Newly joined ignoramus!

[o.short@btcl]

Hi Everyone

I have always been fascinated by Airstreams - quite rare in Britain - but have just found one close to home in run-down condition....and it is available [South Wales area]!

It is an Ambassador [1977?], and the most obvious fault is that the visible part of the chassis outrigger leading to the rear bumper is literally crumbling at the touch.

I have just spent the whole afternoon going around the internet looking for information, and eventually found you. As there is such a huge number of sites and such a vast amount of information, I am hoping that someone will be able to point me in the right direction and save me a lot of research time by answering the following questions.

Is there a site, person or publication [on sale of course, if so] that will tell me what to look for in assessing the condition generally of old Airstreams, but PARTICULARLY OF THE CHASSIS?

Any experts out there are quite welcome to provide the information personally, but I cannot expect anyone to do this, but PLEASE someone give me some pointers to help me possibly rescue this old beauty from a sad end.

Many thanks in advance.

Owen.

[Melody Ranch]

Welcome! Look in the Forem areas and you shall find your answers...and with pictures too. You can also find your info with the search icon located in the blue menue bar above. Keep us informed...send pictures and we can help better.

[overlander63]

Owen, that era Airstream has a history of rear frame droop/sag/separation. If you drop the belly pan (pretty easy, just drill out the rivets), you will probably see the frame rusted or cracked in two. You can get C channel, and weld the frame back together if it isn't too bad.

[Goin camping]

Hi Owen and welcome.

If you run "rear end sag" or "rear end seperation" on the search function you will get more words than are in War and Peace only here you get pictures. What to look for and how to fix are all right there.

Of course if you post a few pics you will get a ton of responses and how to info with out having to use the search function.

Good luck,

[Foiled Again]

Try "Full Monte" which means removing the shell from the frame and restoring or even replacing the frame. Also look for "Stainless steel frame" where an Argosy owner is building a new frame. You might also try "elephant ear" - patches to the shell where a frame on repair was done.

Welcome, and be prepared for brain overload. There is a lot of help and information here.

Paula Ford

[Airhog1]

Welcome from beautiful Arkansas...you gonna love it here!

G

[o.short@btcl]

Thanks everyone for your encourgement and speedy replies. Much to research and think about. If I go ahead I'll keep you informed.

O.

[Moonstruck]

Hi Owen,
Airstream spotting in the UK! A rare find! It wasn't so long ago I was an ignoramus myself! Some say.....
However, would be more than happy to provide what assistance I can.
Email me.
Marc