Re: [A/S] towing an Airstream off road

["Colin Hyde" <chyde@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

The frame on my 59 Ambassador International is a 2" X 4" with a  .100" wall
thickness. It also has a 1/8" angle inserted inside the frame members in the
"A" frame area. My frame rusted out just inside the bellypan area and
required the "A" frame to be replaced. Strange as it may seem, the 60's
trailers had stronger frames than the 50's trailers. Their wall thicknesses
were heavier throughout and some used structural "C" sections commonly used
in steel building construction. I suspect the 60's & 70's trailers gained
weight at a greater rate than Airstream strengthened their chassies which
compounded other structural problems that are appearing today.
You're right about the interiors though and are a testament to their
longevity.

Colin Hyde
Assorted 50's & 60's Airstreams
GSM Vehicles Inc.
Specializing in Vintage Airstream Restoration