Remodel photos, help finding fixtures, and redoing nameplates.

[Shehanigans]

We bought a '94 Classic Limited 34' about a month ago. We had originally wanted something vintage but since we need to live in it immediately we had a hard time finding something ready to go. We decided on the '94 Classic since it was in "ready-to-go" condition. Since it's all in perfect shape and usable that left us a little room for making it "home" since we are now full-timers. The 90's aesthetic didn't appeal to me (which is part of the reason we wanted a vintage airstream.) and having two kids, two dogs and a cat we needed functionality above all else. We made the living room more functional by creating a u-shaped sofa that converts into a bed rather than a small sofa that folds down. Storage baskets underneath. I'm still working on the back cushions. We created bunks in the rear twin bedroom leaving more floor space. We took out the dinette and replaced it with a bar/homeschool area that takes up half the space and is twice as functional with more storage. We still have little touches to go. Curtains, paint to cover the floral pattern we uncovered when we removed the bread box to make room for vintage canisters, and lighting. Next the carpet around the toilet will have to go. With a little boy who sometimes misses the toilet I don't think it will last long. I'd read for years that it cost so much to remodel but we've not spent much at all. But maybe that's because we opted for newer airstream. Either way, I've really enjoyed it.

One thing I have had trouble finding is the lighting. We have to have 12 volt lights right? So, where does one find those? I know where to find ones like we currently have but are there any more aesthetically pleasing options? Can certain fixtures be converted to use only when hooked to power therefore allowing us to use 120v lights? Of course, I think our easiest option is to just leave them but if there is another option I'd like to find it. Above the area we created for our boys I'd like to have a tract or spotlights of some sort so that the space will be lighted evenly.

Part of me feels very guilty for not keeping the airstream original. At this time in our "storm chasing career" and for the sake of functionality for our family we need to do certain things. Since we are at it, we may as well make it pretty.

Since I'm already posting has anyone had any luck refurbishing the name plates on late models? I believe they are plastic. Could I buff them down and repaint? Anyone have an example of a finish product posted somewhere? I'm not opposed to replacing them but all ice found are vintage remakes. Nothing more current. The "Airstream" and the "limited" are looking rough.

I'm off to track down the elusive key code for my deadbolt. In my 6 years of research before taking the plunge imto ownership and automatic full-timing nothing has been more helpful than AirForums. Although I've been mostly silent I'm most appreciative

I added a really cute Lego set my son just built to the photos just for fun!

[Shehanigans]

So many typos. Eh.

[Shehanigans]

I forgot to say, my dad and I did all of this ourselves. He's also really enjoyed learning how to curve to an airstreams requirement. He's quite handy!

[vswingfield]

Nice looking Airstream!

If you look at the top if this photo, you can see that mine has wooden valances over the top of the curtains. I have a couple of 120v AC clip-on lights that I found at WalMart. They are aimed up at the ceiling for indirect light. There are AC outlets in front of the side windows and the wires run behind the curtains. Inexpensive and no hassle.



If you use the search function in the blue bar above, you will find lots of discussions about lighting. There are 12v lights available from Amazon and eBay, as well as from online RV and marine dealers.

[sandlapper]

Can't help you with your search, but do wish you miles of smiles in your Alumaliner.

Nice work. And thank goodness for a handy dad.

John

[Shehanigans]

Originally Posted by vswingfield

Nice looking Airstream!

If you look at the top if this photo, you can see that mine has wooden valances over the top of the curtains. I have a couple of 120v AC clip-on lights that I found at WalMart. They are aimed up at the ceiling for indirect light. There are AC outlets in front of the side windows and the wires run behind the curtains. Inexpensive and no hassle.

Neat. And goodness! I love that sofa fabric!

[arodriguez60]

I have found that 12 volt light fixtures at marine stores are a lot nicer. I have gotten some nice ones on ebay.

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by Shehanigans

Neat. And goodness! I love that sofa fabric!

I do too. It was that way when I bought it. It's in great condition. Obviously newer fabric than the dinette.

I just wish the trailer was as tidy as the photo today.

[timmaah]

You could try led light strips. 12v fixtures seem to be pricey and ugly. The light strips you can hide behind valances and such. Also have remotes and can change color at will.

Amazon.com: LEDwholesalers 16.4ft RGB Color Changing Kit with LED Flexible Strip, Controller with 44-button Remote and Power Supply, 2034RGB+3315+3215: Musical Instruments



I like your desk area.
You can check out what we did to our '99 to bring it a bit more current.
What | WatsonsWander
Airstream interior tour | WatsonsWander

[timmaah]

And what did you do with your roadside flip out table?

[sandlapper]

And how 'bout the street side flip up table??

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by timmaah

And what did you do with your roadside flip out table?

Originally Posted by sandlapper

And how 'bout the street side flip up table??

Aren't those the same? (Roadside and street side?)

[sandlapper]

Yep, darn it, I meant curb side Thanks for looking out for me.

[timmaah]

Damn.. and I was aiming for curbside and screwed it up.

Ours doesn't have one, so we share the streetside table and my wife has to move everytime I need to get up.

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by sandlapper

Yep, darn it, I meant curb side Thanks for looking out for me.

Originally Posted by timmaah

Damn.. and I was aiming for curbside and screwed it up.

Ours doesn't have one, so we share the streetside table and my wife has to move everytime I need to get up.

Wait, you both put down the wrong side?

[sandlapper]

Well darn, the table beside the door. Thanks

[Shehanigans]

Originally Posted by sandlapper

And how 'bout the street side flip up table??

Originally Posted by timmaah

And what did you do with your roadside flip out table?

I have everything we took out. That was one of my questions. What to do with it all. We also have the dinette, spice rack, bread box and couch.

[Shehanigans]

Originally Posted by timmaah

You could try led light strips. 12v fixtures seem to be pricey and ugly. The light strips you can hide behind valances and such. Also have remotes and can change color at will.

Amazon.com: LEDwholesalers 16.4ft RGB Color Changing Kit with LED Flexible Strip, Controller with 44-button Remote and Power Supply, 2034RGB+3315+3215: Musical Instruments

I like your desk area.
You can check out what we did to our '99 to bring it a bit more current.
What | WatsonsWander
Airstream interior tour | WatsonsWander

Thank you! Wow, yours is super fun. Do you ever actually have dance parties? How stable is that? Fun!

[timzog]

For lights you might try Imtra. http://www.imtra.com/ They have marine lighting and lots of LED options. They have a clearance section which always had good deals. Marine stuff tends to be expensive but I think it is the way to go for an Airstream that will last a long time. Have fun.
Tim