New to Airstream Community

[nipper]

Hello Everyone

I am new to the Airstream community and would really appreciate some advice. I am looking to purchase a 1969 31 foot Sovereign Twin Airstream trailer.
It is in good condition but I'm told needs new tires and a once over on the plumbing. A/C works and there is a new fridge to instal that is included.

Could anyone give me some advice as to what to look for and what I may need to do to this trailer. I know this is hard to say without seeing it. All items are original. Only two owners. Trailer was passed down to the daughter of the original owner. The original owners bought it new in 1969 and were extremely picky with the trailer.
Any advise regarding Air streams are appreciated . I have always wanted to own one since I saw them going down the road. I plan on going through the plumbing and electrical. Also would replace all four tires.

Thanks for your help and time.

Looking forward to being a New Airstream Owner.

Thank you all for answering.......

[webspinner]

It could be a gem or it could be hiding some inevitable results of aging. Trailers that old will generally need new tires and axles in order to be safe and smooth on the road. These age even with impeccable maintenance.

There is a trailer inspection checklist to follow when looking at a trailer (I'll see if I can find the link). Also, look on the panel on the right for the notification about AirForums volunteer Airstream inspectors. Maybe there is someone nearby with experience who could help you look the trailer over.

A few rules of thumb: Don't assume anything works unless you see it function. This goes for the new fridge too. Also, does the new fridge fit exactly, or will you have to modify cabinets? Are there any soft spots in the floor. Leaks can develop over time, even if the interior is kept spanking clean. Water damage to the subfloor show up as soft spots. Poke around the edges of the floor with an ice pick or small awl.

I'm sure others will have more to add.

[webspinner]

I found the trailer inspection checklist:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f138/trailer-inspection-checklist-43294.html

[nairnchyz]

Welcome to the forums from Manitoba,
You may have found a gem.
You have been given the link to the inspection sheets / guide so make use of them and as has been suggested attempt to find an inspector in your area. His /her knowledge will be invaluable in helping you reach a decision in whether to purchase or not.
Was this coach kept under cover by the PO's since 1969? If it was that would certainly be a positive thing.
Once you have determined what all may have to be done to this coach and the costs associated to complete the repairs, etc, you have to reach a decision if you are willing and able to add that amount of money over and above the purchase price?
Always remember - this is not the only coach for sale and if you end up having to pass on it something else will show up down the road.
Good luck and complete all the home work
Bob

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by nipper

Hello Everyone

I am new to the Airstream community and would really appreciate some advice. I am looking to purchase a 1969 31 foot Sovereign Twin Airstream trailer.
It is in good condition but I'm told needs new tires and a once over on the plumbing. A/C works and there is a new fridge to instal that is included.

Could anyone give me some advice as to what to look for and what I may need to do to this trailer. I know this is hard to say without seeing it. All items are original. Only two owners. Trailer was passed down to the daughter of the original owner. The original owners bought it new in 1969 and were extremely picky with the trailer.
Any advise regarding Air streams are appreciated . I have always wanted to own one since I saw them going down the road. I plan on going through the plumbing and electrical. Also would replace all four tires.

Thanks for your help and time.

Looking forward to being a New Airstream Owner.

Thank you all for answering.......

The following article will help you check out the running gear.

The Dura-Torque Axle

Andy

[Colin H]

Originally Posted by nipper

Hello Everyone

I am new to the Airstream community and would really appreciate some advice. I am looking to purchase a 1969 31 foot Sovereign Twin Airstream trailer.
It is in good condition but I'm told needs new tires and a once over on the plumbing. A/C works and there is a new fridge to instal that is included.

Could anyone give me some advice as to what to look for and what I may need to do to this trailer. I know this is hard to say without seeing it. All items are original. Only two owners. Trailer was passed down to the daughter of the original owner. The original owners bought it new in 1969 and were extremely picky with the trailer.
Any advise regarding Air streams are appreciated . I have always wanted to own one since I saw them going down the road. I plan on going through the plumbing and electrical. Also would replace all four tires.

Thanks for your help and time.

Looking forward to being a New Airstream Owner.

Thank you all for answering.......

Hi Nipper,
Welcome to the Forums & congrats on your recent acquisition As others have said, things are likely lurking beneath the surface, so check very carefully. The most critical thing to start with is to determine the starting point for your project, which for most, is floor structural floor rot, rust & axles. You will find a wealth of info here & on The Vintage Airstream Podcast | Vintage Trailer Restoration .
Good luck with your project,
Colin

[nipper]

Thank you to all that have posted and provided me with this valuable information I really appreciate it.

SJW

[captmatt]

Hi!

We found a vintage AS Sovereign that was literally garage kept... perfect! just $10,000 more than we had. If I knew what I know now I would have floated a loan it would have been cheaper! But we also saw many AS that were just not worth what they were asking. Don't be in too much of a rush if you can help it. Learn a little here with friends. I have saved serious money over the years and learned lots (even before I had an AS) by lurking here. Our trailer replaces a Sailboat and it is a very happy transition!