Not according to a document Airstream published in 2007. Try searching for "history of aluminum at airstream," and you should be able to find the document--I have seen it posted on the forums several times.
The last change to the alloy/thickness was in 1994. Their comment: Airstream widened the body, requiring stronger aluminum for the weight. Side and end panels remained 3003 or 3004-H18 but thickness increased to 0.040 “.
The only changes since then have been in the plasticoat supplier.
Thanks. Is there, then, no real difference between late 90's and early 2000's coaches as far as the exterior is concerned? We'll be looking for a 34' coach soon, and think we might be able to go as new as early 2000's, but the late 90's are easily in our budget.
__________________
David Lininger, kb0zke
AIR 54240
Heartland mpg 181 (sold)
1993 Foretravel U300 (sold)
2022 Grand Design Reflection 315RLTS
I think the difference in 2000 was the fact that Airstream started using pre-finished aluminum panels from Alcoa. The EPA played havoc with the emissions from the coatings that Airstream used at the plant in the 90's. There were revisions made through the decade and you will find some 90's models that displayed various forms of premature clear coat peal as Airstream attempted to meet EPA guidelines by changing the formulas that were applied at Jackson Center. I think the later 90's trailers had the most issues. With all the problems, they finally threw in the towel and bought pre-finished aluminum from Alcoa, which if I remember correctly, began with the 2000 models.
Jack
__________________
Jack Canavera
STL Mo. AIR #56 S/OS#15
'04 Classic 30' S.O.,'03 GMC Savana 2500
I wouldn't make the type of clear coat that is on the trailer a critical decision factor. I have seen trailers as new as 2007 with peeling clear coat. Eventually they will all fail, some sooner than others.
This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Airstream, Inc. or any of its affiliates. Airstream is a registered trademark of Airstream Inc. All rights reserved. Airstream trademark used under license to Social Knowledge LLC.