[a/s] Potential Newbies - 1978 Airstream purchase?

[SWGRAY2 <SWGRAY2@xxxxxxx>]

We are looking (well - it's in another state) at a 1978 Airstream
that has been tied down for 7 years. I don't know the model yet.
It's
in Florida. It will need new tires. What else? It is a 26 footer.
It has
a couch/double bed and 2 twins. We haven't seen a floorplan yet -
is there one of this age on the net? New carpet, new upholstery,
new toilet, new awning, elec. refrig. I've heard the 70's models
weren't the quality of the earlier or 80's and beyond (Company
trauma). We have a seven and three year old and feel the size
should be ok, and we have a new model Suburban to pull it with.
Flood us with suggestions, experience, and things to think about.
After looking at all the ugly 'mobile homes on wheels' I really
like the Airstream - but the new ones are just too expensive
right now. I am good with my hands (I built our 3000' house -
installed the electrical, finish plumbing, flooring, HVAC system,
security, phone, insulation, and lots of other stuff) so I can
work on it - I'm NOT very good with mechanical things like
engines (weird isn't it?). That's why a motorhome is a definite
no. We're eager but unsure. Thanks - 
Arkies yearning to breathe free!