This is what I did to my 76 Argosy 26 foot and really enjoyed it. It looks great, runs great, is great.
INTERIOR-
1) Removed the entire interior except the tub and refrigerator. (all you need is a screw driver and a drill)
2) Thoroughly cleaned the interior walls and floors
3) Examined the existing floor and patched one 3"x 1'surface area
by adding wood epoxy to create smooth area for floor tiles.
4) New carpet and padding in rear.
5) New floor tile in front.
6) Replaced all luan as the existing laminating glue was deteriorating.
7) New wallpaper on all originally wallpapered luan surfaces.
9) Added large pantry in center closet.
10) Resurfaced the bathroom sink and tub.
11) Waxed the walls(Future floor wax).
12) Cleaned the interior of heater and replaced heat ducts.
13) New kitchen counter top.
14) New kitchen faucets.
15) New curtains.
16) New smoke/gas detector.
17) New overhead lights as needed.
18) New stove top and oven.
19) New stereo.
20) New latches as needed.
21) New battery (2003).
22) Mounted microwave in pantry.
23) Added a safe and bolted it to floor.
EXTERIOR-
1) New gears in antenna.
2) New seals in all windows, access doors, and vents
3) New fresh water filler cap.
4) Painted entire exterior.
5) New running lights.
6) New lenses on break lights.
7) New heavier duty axels with torsion suspension (a must on a trailor of this age).
8) New wheel hub, bearings and larger safer brakes.
9) New Shocks.
10) New tires (2003).
11) New window and door screens.
12) New propane hoses.
13) Updated Propane tanks.
14) New levels.
15) Awning Cleaned
Anything I could not get at the local RV dealer, I got from Andy at
http://www.inlandrv.com/
I got this from someone who needs credit, I just don't know who, sorry. (I made slight changes to include Argosy.)
The Restored term is often misused. Most Airstreams you find are in a state of "undergoing restoration".
Truly Restored means:
Interior-
The interior layout is original, or is typical of the period and Airstream design (no computer desk instead of sofas, no wet bars, moon roofs or kitty doors).
Interior components are aesthetically original (may have improved function or internals).
Interior components and appliances have been cleaned, repaired and restored to a serviceable condition with no damage or degradation, using appropriate materials and methods.
Unique features, appliances & fixtures to that model and year should still be present, (LPG Lamps, Service Control Centers, Byam Burners and Panel Ray heaters are examples).
Replacements or additions to appliances and fixtures should have been done with correct period units, or with modern units installed in such a way they blend into the layout.
Cabinetry, shrouds and linings should be original or replaced using period materials and methods.
Cabinetry finish should be applied as per the original (painted, varnished or oiled wood). Interior wall linings should be as per original - green/tan paint ('40's), Zolatone Paint ('52+) or Vinyl lining ('70's).
Upholstery and soft-goods should be clean good condition and in period cloth or neutral/earth tones.
Any subfloor rot has been removed and repaired or replaced. Floor Covering should be clean and solid and from appropriate materials. Carpeting, Linoleum, or vinyl tiles are the norm.
The plumbing system should be complete with no leaks. The water system should supply water from an onboard tank through either a hand pump, demand pump or compressor as appropriate. The street water system should supply water to all the appropriate fixtures.
Wiring should be in a safe condition. Any modifications should be to code. Electrical fixtures should be original or period reproductions.
Potable water tanks should have been cleaned & disinfected. Any new tanks should be installed in an unobtrusive manner.
Toilet should be original or equivalent replacement (porcelain for porcelain, etc.)
Any new black or gray water tanks should be installed in an unobtrusive manner.
Exterior-
Any major dents, scrapes and punctures have been removed or repaired, minor shallow dents are OK (small hail dents or bumps).
The exterior skin has been polished (Argosy's are painted) within the last few years. It does not have to be clear-coated. The panel edge seams and openings have bean neatly sealed with Parbond, Vulkem or similar sealant.
Belly Skin is complete and secure.
The original window weather-stripping is tight, or has been correctly replaced.
Window openers all work. All screens are present & in good condition.
Door works smoothly, hinge is in good condition, handles, locks & latches are in good working order, and are original or appropriate replacements.
Roof vent mechanisms are working originals or appropriate looking replacements.
Running gear (brakes, tires, bearings, shocks, springs) are in good working order and condition. Should have records showing servicing dates within the last 4 years. Wheels (rims) are appropriate with hubcaps (baby moon) or pie-plate hubcaps or spoked aluminum for the later models. It is OK to have the original split rim wheels replaced. It is OK to have original hydraulic brakes converted to electric brakes. It is preferable to keep the original hydraulic hardware in place.
LPG tanks have OPD's and are polished aluminum or silver painted steel.
All exterior vent fittings are original or appropriate replacements.
Exterior lamps are working originals or newer historical reproductions. Trailer wiring works, and the wire harness is in good condition.
All exterior placards & nameplates should be present and have been repainted if necessary.
Tongue and bumper shouldn't have any exposed rust and should be painted silver(white or brown for Argosy's).
Any attached awnings are ZipDee or A&E, and are in good working order. Extra points for original or reproduction free-standing pole/staked awnings.
Step should be original, painted silver, and in good working condition. (Matches paint of Argosy)
Linear Mode
