'64 Overlander, Needs Complete Overhaul... Worth It???

[bechand0128]

It's probably the only Airstream in our small town, and the guy wants $1800, but will take $1500 for it. It's in really bad shape, and I'm not sure it's worth it, especially w/ us being first timers. Any insight would be great.

Exterior:
- door does not stay closed
- almost every window is broken
- small dings in a number of places, one larger dent on an upper corner
- lights, etc are not original
- electrics in hitch do not work
- panel that covers water pump, plumbing etc, (above back bumper) is missing
- bumper & hitch are rusted (useable, but rusted)
- from the wheels back, the bottom (aluminum/steel skin/belly pan?) is hanging off
- all 4 tires need to be replaced
- has 1 of 2 propane tanks
- owner claims the door section doesn't separate - there are no window panes, but otherwise, it looks like it should

Interior:
- original fridge/stove supposably work (mint green, too)
- stove had incomplete burner assembly
- all walls have been primed, but not painted (not sure whats under primer? zolatone?)
- doors separating main room from bedroom, and then into bath are missing
- all cabinets have been covered in some nasty wallpaper - frames could be salvaged, but doors/hinges would need to be replaced, and all would need re-finishing
- formica is chipped, would need to be replaced
- some lights work, others do not - original lights are still there
- heater & A/C need to be replaced
- copper piping was not connected to anything (completly re-do plumbing)
- floor was covered w/ self stick vinyl, and was obvious there was some damage to flooring under, not sure to what extent (my husband thinks the entire plywood floor would need to be replaced, and then, obviously, vinyl/carpet above)
- mattresses/curtains are non-existant
- bathroom is filthy dirty, but there doesn't appear to be any cracks in sink or tub... didn't check toilet
- has original diamond pleated ceiling in bedroom area
- two metal bars roll out next to right side of stove - what are these? they are bent into the hallway
- original plastic drawers inside cabinets appear mostly intact

We're pretty handy in terms of plumbing, electrical work, and interior refinishing, but we're uncertain about the rest. I'm concerned that for the vast amount of work (just above a complete gutting, LOL), it's overpriced. We'd appreciate any advice, help, etc.

Thanks,

Melissa

[overlander63]

Everything you have described can be fixed, but some of it is klind of expensive. The windows would probably be the cheapest thing to fix, as the glass is just standard stuff you can get cut at most hardware and glass places.
With the grocery list you have given, and the fact that this will be your first rehab experience, you would probably be better off trying to find one in batter shape a little further from home. If you just have to have this one, maybe make him an offer a lot lower. If he declines, give him your phone number, and get his. If he hasn't sold it for his asking price in a reasonable time, maybe he will reconsider.

[bechand0128]

I think we're going to try to go by tomorrow and take pictures, so we can think more about this... After looking at pictures of other '64 Overlanders, it might not be as bad as we think? LOL

Will post pictures tomorrow to get your opinion.

Any idea where I can find info about replacing the floor? That I think it our biggest concern - that and the belly pan thing hanging off at the back. We've got the friends and the tools to do nearly everything, but not sure about actually separating (???) the trailer to get to the floor.

Melissa

[azflycaster]

If you look at the price vs condition document at http://www.vintageairstream.com/rr_t...condition.html a 60's Overlander is "as found" condition is worth between $1000 and $1800. I guess it depends on how much work (money) you want to put into the trailer. The following is copied from the document:

The definition of an "as found" is a trailer having some of the following:

• Larger or numerous dents, punctures or scrapes.
• Missing some of the exterior vents, doors or windows.
• Interior furnishings and features less than 75% original.
• Many of the original appliances such as furnace, water heater, stove and refrigerator are missing.
• The electrical, LPG and water systems aren't functional.
• The tires, including the spare, are cracked from UV damage, and the condition of the axle components are unknown
• External features such as utility connections and servicing ports are damaged or missing.
• The subfloor has soft spots or rot damage.
• The cabinetry or interior walls have been painted over in other than original finishes.
• The trailer hasn't been used or maintained in many years.
• Modifications may have been done to the layout or systems.

[AYRSTRM2]

Hmm, almost basket case. I think that if you are very handy, have or can buy a lot of tools, and have someplace that you can not only store the coach, but work on it too, hopefully covered but not necessarily, then you should pay about $1000.

Keep in mind this is NOT a bargain. Even free this isn't much of a bargain. Like they said, it's fixable, as long as the shell is not bent, but it will take a lot of time and money. When you're done, it will be beautiful, but you're looking at a good couple of months of hard work and long hours before it's ready to go. And, I'd say, about $5000 in supplies and systems. Probably more.

If you're up for a challenge, then go for it. If you're looking to get an Airstream easy and cheap, pass. This isn't it.

John