Is there any differences in 2017/2018 30’ Classic?

[Bigventure]

I was wondering is there any differences between 2017/2018 Classics?

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Yes, there are differences between the 2017 / 2018 versions. If you dig around a bit, you will find some long threads on the changes to the Firefly and Alde system integration. There also is a boost heater on the hot water in the 2018. Pretty much all 2018's got "upgraded" converters. It's not real clear just how much of a change that really is.

Options wise, there are some changes between years. The 2017 had very few options (everything but the backup camera was stock). The 2018 moved some of the stuff back into the "optional" category. If you order both years with "everything" there is no difference in that respect. If you ordered a base model 2017 it would have more on it than a base model 2018.

Bob

[Bigventure]

Uncle Bob your the only one who keeps up on this stuff.

Only one response.

Really it doesn’t sound like a lot of changes in this model then.

[ajwbarnard]

One little minor change I noticed was that some people with older Classics and I don't know for sure if was 2017, talked about the handle of the pantry that protruded and could dent the refrigerator door. The 2018 has a recessed push button handle on the pantry that eliminates that risk.

[paiceman]

Originally Posted by Bigventure

Uncle Bob your the only one who keeps up on this stuff.

Only one response.

Really it doesn’t sound like a lot of changes in this model then.

There is a major change in the Alde system as well as the operation of same. The 2017 was a stand alone system, operating within itself to provide both heat and hot water. The 2018 has a supplemental pre-heater for hot water. In addition the Firefly system now operates as the main control feature of the 2018 Alde with a back up 2017 version of the 3010 system under the kitchen sink.

Those are the main changes I'd be considering if I were in the market. Seems there were some "start-up" issues with the Alde communicating with the Firefly, but those seem to have been corrected with some new firmware updates.

Bud

[twinkie2]

We have an 18 and another change is that the dinette is a bit longer to fit taller people. They also did away with the backlights on USB ports in bedroom. As to options in the 18’s. For the 30’ anyway, it was drawers instead of standard oven and solar.

[twinkie2]

Oh, and the 18’s have a more powerful tongue jack motor. We have automatic/motorized stabilizers too...not sure if that was in previous years.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

The 2017's came factory stock with electric stabilizer jacks and the tongue jack. The solar package was standard. If you wanted drawers instead of a microwave you had to ask for it to be built that way. If you are trying to compare prices or something like that, this all matters. As far as the actual trailer ... no real impact.

Not real sure about the dinette change. The table is motorized. It will go higher than you would ever want to set it on a 2017. The comfortable setting (even if you are 6' 4") is a couple inches down from "max".

Bob

[Bigventure]

This was a list of new features on Airstreams web site for 2017 Classics
Lighter Cognac Maple décor
Alde Hydronic Heating System for silent heating
Heated bath towel bar and shower floor
More comfortable sleeping on dinette with added length
Touch panel electronic control system
Enhanced custom-tuned Polk audio system and 200W subwoofer
Rear view camera and wireless monitor now standard
Repositioned privacy curtains
Latching table stabilizer leg
ZipDee power awning now standard and includes power cutoff feature
Updated Aluminum LP tank cover with better clearance
4 external pre-wired solar ports (3 on the roof, 1 near the hitch)
Added more USB ports

[Bigventure]

And this is 2018 Classic 30
Continuous hot water feature with the addition of Alde flow
Updated electronics featuring complete control over A/C & heating systems
New larger, color touchscreen multiplex control pad
Redesigned pantry & trunk compartment lids (30RB)
Emergency manual override switches for air conditioning system
Upgraded electrical system including a multi-stage converter and an improved battery disconnect feature
Combined inverter outlets eliminate need for secondary outlet
Dedicated HDMI wall plugs and wiring to articulating TVs
“Handcrafted in Jackson Center, Ohio” badge on screen door

[james.mileur]

Originally Posted by twinkie2

Oh, and the 18’s have a more powerful tongue jack motor. We have automatic/motorized stabilizers too...not sure if that was in previous years.

Automatic?

[ajwbarnard]

That hand crafted in Jackson Center badge was easy to miss. I had to look for it.

[Bigventure]

Do the 2017/18 still have heat pumps? Or are they AC only?

[ajwbarnard]

They have heat pumps on 2018.

[Pete B55]

Originally Posted by Bigventure

And this is 2018 Classic 30
Continuous hot water feature with the addition of Alde flow
Updated electronics featuring complete control over A/C & heating systems
New larger, color touchscreen multiplex control pad
Redesigned pantry & trunk compartment lids (30RB)
Emergency manual override switches for air conditioning system
Upgraded electrical system including a multi-stage converter and an improved battery disconnect feature
Combined inverter outlets eliminate need for secondary outlet
Dedicated HDMI wall plugs and wiring to articulating TVs
“Handcrafted in Jackson Center, Ohio” badge on screen door

Another difference I learned was an added bracket on the adjustable bed(s) to secure the mattress when is being raised

[twinkie2]

Originally Posted by james.mileur

Automatic?

Well, automatic in the sense that you open a locked compartment outside and press the button to lower front then the other button for the back...as opposed to the crank or electric drill method.