F.A.Q.'s
Buying
Q: We are Airstream novices. We
are just starting to look at trailers. What should we know?
A: If this will be your only RV, I can't stress the importance
enough that you consider one in good condition, and as ready to roll as
possible. Nothing is more disheartening than the seemingly never-ending
work to be done on an older poor condition trailer - and in the meantime
the seasons go by without you and your family out enjoying camping and
traveling. If there is one major cause of unfinished trailers being sold
because the owner loses interest, it is this. It is advisable to get a
newer trailer to tinker with and maintain, and then after you are comfortable
with RV'ing and Airstreams, then get your "dream restoration"
old Airstream. It is also a way to become familiar with your likes and
needs before embarking on a major project. This way there will be now
regrets and compromises.
Q: How do you decide what size and era of trailer to look for?
A: Think through how you plan to use the trailer. How
many people, what length of trips, where do you plan to go? Are you interested
in vintage era (nostalgia) camping? Do you love restoring and fixing things?
What size and quality tow vehicle are you willing to purchase? Will the
trailer be just parked, or will you travel?
Then ask yourself, what is the smallest trailer that will fit my needs?
What is the largest trailer I will be able to tow? What is the largest
trailer that will go where I want to go? (many campground sites and mountain
roads will limit the max length)
Look at trailers until your objectives are clear. Get the right trailer
for your needs and wants, don't grab at the first one to come along. It
makes no sense to try and modify something into something it can never
be. If you truly want a custom made interior, it makes no financial sense
to buy a good condition trailer and throw out the interior. If you really
like the looks of Oak wood, don't buy a mahogany interior and spend years
trying to lighten the wood. If you have a large family, truly consider
a larger trailer, even if "Bambi's are cute". You can always
get another trailer later as your needs change.
Q: What should we pay?
A: Value is very subjective, and it is against club policy
to discuss prices. It is best to watch the Classifieds, and some private
websites have their own guides to prices. It is a fact though, a more
expensive but better condition trailer will be the better value and cheaper
in the end. Repairs and parts, even if you do much of the labor, will
get expensive very quickly. It is not uncommon to spend $3000-$4000 to
get an Airstream that hasn't been used in a while up to a reliable travel
ready condition. "Talk is cheap, Airstreams are expensive."
(Wally Byam)
Q: Say an old Airstream is in "average" condition. What does
that mean?
A:
1) The shell will have no dents larger nor deeper than a mans hand, no
scores nor scrapes running down the sides. It need not be polished.
2) The interior furnishings should be 90% original.
3) The major appliances such as water heater and refrigerator work, otherwise
a reduction is in order. It is OK to ask the owner to demonstrate that
the plumbing does not leak and that the refrigerator will make ice cubes.
4) The tires are good enough to tow the trailer a short distance.
5) The floor should be solid throughout.
6) The trailer has been used regularly, and has been annually maintained.
Q: We have just purchased a used trailer. What is first and most important?
A: After phoning your insurance agent and changing the
title with the Motor Vehicle Dept., drive it to a dealer and ask them
to inspect the brakes and wheels. While you're at it, you might ask them
to inspect and fix any gas appliances. Make sure your vehicle's tow rating
and hitch are suitable for the trailer.
Manuals
Q: I need an owners and service manual for my Airstream. Where
can I get one?
A: The first owners manuals were published in 1964. Prior
to that, the owner received a brown envelope containing parts lists and
other helpful information on the accessories in his trailer. The VAC has
started making these available in the Members Archive section. A service
manual with instructions for performing service operations did not exist
until 1972.
You can get photocopies of owners manual (1964+) and service manuals (1972-1986)
from:
Helen Davis Secretarial Services
PO Box 484 Sidney, OH 45365
(937)492-8885
Prices are about $33 and $70 respectively. After 1986 the Owners Manuals
included available service information.
Insurance
Q: I have just bought an Airstream. Where can I buy insurance? What coverage
do I ask for?
A: Call the agent for your automobile insurance. Also,
Foremost Insurance Company (1-800-527-3905) specializes in trailer
coverage. The laws vary from state to state, but in general the liability
coverage for your tow car can be extended to cover your trailer as well.
It's the fire, theft and damage on the trailer that is a separate coverage.
$10,000 of coverage is about $250/year.
Q: I have finally finished restoring my trailer. I was amazed to find
that my insurance company would only cover me for $2500. They say that
is the standard amount for a trailer over 15 years old. Is that right?
A: Many companies have such a rule. If you feel that
the replacement value of your trailer is say, $12,000, and you are willing
to pay the added premium, ask for stated value coverage. Work with your
agent. The insurance company will probably agree. It may require receipts
for parts and labor accomplished.
