Quote:
Originally Posted by Road Warrier
-- snip -- Are we crazy to consider a used trailer that old?
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You are not crazy, but proceed with extreme caution.
A moisture meter is your friend. Airstream trailers are constructed from many panels and punctured with many holes for rivets. It not properly maintained, they leak.
A well cared for coach is a joy. A neglected coach is a full reno project.
Do your research first. Folks flip these things with all the good and bad that can mean. Folks also lovingly care for them since new. You want one that has been stored inside and used/maintained annually, or one that has been renovated to better than new, or one that you are willing to enjoy as is, or one you can make your own.
If you are a DIY person/couple - you can deal with all. If you have a pay to get it done life style, find a perfect coach - either renovated, maintained, or new.
AS has gone through ups and downs. Quality in design and manufacture has varried with the health and management changes in the company. Some of the older trailers are likely as good or better than recent new models. However, old is always a risk.
In the boat world, you want to find a good deal, you look for the one that someone has worked for years to make perfect at no expense spared and then finds the wild blue yonder is not for them. Not too many ASs come to the market under those circumstances, but there can be good deals. The new option cost is high, but as an older person with retirement facing you, it is time to move forward now.
Consider your options and make the choice that is best for your lifestyle. We purchased new with an extended warranty and we support our local dealer's service department. It's time to do our traveling now, so we moved forward to make it happen, while we still have the health to go for it. Not everyone has that option. Some folks do it with an aluminum shell, because that is what they can afford while they DIY their renovation. Others just buy an SOB. Do what works for you, but do it.
Travel safe - Pat