Is it road worthy.

[dennydwk]

I am looking at a 1973 Airstream and it has been parked and not used for a few years. Before this the trailer was not used on the road for quite a few years, but parked and lived in. I want to use this on the road and wonder if it would be worth buying. The owner has had a small heater inside to protect the interior while not in use. I wonder if this is workable for what I need? I am worried about the running gear.

[mandolindave]

Don't bother worrying about the running gear, just accept that you need to replace tires, brakes and bearings. The propane fridge is probably ready to fail, as is the water heater. The original charger will cook your batteries, and the battery will most likely need to be replaced. Check for rotted floor and signs of leaks. But you didn't give us enough info. How much does he want for it? Are you handy? How much can you spend? Almost all used campers are money pits.
It's worth it if you camp a lot or if you love Airstreams.

[adonh]

Based on the information you provided I would have to say no it is not road ready. The running gear is just one of the things that will need to be looked at and either repaired or replaced. You still have to consider, water lines, holding tank, frame separation, flooring rot, fixtures and appliances, AC/furnace and electrical. Good luck. Pictures would help.

[Colin H]

All of the above applies, however don't bother replacing the bearings & brakes as it will need axles anyway. Towing it home shouldn't be an issue as long as you check the bearings to make sure they're ok. We have discussed this & more, numerous times on The Vintage Airstream Podcast | Vintage Trailer Restoration .

Colin

[wahoonc]

Short Answer... No

At bare minimum just to move it you will probably need tires, brakes and the bearing repacked. Then there is a whole laundry list of things that will need to be checked.

Aaron