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Old 06-26-2020, 08:53 AM   #1
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some town , PA
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30 Bunk 2020 or 2021??

Hello Airstreamers.

We're planning to trade our 2017 FC 28RBQ for a new FC 30 Bunk. We're trying to decide if we should buy a new 2020 on a dealers lot OR order a new 2021 for delivery later this year. The delivery time is not critical for us as we're not in any rush.

My question for the group:
  • Are there any functional (non-cosmetic) changes/improvements that would make you choose a 2021 model over a 2020? For example, I've heard rumors that 2021 AS's use a composite subfloor that is not subject to rot as the plywood subfloors have been.

Also, any other advise regarding this topic or 30 bunk model experience would be appreciated. We're looking to pull the trigger on this decision very shortly.

Thanks!
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Old 06-26-2020, 10:10 PM   #2
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The composite floor is going to be worth more and more as the trailer gets older and older. The plywood floors only last about 10 years or so before they start to rot. However much it cost you to replace the plywood floor or a section of the plywood floor is how much the composite floor is worth.

I believe this is by far the most significant upgrade airstream has done in a very long time. Usually the changes they make year-to-year are fashion and cosmetic changes in the interior design. Sometimes they add electronica gizmos like power awnings or some Internet service, but these “improvements “sometimes come with their own problems.
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Old 06-26-2020, 10:28 PM   #3
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I believe the one piece composite floor is a super upgrade that is worth getting the 2021 model because it will greatly increases the longevity of your Airstream. However, I have also read that some late 2020 models were built with it. How do you like the idea of an electric only water heater? If you are a boondocker, this would seem to be a disadvantage over the propane/electric in the 2020 model. The last thing is the interior appearance - do you have a preference?
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Old 06-27-2020, 07:01 AM   #4
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Thanks for these replies.

Is there any way I can tell if a specific AS has the composite subfloor? Would it be on the build-sheet?
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Old 06-27-2020, 10:59 AM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Short563 View Post
How do you like the idea of an electric only water heater? If you are a boondocker, this would seem to be a disadvantage over the propane/electric in the 2020 model.
From the thread below it sounds like the 2021 water heater is PROPANE ONLY, not ELECTRIC ONLY. Something to check.
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Old 06-27-2020, 11:14 AM   #6
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The best way to verify if a particular 2020 has the composite floor is to go see the trailer in person and look for floor penetrations: check around the water heater, furnace duct that goes to the underbelly or maybe a drain pipe. If the floor is blue and grey it has the composite floor.
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Old 06-27-2020, 11:17 AM   #7
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Originally Posted by DewTheDew View Post
From the thread below it sounds like the 2021 water heater is PROPANE ONLY, not ELECTRIC ONLY. Something to check.
Yes the 2021 is propane only as confirmed by Patrick at Colonial. This is good for boondockers and campground campers as well. Apparently it’s quieter.
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Old 06-27-2020, 12:11 PM   #8
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Belgrade , Montana
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Composite Subfloor

Quote:
Originally Posted by philly_air View Post
Thanks for these replies.

Is there any way I can tell if a specific AS has the composite subfloor? Would it be on the build-sheet?
Yes, there is a way to tell and no, it is not on the build sheet. Although advertised as new for 2021 models, the composite subfloor was added to the 2020 models beginning in January of this year. You just need to ensure that the 2020 model you are looking at was built this year. There should be a tag on the side of the trailer that shows the production date.

Happy travels!
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Old 06-27-2020, 02:38 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Short563 View Post
I believe the one piece composite floor is a super upgrade that is worth getting the 2021 model because it will greatly increases the longevity of your Airstream. However, I have also read that some late 2020 models were built with it. How do you like the idea of an electric only water heater? If you are a boondocker, this would seem to be a disadvantage over the propane/electric in the 2020 model. The last thing is the interior appearance - do you have a preference?


Sorry got that wrong - should have said propane only!
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Old 06-27-2020, 03:16 PM   #10
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There’s an aftermarket product called hot rod which can add electric water heater to a propane only water heater. I do not know if that particular third-party product is compatible with a type of propane heater they are installing in the new models. If it is, it is a fairly simple and straightforward mod you can do yourself.
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Old 06-27-2020, 06:47 PM   #11
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https://youtu.be/Wi78rNduW8Q for the changes
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