Hail from Austin, TX

[mlts22]

New member, was recommended an Airstream by multiple I know and trust, so trying to do my homework.

My initial reaction: Sticker shock. $16,000 for "Brand X", $50k+ for a new Airstream. However, I have yet to hear a single person say anything but praise about their AS, while with other TTs, some people complain loudly that they ended up with a lemon.

Now to figure out four main questions:

1: Is it possible to get a used AS + pay for repairs for about $16-18k? I know with other used TTs, one can easily pay over the price of a new one by having to replaced rotted materials, replumb, rewire, and other items. Or am I deluded realistically, and should wait until I can pony up the $60k for a ticket to entry?

2: When did AS models start having showers and hot water heaters (for hot showers)? This will help narrow the range of what I'm looking for.

3: Are there places that one can take an AS to be overhauled/rebuilt in Texas? I'd like to just take it to a pro who knows what they are doing and have it done right.

4: Is there a way to replace the lock cylinders on the door latch and storage compartments with more pick resistant ones? Here in this part of Texas, the crooks have wised up to lock picking which means they don't get noticed as often, and insurance tends to be tough on people claiming theft if there is no obvious signs of forced entry.

[ddstech]

1. Yes, depends on year.
2. My 1958 has a shower and hot water heater.
3. Not sure, but probably.
4. I don't see why not. Everything can be modified to be better then new.
5. Get one.

[ddstech]

Forgot one thing....

6. Welcome!

[Aage]

Howdy and welcome to airforums.com, mlts22! You came to the right place for good advice on anything you want to know about Airstream trailers.

I think you can buy a good '80s or even perhaps '90s AS (Airstream) for the budget you want to work with. Surprisingly, you will see that the largest ones are going to be the best buys for you in those years; the smaller ones are in higher demand.

You'll quickly get used to our shorthand (TT= Travel Trailer, TV=Tow vehicle, refer= refridgerator and so on).

Just remember that we are photo-hungry: if you are looking at a trailer, please put up a photo to help us see what you do.

All the best!

Aage

[mlts22]

Thanks. I'm lucky in the fact that even though my TV is a half-ton, it can tow up to 9200 pounds. This seems to cover most AS TTs, even the longer ones, as I use the TT's GVWR instead of its dry weight for what I'm towing.