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IrishM · 06-30-2013, 05:46 AM

I'm trying to enjoy my morning cup of tea but there is this object casting a glow, similar to the sun trying to break through the clouds, in the corner of my vision. I could move to another seat, but why quit torturing myself? I need to own my actions because I broke our household Cardinal Rule. The rule states, "there is to be no drinking and eBaying as bad things happen and random crap ends up at the doorstep."

Well what good is a rule if you don't break it once in a while to reinforce it's importance? With four minutes left in a multi-bid and close enough to drive and pick up Airstream auction, I was somewhat convinced the universe was sending me a message that the 1965 Airstream Overlander, off the production line the same year as me in the floor plan I desired, was meant to be mine. However I've since come to find out it wasn't the universe talking, it was the booze. Who knew? I just thought the vodka was made by Tito. I didn't know he'd actually speak to me!

We picked the old gal up yesterday and suffice it to say, the Cardinal Rule was established for exactly this reason. Shes more of a rescue project than a purchase. She may be the same age as me, but I'm certain the glow my skin exudes after exfoliation is a lot easier to achieve than hers will be. Here is a bit of a background for the purchase.

I've wanted an Airstream for the past 10 years. I have room to store her while renovating. I know better than to buy anything like this sight unseen. I love renovating old things and she serves a purpose. We have an 1847 farmhouse which has no guest room. She will be our camper (maybe) and guest room.

I am trying to find humor in this as I'm certain I will need it along the way. In my booze enhanced delirium, I'm certain I envisioned myself as one of the posters on this forum who helped seduce me into ownership. I perused these boards prior and read: "We are so clever, handy, informative and fun. We go to rallies, throw parties, and have our own clubs based on regions or interests. You, too, can be one of us. You just need an Airstream." Well chin, chin, we're in!

The good news is she towed home smoothly and straight. Even passed another AS on the way home. We waved! Told you we're in...

Lily&Me · 06-30-2013, 05:51 AM

Cute story!

Scrub her up, go over her with a fine toothed comb, fix what's broke, then get out there and enjoy her!

It'll be fun.

Maggie

Frank's Trailer Works · 06-30-2013, 05:57 AM

Can we see some photos? Tito induced or straight photos?

Nuvite-F · 06-30-2013, 06:05 AM

Irish,

Welcome to the forums! You'll fit in very well here.

.

eljay · 06-30-2013, 06:44 AM

At least you have "the excuse". Welcome! Looking forward to the photos, the stream of regret, joy of accomplishment.

wahoonc · 06-30-2013, 07:04 AM

Welcome you have paid the admission price... it is the annual "dues" that will get you.

Just wait until you buy Airstream number 2, 3, 4....

Aaron

masseyfarm · 06-30-2013, 08:09 AM

Welcome to the AF.

I think you are taking away too much blame for this happening. @@$%%^ happens. Sometimes you can even blame it on your better half????

Get that camera out and document everything so you can take credit for all the restoration that is bound to occur.

Dave

Protagonist · 06-30-2013, 10:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IrishM

I perused these boards prior and read: "We are so clever, handy, informative and fun. We go to rallies, throw parties, and have our own clubs based on regions or interests. You, too, can be one of us. You just need an Airstream."

Don't sell us short! We're all so much better than even that!

And modest, too!

Sprouty · 06-30-2013, 10:50 AM

Welcome... I know the eBay under the influence problem personally. My folly was model cars while on pain meds but that's an other story. Lets see some pictures.

mgriffrus · 06-30-2013, 12:40 PM

Clearly you were baited, seduced, and then bit by the Aluminitis bug and alcohol played absolutely no part in your purchase. :Wally:

Having purchased a rescue and been neck deep in it here's my advice:

There is absolutely nothing that you can do (okay, if you drink and tow your airstream, maybe) that cannot be repaired. A "gently used" airstream is just that, but a "basket case" or "deer camp" airstream makes it a little easier psychologically to absolutely tear it down and rebuild, especially if you want to modernize or personalize it.

Also, don't be afraid to use it as an aluminum tent. We took ours out when it was just a floor and walls and spent the weekend about five miles from home. You'd be surprised how much it helps to get to where you can not worry about working on it, and just enjoy it as is. We've got about 6,000 miles on ours in the last year and still don't have plumbing yet, but "we're working on it"!

Love your airstream and we'll hopefully see you on the road somewhere!

KeithC · 06-30-2013, 01:06 PM

Welcome to the forum. There is a wealth of info here on how to fix about anything Airstream.

762x51 · 06-30-2013, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IrishM

I just thought the vodka was made by Tito. I didn't know he'd actually speak to me!

Well, what did you expect if Tito were involved? Now if Jameson had been your beverage of choice then all would be OK.....

Welcome!! And looking forward to seeing some photos.

IrishM · 06-30-2013, 09:35 PM

An my kindred spirits. With my head held high,I will trudge forth on this journey!

Now I will admit my husband was a bit taken back when I said maybe we fix up this one and then sell it and buy another on Day 1. Apparently I "have" my AS and it's my job to make it my own.

Aye aye chief with a wink, smile, and a shot of Jameson. I am Irish, after all!

cwf · 06-30-2013, 09:41 PM

Hahaha. Welcome aboard! PlZ include pics of you latest ebay folly

IrishM · 07-09-2013, 06:09 PM

When I walked around the trailer the first time, I noticed these things sticking out by the tires. Since all four tires have this, I thought it to be "normal". My husband thinks otherwise. Any thoughts?

Frank's Trailer Works · 07-09-2013, 06:21 PM

That is the outriggers sawing through. It is generally caused by the shell being loose to the frame and floor. In a nutshell, rotten floor causes this though you will be told it is the axles soon enough.

IrishM · 07-09-2013, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 62overlander

That is the outriggers sawing through. It is generally caused by the shell being loose to the frame and floor. In a nutshell, rotten floor causes this though you will be told it is the axles soon enough.

Well good thing I started tearing out the flooring today. Thanks for your quick reply. Reading Restoring a Dream and feeling a bit better about my purchase in light of what happened to a more experienced ASer!

Frank's Trailer Works · 07-09-2013, 07:09 PM

Did you make a template before you tore out the floor? Will you just guess at the curve?

IrishM · 07-09-2013, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 62overlander

Did you make a template before you tore out the floor? Will you just guess at the curve?

I started pulling up the glued down linoleum tiles to see the actual floor and check for rot. My husband, Mike, is now on board with the project. Here are some more pics exterior pics.