[A/S] First A/S Purchase

["Noah S." <noahnoa@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

    Thanks to all of you - for the information you have provided over the past months. Yesterday I brought home my new (old) 1974 29 foot Ambassador International (rear bath).

    For anyone else who is purchasing or considering the purchase of their first Airstream perhaps you will find this info of use:
    - Skin clean and uniform in color with one small dent on one of the upper rear panels.
    - No evidence of rear-end droop, or leaks although did find a small area of floor in front of toilet that was a bit soft.
    - A/C may need replacing (if oil and hope dont get motor running).
    -All other systems seem to be OK and include:
        Catalytic heater
        Forced air furnace
        5 new tires (with paper still on treads)
        2 30# alum gas tanks
        Electric hitch jack 
        Reese load leveling/anti-sway hitch
        Microwave oven
        Awning and several window awning also
        Mag wheels
        Electric brakes & gray water tanks (may be standard?)
        and more to discover

    Price $4500

     I had a Drawtite Activator II brake controller installed prior to picking up the trailer   I towed it home, about 200 miles, with my 6 Cyl 1993 1500 Silverado with 5 speed standard. (equipped with a non-restrictive exhaust and a high volume air filter). I had no difficulties towing and felt very comfortable at 50 to 55 MPH but had to down shift to 3rd on steeper hills to keep above 40+ MPH.  As I do not know what the rear end ratio is, I am going to have that checked out before I do any more moving about. I don't travel a lot. 

    A friend went with me who has a lot of towing experience. He showed me how to set the brakes and hitch. This was the most important reason why the trip home was as smooth as it was.

     The sun is up and I am out to play with my new toy.  Again, thanks for the help in the past and now the real help will be needed.


DAY 2
OUCH! Just found 3 water leaks. Freeze cracks in the copper lines. So much for the seller swearing that the unit was fully winterized and had no leaks (I know I should have insisted on hooking it up).  I'll get over it and if that's all that is wrong with it I'll be a happy full-timer.

DAY 2, 3 and 4.
Fixed leaks and found 2 more inside toilet. Was amazed to find a new control cartridge for the Moen shower controll. I managed to clean (the cartridges) and get the sink faucets operational. Today, off comes the toilet. I'll get over it if thats all thats wrong with it.

Into the learning curve,
Noah Slusky
Hopewell Junction, NY