Introduction

[Grimm]

Thanks for the membership.
I just picked up this trailer, 1986 sovereign 31'.
My first airstream, but not my first RV, or conversion.
My last one was an MCI bus conversion.
I towed this airstream trailer home with my 7.3 diesel, couldn't even feel it behind me, it towed perfect.
This trailer sat outside with the door busted open abandoned for at least 5 years.
This is how I got it with all that's in it.
I'm thinking of gutting it and making a panamerica. I'm thinking it may be worth more stock all original, but I want to make it mine. I'll try to attach some pictures.

[Bearstream01]

Welcome Grimm! Cool that you have the skill set to give it new life! Cant wait to see what you do with it!

[overlander64]

Greetings Grimm!


Welcome to the Forums and the world of Vintage Airstream ownership!!

Originally Posted by Grimm

Thanks for the membership.
I just picked up this trailer, 1986 sovereign 31'.
My first airstream, but not my first RV, or conversion.
My last one was an MCI bus conversion.
I towed this airstream trailer home with my 7.3 diesel, couldn't even feel it behind me, it towed perfect.
This trailer sat outside with the door busted open abandoned for at least 5 years.
This is how I got it with all that's in it.
I'm thinking of gutting it and making a panamerica. I'm thinking it may be worth more stock all original, but I want to make it mine. I'll try to attach some pictures.

Given the length of time that the rig sat outside with the door open to the elements and animals, I am certain that you have quite a project ahead of you. The Sovereign 31 gives you quite a large canvas to work with to achieve a very comfortable traveling vehicle. Your idea of creating a version of a Panamerica is intriguing, but keep in mind that the 1986 is still a narrow body 8-foot wide trailer, and the frames were still comparatively lightly built as the transition to heavier duty tow vehicles that would allow heavier trailers had just begun to get into full swing. I am sure that modifying the chassis wouldn't be a limiting factor for you given your background, but the narrow body might be.


I would also suggest that you might consider joining the Wally Byam Caravan Club International (WBCCI)/Airstream Club International -- the club dedicated to the owners of Airstream products with Units in all of the 50 States as well as the Provinces of Canada and several other countries. The activities of these Units help to insure that owners get full use and enjoyment of their Airstreams. In addition there are Intra-Clubs or clubs within the clubs for the shared interests of Airstreamers and one that I would suggest is the Vintage Airstream Club, a group dedicated to owners of Airstream product RVs that are 25 years old or older where the sharing of information regarding restoration/maintenance/updating systems is often discussed.


Good luck with your project!


Kevin

[Belegedhel]

Welcome to the Forums!

I wouldn't sweat about keeping an '80's vintage trailer "original." Do with it as you desire. If you do a good job, then the next owner will see value in it.