The #1 BEST Improvement You've Made

[Barretta2]

Originally Posted by John&Vicki

I did a search and didn't find a thread on this topic. Most of us make improvements to our Airstreams, some more successful than others. I think it would be really interesting to hear about the Hall of Fame improvements - the single #1 best thing that you've done to improve your AS.

Mine is easy and I've posted here about it before. I removed the gaucho, which was uncomfortable as a couch and uncomfortable as a bed, and replaced it with a two recliner unit that I stole from my home theater. Tremendous increase in functionality and comfort.

What's yours, the #1 improvement you've made to your rig?

Cheers,
John

Congratulations--looks great. You've done exactly what I want to do in my 23 FC!! Did you do the work yourself? Did you encounter any surprises in the process? Any approximation of what it would cost--I would have to buy the two recliners. I would love to do the work myself but I'm not very mechanical, nor is my husband.

[ShyAnn]

I replaced the two in my 1994 34' Excella with these. Better heat rejection and peace of mind in case of hail or just general weathering:

http://maximskylights.com/products/airstream-skylights/

[mutcth]

The best? Changing to LED lighting and adding solar (even our puny 95W panel.) It lets us use our trailer the way we want - boondocking in state parks for 3-4 days without worry or a generator.

Tom

[K3ors]

Originally Posted by Phoenix

I've made lots of minor repairs and tweaks to our 19' Bambi, since we bought it new in 2005. But, the most important improvement was switching to 16" wheels and Michelin XPS Ribs.

The first five years, we towed our Bambi about 15,000 miles; and we constantly worried about tire failures (3 of 5 ST tires failed). Since switching to XPS Ribs in 2011, we have towed the Bambi another 45,000 miles with absolutely no tire problems.

Just bought A 2005 Bambi and have made 2 short trip weekends with her. Love it. Did learn to check weather report and if it might rain one needs to close roof vents. Need I say more?


Wondered what tweaks and improvements you might have made.

[Redleger]

What year is you AS? Do you have your water tank under those seats?

[Redleger]

Ok to reply to your question, we have a 69 Overlander and we just had new Dometic frig/freezer installed replacing the original unit. We take it on its maiden voyage next weekend.

[TxDave]

Replaced the green shag carpeting with Allure plank flooring. HUGE improvement, and easy to install.

[mandolindave]

The fantastic fan, Sunglasses ( rock guard ) , AGMs, 3 stage charger, porcelain toilet, new pump, furnace …..oh never mind…… just check out the photo

[SuzyHomemakr]

Just being to design my own environment, and have it be soooo nice to be in, is what floats my boat. Though if I had to name the one thing that I did that I get the most joy out of, it's the "wine cellar". I spent way too much time getting this right, but looking back... totally worth it! When I slide that bad boy out to get a beverage for a guest, they can't fail to be impressed. The curve on the cabinet was strip built with aspen, just like they used to make canoes with.

The 3 cubby holes on the right have also been quite functional. His, hers, and electronics on top. We always have a place to put sunglasses, cell phones, keys, etc. Electronics cubby has it's own power, and USB taps. They're quite handy, but still not right at the door where a casual glance would reveal their contents.

Vast storage under the armrest, as well. I like this so much, I'm doing the entire galley rebuild in a similar fashion!

[rmkrum]

Very nicely done!


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[John&Vicki]

Wow guys! I was starting to think I was about done with my "home" improvements but there are so many GREAT ideas here. Something tells me this will be an open ended project - which I have no objection to - I love this stuff!

Thanks for sharing!

Cheers,
John

[nwclassic]

Electrical upgrade -- Three stage charger/converter, interior LEDs, four golf cart batteries, two roof mount solar panels and monitor instrumentation. Lots of others, but that's our best.

[Cannonball]

Memory foam topper for the factory mattress.


Cannonball, Deep in the Heart of Texas!

WBCCI #4387, Air #84080

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[SteveSueMac]

Originally Posted by SuzyHomemakr

Just being to design my own environment, and have it be soooo nice to be in, is what floats my boat. Though if I had to name the one thing that I did that I get the most joy out of, it's the "wine cellar". I spent way too much time getting this right, but looking back... totally worth it! When I slide that bad boy out to get a beverage for a guest, they can't fail to be impressed. The curve on the cabinet was strip built with aspen, just like they used to make canoes with.



The 3 cubby holes on the right have also been quite functional. His, hers, and electronics on top. We always have a place to put sunglasses, cell phones, keys, etc. Electronics cubby has it's own power, and USB taps. They're quite handy, but still not right at the door where a casual glance would reveal their contents.



Vast storage under the armrest, as well. I like this so much, I'm doing the entire galley rebuild in a similar fashion!

That's unbearably cool!!!! Well well done!!!

[rodsterinfl]

I am amazed and blown away at some of the neat things you peeps have done. WOW- especially the design things. I am challenged at doing anything that is not a "kit" per se. I have lots of ideas but...

Any who, well done.

I have played around with lots of changes and one thing as #1 is tough.

Probably the new couch is my favorite- FOR NOW. It is comfortable.

[lindaebrewer]

Such great results. Inspirational.

[Sbb]

With permission copied a mod of all shelvs in the wardrobe, no nails or screws used, make 6 good deep shelves and still room fot hanging shirts. Best mod ever.

[SteveSueMac]

Originally Posted by Sbb

With permission copied a mod of all shelvs in the wardrobe, no nails or screws used, make 6 good deep shelves and still room fot hanging shirts. Best mod ever.

Pics???? 😀

[Air83]

Upgraded from 30 to 50 amp and installed a 2nd a/c and LED Lights inside and out.

[K3ors]

Being new it wouldn't let me reply to all the information you sent me. Thank you very much for the suggestions. You guys have sure been busy. It's a fun unit and we love ours. Happy camping and a sincere thank you again!