Question re: Rust on Axels/Stabalizer Jacks

[BlubirdFlies]

We are looking at a 2005 Safari to purchase. I noticed rust on the axles and stabilizer jacks. This is our first RV/trailer of any kind so we are just not sure if this is normal accumulation of rust for an 11 year old trailer or this is a red flag for a potentially serious problem. Any thoughts on this rust (see pics below)? Thanks!

[PaulnGina]

I'd say that's pretty normal. Doesn't appear to be very bad, compared to some I've seen.

If you are able, crawl under there, brush/prep the metal, and paint it with a good paint or brush-on under coat.


PaulnGina
1987 Avion 34W
1995 Ford F250 7.3L PowerStroke

"I don't mean to sound degrading but with a face like that you got nothing to laugh about" Rod Stewart (Faces)

[AtomicNo13]

If you're going to use it outside your garage it will show signs of wear.... It's a natural patina!
Quit worrying and enjoy it!

[Eric 28]

Our trailer is almost 14 years old. And looks about the same.

[Eric 28]

Our Safari 28'SO was made in April of 2003. It's not a 2004.

[BlubirdFlies]

Thanks very much, Eric28, Atomic and PaulnGina. I appreciate your input. Very helpful.

I have one other question, but this one is not related to rust. The counter top in the kitchen is rotted along the wall edge. It looks like water would roll off the laminate counter and get trapped between the wall and the wood under laminate. Is this a common problem with Airstreams? We are hoping this is just water rot from being trapped as I said and not the result of an exterior leak or other major problem. Any red flags with what I've described? Any thoughts on this would be helpful. Thanks again!

[AtomicNo13]

Haven't heard if that....
I would dig deeper for unseen damage and the cause!
Look at the seal around the vent exhaust, the window arc etc.

[polarlyse]

The BAL jacks are only held on by a few self tapping screws. Take them off. Take them apart and sand blast the rusted parts. Paint and re-assemble. It's a good weekend job and they'll look great.

[Eric 28]

I'm in the same boat as AtomicNo13. I have never seen any thing like that also. I sure would look into that some more. Good luck.

[BlubirdFlies]

How about that ridged sheet metal under there. Is that standard on Airstreams, or is that something that would've been later added? Thanks!

[Lyrekjack]

Use por-15 paint on them it will encapsulate the rust.