Re: [A/S] Lots of questions. :)

[Matt Worner <wornmatt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Barry,


> Are there any problems inherent is this vintage? I've read about the
> sagging rear due to the rear bath. Anything else I should know?
> 
> I learned that it does not have a gray water tank. Should this be a
> concern, or do you just have to empty more often?
> 
The rear end sag was caused by addition of a grey water tank in later
models (I believe '72 to '74) and there was a factory fix.  The one you
are looking at was before that time, and should not be a problem. 
Actually, I've read that the rear end sag was secondary to towing with a
full tank anyway.  Any of the earlier models without grey tank just have
a separate dump valve, so you are left with the options of dumping on
the ground, which is rarely allowed, or using a portable tank.  These
range from 5 gallon, carry to the dump station, to 25 gallon, with a tow
hitch, models.  Either way, a gallon of water will weigh 8 pounds, so
you decide how much you want to wrestle with.  ;^)>  The tanks I've seen
are blue, and you will see references to "blue boys" meaning these
tanks.

> They are asking $4000. (new tires, bearings and A/C) Is this a good
> price for this unit?
> 
Just as a point of reference, we paid $7500 for a '75 31 footer in
immaculate shape, every thing ready to roll.  The tires on any RV are
generally good for only about 5 years unless you do a LOT of towing and
keep them working (tires lubricate themselves) at which juncture they
will last until the treads are marginal.  Last 3 digits of the DOT
number refer to the week and last digit of the year the tires were
manufactured.  E.g. 317 would be 31st week of 1997 (or hopefully NOT
1987 or even worse 1977).  

> Does anyone know the approx. weight of this model? I have a 1/2 ton
> Suburban and am safety conscious about towing. The current owner tows
> with a Ford 150.

Look somewhere on the front of the coach, to the street side of the
tongue "A" frame.  There should be a tag with the "GVWR" indicated.  I
would guess that since the unit you are looking at is close to mine in
size and year that you are looking at something in the area of 7000
pounds, possibly a couple of hundred less, but not much.  Ours is rated
at 7100, was delivered by the seller.  His 'Burb 2500 normally aspirated
diesel just wouldn't pull a 1 mile 6% grade at more than 35 mph.  Way
below MY comfort level!

> I just looked at a 1970 30 foot
> International Land Yacht. Rear bath, middle double. In acceptable
> condition. The only thing that doesn't work is the furnace. (Not a
> priority at the moment, as I am in Florida.)

Recently read that a new furnace (should you have to go that far) runs
about $500 installed. YMMV


> This is my first time posting here. Don't own an Airstream yet, but am
> constantly searching for one and I thought, who better to ask than
> people that own them. :)
> Basically, it appears to be in ok shape. I refurbished my last RV, and
> anticipate doing the same with whatever Airstream I end up buying. I
> have my heart set on one, and won't give up until I have one! :)

Go for it!  Not only will you be getting one of the finest units ever
made, but you will also meet some of the nicest folks.  Check out also
the Vintage Group (www.airstream.net).  Where else can you see bunches
of guys standing around one trailer looking for holes to stick rivets
in, while their respective spouses keep them supplied with coffee. MTTP
(more truth than poetry). Typical scene at a Vintage Gathering.
 
> Thanks in advance for any help you could give me.

Welcome to the group.

Matt