1957 Airstream

[Mitch54]

Hi Guys,

Im a newbie, so please excuse me if I am posting this in the wrong area. I purchased a 1970 Airstream last year in which the skin was dented on all panels, banana wraps were dented and the floor needed replaced, one of my friends asked if they could buy it and I let it go for what I had in it. Well today the opportunity became available to own a 1957 Airstream Caravanner 26' foot 13 panel airstream. The skin is beautiful and doesn't even have a dent, the only exterior problem is one of the door side windows is missing and some of the windows are cracked. The inside is all original with all parts but the whole and I mean whole floor would need to be replaced. They are asking 1000.00 for it. I don't know if it is possible to be towed because of the age of the axels and the flat tires. What do you guys think? Would you buy it? I would have to gut the whole inside where it seems half of the natural world has taken over and seems to be a bit overwhelming, but I know it can be done. I am thinking more in the price range of 700 because of the unknowns that could arise. I very much doubt the electrical works at all. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks Guys

[Becky B.]

If you are up for a very large project, this would probably be a great candidate. If you can get him down to $700, all the better. But be aware, you will probably have to do a shell-off restoration. The project could cost big bucks (anywhere between $4,000-8,000 being cautious), but a '57 with a great shell is a desirable trailer. You would probably have to put new tires on it to pull it home, but the axle would probably be ok for the trip....you would get one of those later. You won't have to reinvent the wheel....there are many total rehabs that are documented here on the forum. Many people are willing to give you advise on a project like this. My trailer was infested by all rodents in the North East corner of Illinois, but after 2 1/2 years of my "hobby", it's back together & being used. YOU CAN DO IT!!

[Skatiero]

Hmmm, you should let it go. Now give me the guy's number. just kidding. If you are VERY handy and experienced and have lots to spend, then you should go for it! 1000 seems fair. If you decide not to get it, really do give me his number.

[Mitch54]

[Mitch54]

[Mitch54]

[Mitch54]

[Mitch54]

Above are some of the pictures I took last night of it, let me know what you guys think.

[Lance M]

What are you waiting for? You aren't going to find a decent 13 panel Airstream for less money. I'm sure that trailer would easily sell for $3-4k around here.

[Shacksman]

You buy it and I'll double your money right now!

[m.hony]

You should have bought it yesterday or last week!

[ALANSD]

Grab that puppy and hang on. You may be able tow it if the tires are holding air. Buy some fix a flat and drive slow. I towed mine home 90 miles on badly cracked old rubber. Did just fine. Never went over 30 though.

[Skatiero]

If I knew where it was I'd have cash and be on his doorstep waiting for him!!!

[Skatiero]

But I would not try to tow on those tires at all. Flat bed or switch out the wheels.

[pbearsailor]

It's a 22 foot Caravanner made about 30 trailers before mine.

Big project like mine was and a few hundred dollars initially won't make any difference as you'll need to spend a lot more bringing it back.

Read my thread linked below to see what is ahead of you. Worth it.

Cheers,
Steve

[Becky B.]

Did you go get it yet, Mitch????


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[Mitch54]

If the floor is totally gone and rotten would it be safe to haul it home? And not break apart? The belly looks good I haven't gotten it yet, also how hard will it be to find a replacement window housing top street side front for the 1957?

[m.hony]

It will be fine on a flat bed-

[2Taylors]

That trailer is worth a lot more than $1,000 in today's market, even if a total project. Better grab it.

[Mitch54]

I wish a flat bed would be able to get it, everyone back here says it's to high to put on a flat bed tow truck.