Congrats on jumping up to the "elite" club that so many are jealous of!
bumpy
2014 Kodiak 279 rbsl
2017 Ford F-150 King Ranch V8
Equalizer hitch
Ford integrated brake controller
2004 Travel Lite 23S Hybrid Travel Trailer ( previous trailer )
1998 Viking Popup ( previous trailer )
No substitute for experience
Really looking forward to just getting to basic camping.
http://www.airforums.com/
![[emoticon]](http://www.coastresorts.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/smile.gif "smile")
Lynn
Pics and stuff at my Flickr pages
Not for me.
Good luck.
Jesseannie
jesseannie wrote:
Airstreams are beautiful if you want the exterior to stay that way they do require some maintaining. They are heavy so your tow vehicle has to be adequate. That unit you mentioned is probably in the one ton tow vehicle range.
Good luck.
Jesseannie
Airstreams are beautiful if you want the exterior to stay that way they do require some maintaining. They are heavy so your tow vehicle has to be adequate. That unit you mentioned is probably in the one ton tow vehicle range.
Good luck.
Jesseannie
My buddy has the 30RB. He loves it & it is not as heavy as you might think. He pulls it just fine with a 2014 chevy 2500 w/6.0L gas. his previous tow vehicle was a 2004 chevy 2500 w/6.0L gas.
Ron & BJ
2008 Dutchmen Freedom Spirit FS180 w/full factory dark tinted glass. (9 .yrs w/o any issues)
2014 Chevy Silverado LT Dbl cab, 5.3 L, 4 WD, tow pkg, max payload pkg, Prodigy
ata3001 wrote:
My buddy has the 30RB. He loves it & it is not as heavy as you might think. He pulls it just fine with a 2014 chevy 2500 w/6.0L gas. his previous tow vehicle was a 2004 chevy 2500 w/6.0L gas.
jesseannie wrote:
Airstreams are beautiful if you want the exterior to stay that way they do require some maintaining. They are heavy so your tow vehicle has to be adequate. That unit you mentioned is probably in the one ton tow vehicle range.
Good luck.
Jesseannie
Airstreams are beautiful if you want the exterior to stay that way they do require some maintaining. They are heavy so your tow vehicle has to be adequate. That unit you mentioned is probably in the one ton tow vehicle range.
Good luck.
Jesseannie
My buddy has the 30RB. He loves it & it is not as heavy as you might think. He pulls it just fine with a 2014 chevy 2500 w/6.0L gas. his previous tow vehicle was a 2004 chevy 2500 w/6.0L gas.
I was skeptical so I checked the specs. You are right I was surprised at the weight 88xx gvw. Well within a 3/4 truck.
Jesseannie
2015 Ram 1500
2022 Grand Design Imagine XLS 22RBE
TurnThePage wrote:
I admire them and daydream about them all the time, but a simple google "airstream leak" is all I need to calibrate my thoughts. Even their own construction videos leave me wondering.
I admire them and daydream about them all the time, but a simple google "airstream leak" is all I need to calibrate my thoughts. Even their own construction videos leave me wondering.
yep, a whole lot of seams to potentially leak.
bumpy
They are very high priced and would not be so if they were not worth it in the eyes of their owners.
Considering you could buy two or even three standard TTs for the price of an Airstream and a 20 year old AS is just reaching puberty in TT world, says a lot.
We looked at them briefly, The DW did not like the shape, I want a slide and neither of us wanted to spend that much. None of that has anything to do with the value of an Airstream.
To put it in perspective, if I won a multi-million dollar lottery, Ferrari might just make their first pickup truck.
Till then its my F-150. Safe travels
Twenty six foot 2010 Dutchmen Lite pulled with a 2011 EcoBoost F-150 4x4.
Just right for Grandpa, Grandma and the dog.
If I found a million dollars, I'd find the guy who lost it and if he was poor, I'd give it back!
