[A/S] Shopping soon for used AS and have a few questions

["Christopher45103" <blickcd@xxxxxxx>]

Hello,

I've lurked here and elsewhere for quite a while and already know a 
lot about Airstreams and RV's in general, yet haven't owned one yet.  
Within the next few months I plan on purchasing an F250, and also 
plan to get a travel trailer of some kind, preferably an Airstream.

In my preliminary searches on the net, late 80's - early 90's models 
seem to fit my budget and most appear to be in good condition.  I'm 
interested in a 30' - 32' trailer with a double bed in the rear.  
Here are my questions:

I already know of many things to look for on used RV's (water leaks, 
etc) but are there any known problems for these model years or 
trailers of this age?

Should I expect the same type of pressure at a dealership as if I was 
buying a used car?  i.e. "There was a couple looking at that 
Airstream yesterday and they said they would buy it later today.  
This may be your only chance."  I assume a line like this would be a 
bunch of bull, since I think Airstreams only appeal to a select group 
of people and probably stay on dealer's lots for a while.

Also, if purchasing used from a dealer, I know to test everything 
before closing the deal.  Assuming the water system has been 
winterized and there are no house batteries installed, how do I go 
about this?  In other words, should I first insist on a 
demonstration, or go ahead and negotiate a price, but have in 
writting that the deal is only good if everything works?

Finally, when it comes to the sale price, should I use the NADA web 
site as a guide or is there a rule of thumb for average dealer mark-
up?  I plan on writting a check for it, paying in full.  Does that 
give me any leverage in negotiations or work against me since the 
dealer makes no interest?

Thanks in advance,
Christopher

P.S. - I live in SW Ohio, near Cincinnati.  If you have a used 
trailer that fits my description, or know someone that wants to sell, 
send info and photos.  I'm willing to drive about two hours to check 
out a good prospect.