26 May 15 Airstream Inspection Tips

“What should I look for before buying an Airstream?” is a question we here many times from clients at Hofmann Architecture. We have purchased many Airstreams, and there are many things we look for before writing the check.

The following list of things to look for before buying a used Airstream, was written by The Airstream Diary, from an interview with Paul Mayeux and Ann Flanagan. They have been the owners and operators of A&P Vintage Trailer Works since 2009. They have been servicing and renovating vintage and late model Airstreams for more than a decade. They’re pretty good at what they do, because “…we have an 18-month waiting list for our renovation work,” Paul says.

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Here’s what they recommend you should look for before buying a vintage Airstream:

1. Expect axles over 20-years-old to be shot.
2. Predict appliances more than 20-years-old to NOT be trustworthy.
3. Observe the body to frame connection at the tongue and bumper.
4. Look for significant corrosion on the frame at those locations.
5. Look for outriggers that have rubbed through the belly pan or body (body to frame connection problems). Airstreams from the late 1950s to about 1961, with rectangular frames, need additional diligence when inspecting for corrosion – especially in the belly compartment that may not be readily visible.
6. Jump on the back bumper! If the body-frame connection is compromised, there’ll be movement.
7. Wiring – There are known issues with wiring in late 1960s solid aluminum wiring in Airstreams.
8. Additional rear weight – Anything that has added additional weight to the back of the trailer is a RED FLAG! Additional weight in the rear of a trailer can have significant structural impact.
9. Poke around at windows and doors. Check the floor around windows and doors and wheel wells with an ice pick. You’re looking for softness in the plywood floor in those areas.
10. Check the windows for weather seal. Missing Airstream windows can be very expensive and nearly impossible to find.
11. Smell for fresh chemicals; caulk, glues and carpets under sinks, under windows and other areas that are prone to damaging leaks.
12. Look for leaks. Staying ahead of leaks is part of trailer ownership. Expect leaks. If the trailer you’re considering has leaks, and it’s been leaking a long time – EXPECT SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE.
13. Ask “Where has the trailer lived?” An Arizona trailer will not have suffered the rot and corrosion a Florida trailer suffers from. Ask for the trailer’s genealogy. Ask if the owner would share memorabilia or pictures.
14. Plumbing – If the plumbing has not been upgraded with new water pump / faucets / PEX, there may have been drips or leaks that also cause damage over time.
15. Inspect the hitch before you hook your trailer up and take it home.