1966 Globe Trotter Twin -- AKA La Casita

[Tbullock]

This is our first post, and first trailer. For years, we looked at travel trailers, and a strong preference for Airstreams evolved. Given that we are restoring a 1971 Formosa Ketch, we really didn't want to begin another project until the boat is back in the water (notice, I didn't say finished -- a sail boat is never finished). However, we learned of an Airstream in "good condition" near our boat yard so we decided to take a peak. We were amazed that the trailer was in such incredible condition. It had only one owner who always kept it in a covered area when it wasn't in use. He and his late wife had even taken it to Alaska from Portland, OR twice -- and camped for 3 months each time. Most of the trailer is original, except for some appliances and plumbing (stove, refer, toilet and air conditioner). The upholstery is not original, but the gaucho couch and twin frames as well as cabinetry are. We intend to keep it the way we bought it until we have a chance to get to know it. So far it seems quite comfortable for two retirees who want go camping when we are not sailing.

We have enjoyed the forum, and have found it so helpful. Thank all of you that find time to contribute and answer questions.

[RM66caravel]

Welcome and news flash Airstreams are only finished when the have a pepsi label on them and can be dispensed from a machine! 66 is a good year. You will need to check your Axle if it has not been replaced because the are good for 10 to 15 years and on the 66 the spindle can break (replacing a bit of skin on the caravel) they were made of hardened steel and they keep hardening and will become brittle and break at the bearing race. Axles are not that expensive and are easy to replace. Dexter torcflex. again welcome and enjoy the adventure!
Cliff

[Protagonist]

Originally Posted by Tbullock

(notice, I didn't say finished -- a sail boat is never finished)

That is a universal truth that applies equally well to Airstreams. No Airstream is ever finished, either. Even after you're done rebuilding and remodeling, it will continue to evolve as you use it and think of new ways to make it better.

[Tbullock]

So the fun begins. La Casita is at the dealership in Gladstone, OR for a safety check. $3000 later, we check out pretty good. Similar to a car or truck -- take it to the dealer, and they always recommend $2000+ in repairs (when will we learn?). We need to find an independent in OR, or near La Quinta, CA who is exceptionally good and trusted. Recommendations would be most appreciated. BTW, we asked the dealer to inspect the axle, and it checked out fine. What we thought was a leak from the refrigerator and/or fresh water tank turned out to be a failed seal in the roof that leaked like a sieve during a very heavy rain fall in Portland. We are pretty good at DIY on boats, and will have to learn to be that good on our A/S.

BTW -- is a propane heater really necessary? When needed or practical, we can always deploy the electric heater when we are hooked up. As an alternative there's the oven and gas light for cool/cold nights, which are rare. Then there are always down comforters. Our thought is that we could repurpose the space, but I'm interested in what others have to say on this issue.....Our camping and boon docking would typically be in CA during the winter months, which is usually not warm enough for us to fire up the furnace in our home, then we plan to be around Portland, OR during the summer months.





Still loving the Forum!