Many of the same basic questions are being asked repeatedly and that's very understandable considering the rapid growth and popularity of this forum. The redunancy is however making it ever more difficult to find specific info or advice on a given topic. There are many variables depending on year and model but some things are applicable to all vintage AS TT's. I think it would be beneficial to find some common ground to express opinions upon.
I'm thinking we might be able to slim down the bulging archives if we all hypothetically take an average trailer and refurbish only the basic items from the ground up.
Since AS has been building trailers for 60+ years in lengths mainly from 16' to 34' let's split it somewhere near the middle and say we all magicaly acquire a 1970 25' tandem axle Tradewind.......WAIT, don't start disagreeing yet.....it's my thread and I get to pick the trailer.
It's in average condition as described on vintageairstream's
.]PRICE vs CONDITION The floor is solid and there are no leaks.
Lets also assume that the average AS owner is not a millionaire and we're not going to be hiring out any of the refurb so we need to keep it cost effective.
This is what I would do, based on hands on experience and knowledge I have gained from this forum:
TIRES : Goodyear Marathon ST225/75R15 load range D
Wheels: If split-rim, rust pitted or damaged, replace with new 2600# rated trailer wheels.
Axles: Check the info on Inland RV's
DURA TORQUE AXLES and replace if necessary.
Brakes: Absolutely neccessary IMHO that they work properly. This I might hire out to a pro since I am not a skilled mechanic.
Floor covering : A matter of personal choice but I'll shoot for the Pergo, lightweight, attractive and durable.
Skin - wash, shine and wax: My trailer is for function more than show but I want it look nice so I'm going to wash it with Armor All car wash, shine it with Walbernize and wax it with
LIQUID GLASS . I'll save the expensive and labor intensive polishing for later when I'm better acquainted with my new trailer..
Gaskets-door, window and vent covers: Replace all. Small investment for long term gain.
Interior cleaning: Clean walls and ceiling with Simple Green and protect with Future Floor Acrylic.
Interior hardware: Relace any broken items with whatever does the job but shop for original replacements.
These are just my personal preferences for getting the trailer in safe and presentable condition and are not intended as a beginner's guide to all things Airstream. I'd like to keep this thread simple. I'm not even gonna venture into proper tow vehicles since that topic has been very well covered but still open to debate.
What are you going to do differently or additionaly with your hypothetical '70 Tradewind to get started in the wonderful world of Airstreaming and why?
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