Should I buy?

[Firewoman]

I am totally new to Airstream and I've come across a '68 Airstream international that's been totally restored except needs new plumbing. The asking price is $2,000, from what I've researched, I'm assuming this is a really good price, am I wrong? Any information is greatly appreciated!!

[wkerfoot]

For $2,000 it has not been totally restored. Do you have any pictures?

Bill

Originally Posted by Firewoman

I am totally new to Airstream and I've come across a '68 Airstream international that's been totally restored except needs new plumbing. The asking price is $2,000, from what I've researched, I'm assuming this is a really good price, am I wrong? Any information is greatly appreciated!!

[Melody Ranch]

If its to good to be true.....it isn't. Approach this cautiously...get some other outside observation.

[Gene]

Agreed, the price may be because someone wants to get rid of it fast, but it does make one wonder if it is as good as it sounds. Have you seen it?

Gene

[reinergirl]

No way, No how..... personally this screams of a scam. A restored trailer would have $2000 in the axle/wheel/tire replacement alone!!!! There is no way this trailer is restored. Even doing much of the work yourself, a restored trailer of this era would be $25000. AND this trailer has the corning windows (only used in 3 years) which are extremely rare and $$$$$. If you do decide to go forward know that you are probably facing a full monte restoration...Pictures would really help...

[Firewoman]

Originally Posted by Firewoman

I am totally new to Airstream and I've come across a '68 Airstream international that's been totally restored except needs new plumbing. The asking price is $2,000, from what I've researched, I'm assuming this is a really good price, am I wrong? Any information is greatly appreciated!!

As far as being totally restored, I shouldnt have said that, I have not seen it, I should be getting the pics tomorrow. I spoke with the seller over the phone, he said he bought it from the previous owner for $2,500 and it had been totally gutted with the exception of some appliances and also bad flooring. The current owner stated he has put several thousand dollars into it then he and his wife lost their jobs and house so they just need the money.

[Firewoman]

I apoligize, I've looked at so many campers for sale, this Airstream has been partially restored!!!

[jsutro]

Look in the Classified Ad section and find an experienced AS surveyor who lives near the unit for sale. You need an independent assessment of its condition before you proceed.

Realize that $2000 doesn't buy you much of an AS these days, excepting only a great deal MORE money and hard work. No matter how much the sellers need the money, they would be asking for more if it were worth it.

Price vs. Condition - Airstream Values

A forty year old AS is going to have a lot of issues unless it has been continuously and carefully maintained. It you don't mind a gutted out shell with foggy windows, soft floors, leaks, and worn-out axles, then $2000 is going to buy you your very own Airstream trailer. But don't expect to take it on the road for awhile. It might even have to come home on a trailer. jim

[BIGED52]

Originally Posted by Firewoman

I apoligize, I've looked at so many campers for sale, this Airstream has been partially restored!!!

See if the seller can give you a list of all the work that they have put into the trailer. Several thousand dollars worth of restore/repair should have a very detailed list. Look here on the forums for an experienced inspector. There are many of them and hopefully one close to your "find"! They will help you check it out and see what you are really getting into before you spend the money. If the seller won't let you have an inspector look it over with you before you buy it.... Then RUN! Ed

[ROBERT CROSS]

FW,

Be very careful.... "restored" on a vintage AS is an ongoing process.

If the bug has bitten you, scratch slowly.

Good luck in your search!!!

Bob

[Wingeezer]

My past experience in restoring/buying "classic" sports cars is that different people have a very different interpretation of what the word "restored" or even "partially restored" means, especially when they are on the selling end of the deal.

In my earlier days of car buying, I once bought a restored Triumph and found its floor had been restored with aluminum foil pie plates and black goop! An expensive lesson learned. I don't now how a seller could live with themselves pawning off such a deception, but no doubt it happens every day. I was too embarrassed at my own stupidity to try going back to the seller in this case and just resigned myself to spending many hours and many $$ to do the job properly - money I never got back when i eventually sold the car, but at least I sold it with a clear conscience!

Of course, you still could be getting a good deal at $2000, but may be taking on a project that requires a whole lot more work than you want to undertake to put it in good safe & reliable shape.

As others have said - If you are not familiar with what to look for, I'd strongly recommend trying to find someone who is, in order to help you in your decision.


Brian