Would you Purchase a Preowned Classic with an Actibrake Controller

[KJRitchie]

I'm going to inspect a 2008 25FB Classic. I know the two recalls have not been performed on the trailer. If I were to purchase this trailer and even if the Actibrake recall test comes up negative should I work in the deal to have the Dexter unit installed since Actibrake is no longer in business and the unit could fail in the near future?

Do the new Classics have Dexter units?

Has anyone seen a new Classic with the Dexter unit to see how cables are routed etc compared to the Actibrake unit on older Classics?

Kelvin

[Bruce B]

I know this is a little off subject to your specific question but my advice applies to your possible purchase anyway.

Always have an inspection done before you purchase!!!!!
The inspection should be performed by an expert who has not got a vested interest in the sale!!!
I know this is not always an easy thing to arrange when it comes to a trailer but remember, this is a used, rather expensive mechanical thing without mama Airstream to help when things go wrong, if it breaks, you own it.
Just saying,
Bruce

[SteveH]

Don't know what years had the Actibrake, or if it was an option, but we've had an '01, an '04, and now a '10 Classic, and none have had the disc brakes.

And about an '08 25FB, I'd also be concerned about water damage to the floor around the door area. Have a friend that had that problem with one, and I've heard from others it's a common problem with that model.

[Jammer]

Originally Posted by KJRitchie

I'm going to inspect a 2008 25FB Classic. I know the two recalls have not been performed on the trailer. If I were to purchase this trailer and even if the Actibrake recall test comes up negative should I work in the deal to have the Dexter unit installed since Actibrake is no longer in business and the unit could fail in the near future?

I would try to get either a Dexter or Carlisle unit installed as part of the deal, if you trust the seller to do the work. It's not so much that Actibrake is no longer in business as it is that the units are prone to failure.

Do the new Classics have Dexter units?

No, the factory switched back to electric brakes. The Jackson Center service center will perform a hydraulic conversion on any trailer, though. I understand that they're using Dexter.

I have the electric brakes, and they work well enough that I don't consider a conversion to hydraulic to be a high priority. A few Airstreamers who tow extensively in the mountains find that there's a huge difference.

Has anyone seen a new Classic with the Dexter unit to see how cables are routed etc compared to the Actibrake unit on older Classics?

I haven't, but it is my understanding that the installation and routing of the lines between the body and the caliper has been completely reworked to better secure the lines and prevent damage by the wheel and tire.

[ROBERT CROSS]

"I have the electric brakes, and they work well enough that I don't consider a conversion to hydraulic to be a high priority. A few Airstreamers who tow extensively in the mountains find that there's a huge difference."

X2!!

Considered the disc up-grade several years ago. JC stopped using them, haven't thought about it since.

If it 'aint broke, fix it 'til it is.

Bob

[JBinKC]

Would I purchase a pre-owned Classic? Oh, absolutely! Concerning the Classic electrical brakes, mine have been excellent over three years and 40,000 miles. I've had brake recall work done twice in that time but at no expense because Airstream has stood behind the brakes. Incidentally, I hardly touch the brakes coming down steep inclines because my truck's transmission keeps the rig from accelerating without over-revving the engine. I believe that extends the life of the brakes and it makes driving in the mountains much more relaxed, trailer electrical brakes or not.

[KJRitchie]

I purchased a 2008 Classic 25FB yesterday and had the dealer replace the Actibrake with a Dexter as part of the deal. The Actibrake passed the recall test but I insisted it be replaced for my piece of mind. They also replaced the brake hoses as per the other Classic recall.

Thanks for everyone's help.

Kelvin