 years.
guskmg

[Engstroms]

I found the book, How to Buy an Airstream by C. S. Michael helpful when we purchased our 2007 27FB Classic 14 months ago.

[PDtravels]

Thank you, we are just looking at it today. any advice is helpful!