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New to 'Streamers in the UK
Hi one and all, Mary & Chuck here, in Dorset, UK. I am not sure if I have done this correctly - new to all this - but here goes
We are about to join the ‘Streamers! Well when it gets here that is. I have just bought a 1983 310 MH; and when the final instalment arrives with the vendor its then all systems go!– to the ship – Hurricanes permitting…
I think I am going to be fortunate with the 310 as it looks very good on photo and the chap selling it appears very genuine, so hopefully not too many repairs! We were hoping to “do” a new years rally with it, but that going to be a bit of a rush, so the old VanRoyce will have to struggle on a bit longer.
I am a little disappointed though with what little information on Airstream MH’s is out there on the web. I am having difficulty in finding out basics like models, production figures, dimensions, layouts, technical data, hints and tips to name a few. But I did find the GM P-30 Chassis Service Manual – on a GMC MH site, very useful (330 odd pages of it to print out!)
My intentions are to keep all the Airstream 120VAC (I Assume that is the correct USA voltage - you hear of 110 - 115 - even 123VAC over here); although 230VAC will be added with a ring main for some domestics or entertainment TV etc. Our camping for the past 40 odd years has been a mixture of motor homes and trailer caravans and is by choice very basic. We use many non-electric sites, particularly in summer in the UK – AC not wanted here! The use of 120VAC makes sense when using inverters. Logic dictates that there is more capacity to boost from 12vdc to 120VAC than would be available if boosting up to European 230VAC. I am going to fit a transformer for the 230 to 120 any way although we have still yet to find a company that will incorporate the 50-60HZ conversion, at a sensible price as well in it. I gather Microwave Ovens die after running at the wrong frequency after a while, hence the need.
The Solar Panel array will also be a priority, as I hate generators, with a passion, noisy and smelly things! so roll on self sufficiency, eh! Chaps?
I have also toyed with the idea of the secondary overdrive gearbox modification, any one done that? A gas (LPG) conversion is also on the cards, but I would like to hear of any engine transplants, like using the Range Rover 4.2 litre engine and ZF22 auto box. All this because our “beloved government” takes more than its fair share on fuel! (Sorry wont go there).
As soon as she arrives I will post up some photos, and expand on the modifications and customisations as I progress (or not!).
Chuck
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