Trying to buy a New Trailer

[kingfisher24]

So I keep trying....In March we started talking with a dealer in central texas...I guess i am picky or weird, or both but since buying my 2008 25FB and traveling in it for 2 years, I of course have formed some opinions and some wants for a new trailer...different trailer if I were to make the move.

We have come to the conclusion that we want to continue fultiming in an Airstream...would not even consider SOB's....but we have decided (at least the better half has) that more room would make the travel more....more enjoyable.

Along the way...at the begining I did not care for the bedroom arrangement of my 25FB...it consumed the entire front of the trailer...would not accomodate two humans and two pups...so I modified it so as it became more like the seating in the rear of the trailer...a arrangement where i removed the bed and build a semi half moon type arrangement that is condusive to a lounge arrangement and comfortable to sleep. also provided for a small desk for computer and working area.

additionally I replaced the factory batteries with 2 8d batteries, a 2000w inverter, 2 95W solar panels a charge controller and remote for the inverter.

also removed the vinyl floor and carpet and replaced with pergo wood flooring.....all works great is neat.....

dealer in central texas agreed to take my unit in trade at asort of fair price...

We have dedided that an International 28 is what we want...but of course the way they come is not what we want. I guess we could settle on everything....there is no option for the vinyl floor that comes with the international; we would settle for the taupe upgrade for interior.

I want to get rid of the factory batteries and install under the couch..there is plenty of room....three 8d batteries , a 2000w inverter and a 100w battery charger.

the dealer in central texas was agreeable to make these modifications as an after market item; however we could just not reach any agreement to purchase ...he would have to order the unit as he did not have any inventory in the international line.

During this time I had contacted another dealer in the northeast that keeps a great inventory.....they told me they did not want my trade ...flat...did not want it because of the modifications....

so now i call this dealer back, ...to try to buy an international 28 that he has in stock ....but he won't make the modifications....and basically did not want to deal at all....

so....i am running out of options....there are not may ways to buy an airstream

[kevin242]

Sell your 2008 privately, then go looking at a new model with cash in hand and try to get the modifications you want, or simply order the new AS from the factory with no flooring, batteries, inverter, and maybe an unfishished corner for a desk or whatever (the factory won't be thrilled either and may not accommodate you!).

Dealers absolutely HATE non-factory renovations simply because it's a wild guess for them as to how long it's going to sit on their lot until the right buyer comes along, and how much the modifications will affect the overall value.

Good luck.

[pmclemore]

Psst. Buy USED. Sell your FB (never understood the attraction, anyway). We had a 25 Safari, traveled well - to AK and damned near everywhere else, too. Bought the 31' Limited. Big. Outfitted. Saved a bundle. If I wanted to, I could sell it and buy a 34. Or a 28. Used.

Pat