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

[appdsgn@xxxxxxx]

> 
> They are asking $4000. (new tires, bearings and A/C) Is this a good 
> price for this unit?
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Hi Barry, 

$4000 is reasonable if the coach is in reasonable shape.  This means 
sound frame, only a few minor dents or scratches on skin and only 
moderate oxidation on top.
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> This may be a loaded question but.. What problems should I be 
looking 
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Look for frame rust, body separation, especailly in the rear, and dry 
rot on the floor around the edges.  With that vintage airstream 
(probably all actually), water leaks tend to travel between the 
exterior and interior alumimum skins and cause the floor to rot and 
the frame underneath to rust.  Pay particular attention if the unit 
has been stored out doors for some time expecially with the rain you 
get in FL). I've seen some units where the frame was completely shot 
due to rust.  That is very expensive to fix. Some surface rust is ok, 
but if present look closer.  It is hard to examine because the bottom 
is covered.  You may get access from the rear hatch. 

Body separation occurs when the bolts holding the coach body to the 
frame rust out or break.  The coach gets it's full strength from the 
combined frame and body.  The frame tends to bounce against the body 
when being towed and causes more damage.  There is a fix for this.  I 
had my 1969 27' Overlander repaired at Jackson Center and have not 
had a problem since.
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> 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? 
> 
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It does not have a grey tank. We carry a separate 30 gallon blue 
tank.  Works ok, but it is a pain when time to dump.  One benefit 
(sort of) is I can dump the grey periodically while camping just by 
dragging the tank to the dump. 
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> Does anyone know the approx. weight of this model? I have a 1/2 ton 
> Suburban and am safety conscious about towing. > 

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According to the "Airstream Story" sales book that came with my '69 
overlander, the 27' weighed 4525 pounds.  The 29' ambassador is 
listed at 4715 pounds and the 31' sovereign listed at 4995 pounds. 
That is dry without options (awning, air conditioner, etc).  I 
weighed my trailer loaded with the usual stuff minus clothing, food 
and water.  It weighed 5260 pounds. Fully loaded, I estimate it is 
close to 6000 pounds. We tow with a Yukon 5.8 ltr and 3.73 which does 
fine on flat and both western and eastern mountains. Only complaint 
about the Yukon is the short wheelbase.  The suburban will tow nicer.

Jim White
appdsgn@tir.com
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