1973 Excella 500 Land Yacht

[ChrisCarr]

I am new to the forum and have found the site very informative. I have been looking for a trailer for a while and have settled on restoring an airstream. I "think" it may be cheaper than purchasing a new trailer. I have found a 1973 Excell land yacht. The shell is in excellent condition, except for a few dents. Belly pan looks good. All the windows are present, except they have the tinting between the panels peeling. The interior is dated and dirty. The floor seems to be OK. One propane tank is present and the other is in the yard (ranch) some where. Hopefully they will find it. It has all four aluminum wheels. All acess doors are present. I don't think any of the appliance are working. It is missing several interior lights and covers. They have no door keys to the trailer. I am in the process of getting information on a lost/abandoned title prior to purchasing. The current owners have had the trailer for over 15 years and they never had a title. Does anyone know the process of obtaing a abandoned title, lost title, etc for Arizona. Any information would be appreciated.

[moosetags]

Welcome to the Forums. We're glad to have you with us.

Regarding the title issue, I would require the present owner to obtain a current valid title. If he had had the trailer for 15 years he should be able to do this. Depending on the state, obtaining a title can be a real hassle. If the current owner wants to sell this trailer other than for scrap, he needs to go through the title thing.

Brian

[azflycaster]

Welcome to the forums!
I would start with this form: http://mvd.azdot.gov/mvd/FormsandPub...rmInfoKey=1316
I would also get a notarized statement and bill of sale from the previous owner. Make sure you have their AZ drivers license number on the document. At some point you will need to bring the trailer to the DMV office to have the VIN verified.

It sounds like the trailer has not moved much in the last 15 years. Make sure you do a good inspection of the basics. Check for rear end separation (common problem of longer 70's units) and expect to need new axles. A critical area to check the floor at is along the rear where the shell meets the floor.

[ChrisCarr]

Thanks for the replies. I spoke with the owner and he is going to get the title for the trailer. I did a rough inspection of the trailer, but having little experience it seems OK. From what I can gather the inside is a complete restoration. The outside needs some work. I could not see any cracks in the frame. This AS is a center bath. As for the condition it does not seem to bad for the purchase price of $400.00. In the worst case scenario I will have a nice mobile work shop. Richard if your available I would like to get your opinions when I get it to Phoenix. I currently live in Surprise, AZ. Thanks