'64 Bambi II restoration

[yukionna]

Originally Posted by BambiII'64

Wow, I'm so excited to find all this Bambi II advice that I'm getting lightheaded! I need all the help I can get!!! I have a laundry list of questions but my immediate concern is I think I've lost my VIN# paperwork (If I ever had it). Is it on the Bambi anywhere?

The VIN number is located on a small plate attached to the outside of the trailer next to the door underneath the "Bambi II" name. I attached a photo of what my plate looks like to give you an example of what one looks like.

[BambiII'64]

That's what I thought, thanks! My mechanic said he couldn't find it, so I started thinking maybe that was the production number or something. Now we can get her registered and inspected. What a relief.
Molly

[yukionna]

Originally Posted by BambiII'64

That's what I thought, thanks! My mechanic said he couldn't find it, so I started thinking maybe that was the production number or something. Now we can get her registered and inspected. What a relief.
Molly

Inspected? What's that all about? Do you need to have RV trailers inspected in NY?

[myboyburt]

Originally Posted by yukionna

Inspected? What's that all about? Do you need to have RV trailers inspected in NY?

RVs must be inspected every year in New Hampshire. I'm actually surprised Massachusetts doesn't require it too.

[BambiII'64]

Yup, NY too from what I understand.

[mwinter]

Originally Posted by yukionna

We are very excited to have recently purchased a 1964 Bambi II and have begun our labor of love. Here is a "as found" photo.

Hi there,

I'm just starting my research on Airstreams. I went and looked at some new ones today and I think the Bambi or the Bambi special edition (is this a Safari?) is about my size. I don't need anything over 19'. Can you help me understand the differences between the new Bambi and the old ones? I noticed on the new ones that the wood looked like plastic. Do the vintage models have real wood in them? Also, how reliable are the vintage models? Any information is much appreciated.

Thanks,

Myra Winter

[yukionna]

Originally Posted by mwinter

Can you help me understand the differences between the new Bambi and the old ones? I noticed on the new ones that the wood looked like plastic. Do the vintage models have real wood in them? Also, how reliable are the vintage models?

There are many differences between the old and the new trailers:

1. Weight
   A new Bambi weighs about 4,500 pounds where as a Bambi II is about 1,500 pounds. This is a factor that needs to be considered when shopping for a tow vehicle or if you are considering using an existing tow vehicle. The tow vehicles with higher towing capacity cost more than those that don't have the higher towing capacity.
2. Gray tank
   The new trailer has a tank for gray water to drain into whereas the older trailer doesn't.
3. A/C
   New has it and the older ones typically don't.
4. Awnings
   The new ones are easier to setup than the old ones.
5. Water tank
   The new one has a larger fresh water tank -- 20 gallons vs. 15 gallons.
6. Interior cabinets
   The new trailers use composite materials and sometimes contact paper whereas the older models used real wood.
7. Exterior skin
   The aluminum panels are covered with a plasticote material to protect the finish. This plasticote material lasts an average of 5 - 7 years before it begins to detiorate in the sun. Some people have had better luck with it and it does last longer if you wax it twice a year. The older trailers used a different type of aluminum panel which enables it to shine up like a mirror when buffed. After the initial buffing is completed, to retain the mirror shine, it must be touched up and protected annually.
8. Trailer width
   The new trailers run about 8' 6" wide and the Bambi II is 7' 6" wide.
9. Those are the major differences that jump right out at me.

With regards to your question on reliability, it's like anything else you purchase new, the newer item tends to be more reliable than the older item. On the other hand, I would say our '64 trailer is now as reliable as a new trailer as we have gone through it and tested, upgraded, repaired and/or replaced every system. If you had asked me that question the day we pulled the trailer out of the woods, I would have answered differently.

[Mikus517]

Don't get por-15 on your skin. Semi permanent! Por-15 hardens quickly. That's why the small cans are good. Good stuff

[AWCHIEF]

Yikes, this thread has risen from the dead. Good restoration. It had some usefull info for all vintage owners.