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acwdgw · 08-02-2002, 08:56 AM

WANTED: Any information from anyone who has one of these fifth-wheels. We know that Airstream made these in 1989 but are not sure if any other years. We saw one at the Airstream factory and for those who don't believe it is true, we are attaching a photo. Even if you don't want to sell yours, please reply if you know how many were made or if you have any other info.

Thanks,
The Whitts

thenewkid64 · 08-10-2002, 09:09 AM

I am aware that they 5th wheels were made into the mid 90's the early models where well made, but I have heard horror stories about the end of the production run models being troublesome. I belive thay were not made in Jackson Center, but in another Thor plant and labled Airstream.

83Excella · 08-10-2002, 09:31 AM

This link has some info about the Integrity (AS 5th wheel) as well as the squarestreams, I looked at pictures of one on ebay and it did not look/resemble anything like an AS product inside or out, just another 5W. I think if AS made an aluminum 5W based on the classic look it would be very competitive against other 5W's but it would be pricey to suite as well.

www.calldon.com/air.htm

John

acwdgw · 08-12-2002, 10:10 AM

Thanks for your replies, but the Integrity is not the model I was looking for. I saw an Integrity in the mid-90's and it did not seem to have the quality and look of an Airstream [and it was fiberglass and not aluminum.] I was hoping that with all the wealth of Airstream knowledge out there, that I would find someone on this site who knew about the aluminum Airstream fifthwheel. I am sure that I don't travel as much as many of you, and I have seen one of these twice [three times if I count the photo too!]

But the good news is that through another query, I did receive a reply. I saw that a couple in Tennessee posted on Airstream Central website that they had one of these models so I emailed them directly and this is what they said.

Only 50 aluminum Airstream fifthwheels were built at Jackson Center in 1989. [Dianna: I am assuming that they were priced above the typical fifthwheel and could not compete so they did not continue production.]
Very roomy with a tub and a shower.
Solid oak cabinetry/lots of storage space.
They told me not to be surprised if many people told me that it did not exist.

Dianna

53flyingcloud · 08-29-2002, 05:34 AM

Dianna,
I have posted 4 pictures of an 1989 A/S 5th wheel which is 36' long. look for it under the Member's Photo section.

acwdgw · 08-29-2002, 12:38 PM

Vern,

Thanks for the very nice pics! Were you visiting the factory when this rig came in?

We sure would like to find one...and this one seems very nice.

Thanks again for the info,
Dianna

53flyingcloud · 08-29-2002, 04:17 PM

Dianna,
Yes. I was there when the young lady drove in from her home state with it. She actually parked it in the service bay for the Tech to work on it and, she parked it on her first try too~!! Quite a feat, wouldn't you agree?
This unit, I'm most positive, isn't for sale..The family that owns it, Just loves it too much~!
I'll say this abt the inside..It was very, very nice. I was lucky to be given a quick tour of the unit before work was started..(shampoo the rug).
The only other one that I've seen is....not anywhere near as nice as looking as this one is on the outside...If you're interested in it's location...send me an email..I don't want to create a stampee via the internet..<smiles>
Again, thanks for the nice comments abt the picture, the credit belongs to the owners for taking excellent care of it..
ciao

mtrailink · 01-08-2004, 01:40 PM

They sure do exist!! We have one and love it!! anyone in doubt can contact us!! They are a great fifth wheel . Originally sold for 35,000. Very few were made and dont understand why. They are a dream to pull, Heavy yes, but everything you'd ever need. microwave, surround sound stero great set up for bath etc. tons of storage, area for washer and dryer, area for a generator(that was optional when they came out) has a separate dining set(not built in)carpet . Heck they are just awesome. We have just recently considered selling it .Just considered now thats all.
any one with questions we would love to answer.

Respectively,
Thomas E. Travis

George Jr. · 01-08-2004, 02:36 PM

The reason they stopped production...........no one could determine how to tow it with a Suburban.

acwdgw · 01-09-2004, 08:47 AM

Tom,

Let me know if you start seriously considering selling it, but in the mean time, here are a few questions...

1. You say it is heavy; just how heavy?
2. Is the construction typical Airstream? All Aluminum structure?
3. What about the floor? Is it plywood or particleboard?
4. Do you have a slide-out? If so, have you had any problems with it? I have heard horror stories of them falling out.
5. Did you have to make any modifications to your truck to hook to it? By that I mean, lowering the vehicle. I have heard that they had problems with taller trucks.
6. Do you have any photos that you could post? I am sure everyone would be interested in seeing it.

I look forward to your answers and thanks for the post!
Dianna

sander17 · 01-09-2004, 11:11 AM

George Jr,
No you don't use a suburban, you get a Dodge Intrepid with a sunroof............

mtrailink · 01-09-2004, 11:50 AM

ONE MORE TRY WITH THE PIC

acwdgw · 01-09-2004, 11:58 AM

Tom,
I didn't realize when I asked you for photos that the airstream photos site is not currently working. It is supposed to be up soon.
Dianna

mtrailink · 01-09-2004, 12:01 PM

might be easier if i emailed them to you

53flyingcloud · 01-09-2004, 04:28 PM

Could you send more, if you don't mind...?

Thanks~!

ciao

Catfisherman · 01-09-2004, 07:33 PM

Just on the computer tonight and seen a posting as of Jan 7, 2004 of a 1989 Airstream 5th Wheel for sale I believe in Tenn - See Ad at (Sell Airstream.Com)

mtrailink · 01-09-2004, 09:37 PM

Will sort through my photo cd's,and find some interior. I will post them as soon as I can. May be a few days as we are going to Alabama to camp and fish.YEA!!