![[image]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CNelD4q6PjBcheRpCZ_2OJ1whLwZMfz0VZ0Dv0Ujf9meJRtCG4jMZi-Ucp3PkoyMSTowNVm7jx7v0_Uu0G2nISusWsERFZ4Nxfo90Rf3V1bE_DV1YhdEFyrTVaST0zgJlsICKHpyC8EBur5Eks0Z-sNeYUN-JChuMSUCNO67QQiPJoIM5PagVqzKLLOX2_A65KviNFmInIraOF5hG5IUgbe7GL_Zg5E_ZDLPtxgUNpCuePT6tAuqndMaimn6m_tI32uxKL4H2WtfzXmipy3U1FpTSG0SLSrNOAHBsiJYa7LYPb6Inp_vBUmWI8ZNJD2bCEFEk6WbYdzzGdsUIq7gwlA5hH8qnCAOmwioEkiXDeuLQSzxG2orizWsXOrrKyTOg1DOQ3GsRtVZ6ZtnCReEvzrzOwU3gaIAXrOnl9yIrGOP6Vq5Zr12Densi2-0QwUy33xQnuK9gkhn3reolbUL1NUXtl6oraJrIvdtpNW496Igy65lSs0Qk9n-EbALqlHEGeAJENnFHWtc8_Ps31GTjyg7jr7-NnCzdGSx6I-OIe06A1JPLu6KFz3rZ2S-QTz2xEI7KdYoF2pElKFuMRQBz-Pf11t8tMfTqwIfhW4=w850-h637-no)
Bobbo and Lin
2017 F-150 XLT 4x4 SuperCab w/Max Tow Package 3.5l EcoBoost V6
2017 Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB
rbpru wrote:
Airstreams cost because of the volume, construction, quality and pride of ownership factor.
They are very high priced and would not be so if they were not worth it in the eyes of their owners.
Considering you could buy two or even three standard TTs for the price of an Airstream and a 20 year old AS is just reaching puberty in TT world, says a lot.
We looked at them briefly, The DW did not like the shape, I want a slide and neither of us wanted to spend that much. None of that has anything to do with the value of an Airstream.
To put it in perspective, if I won a multi-million dollar lottery, Ferrari might just make their first pickup truck. Till then its my F-150.
Safe travels
Airstreams cost because of the volume, construction, quality and pride of ownership factor.
They are very high priced and would not be so if they were not worth it in the eyes of their owners.
Considering you could buy two or even three standard TTs for the price of an Airstream and a 20 year old AS is just reaching puberty in TT world, says a lot.
We looked at them briefly, The DW did not like the shape, I want a slide and neither of us wanted to spend that much. None of that has anything to do with the value of an Airstream.
To put it in perspective, if I won a multi-million dollar lottery, Ferrari might just make their first pickup truck.
Till then its my F-150. Safe travels
Every winter I spend a few minutes strolling through the giant Airstream display at the Tampa show. As the prices hit the stratosphere over the years, one thing becomes clearer. This is a case of genius level marketing and very little substance behind the curtain. Same ole' appliances, Chinese LEDS, and other junk found in the brands that the Airstream snobs love to belittle. Garbage QC in many areas (huge puckers between rivets on roof seams, really?) All of this is accompanied by ridiculous pricing. The 2018 30' Classic had a BASE MSRP of $142,000..................seriously?
Sorry, but when you go on about just reaching puberty at 20 YO, and Ferrari comparisons, there is a marketing department smiling, and the bean counters at Thor staring at the profit margins in awe. It's all about drinking the Kool-Aid.I wonder how many Kool-Aide drinkers would still wave that Airstream flag after a deep dive into search topics like "floor rot, Roof leakage, filiform corrosion, and factory support for warranty problems" ? I knew that the whole deal jumped the shark a few years back, when I stopped at an Airstream dealer who had a few worn out hulks on his lot. I was actually buying a part for another brand, but I was looking at his inventory before I left. I step in a 28' or so, thirty year old Airstream TT, and my foot goes in the rot hole at the door. the interior is filled with mold smell and need a total gut job. The salesman tells me it's available for $18K and he can't move much on the price. Yea, OK, right after pigs fly. The problem with this whole "value" concept is that, once you step away from the dealer, and back into the real world, a quick search of national databases show an abundance of really nice similar used Airstreams, of the same vintage, that do NOT need $20-30K in rebuilding, for LESS than $18K. That's how it works when you can sucessfully create a perception of value, based on past reputation and brilliant marketing.
DownTheAvenue wrote:
This thread reminds me of the Hensley Arrow debate: many people bad mouth a superior product they have never seen or used. So it is with the Airstream and this thread: many people bad mouthing a superior product they have never used and probably could not afford so they degrade it.
This thread reminds me of the Hensley Arrow debate: many people bad mouth a superior product they have never seen or used. So it is with the Airstream and this thread: many people bad mouthing a superior product they have never used and probably could not afford so they degrade it.
You might be a bit right, however, Airstreams are a "love it" or Hate it" type of trailer.
To be willing to pay the premium price tag, one must "love it".
While I appreciate the "nostalgic" look of the 1950's the design IS completely worn out and out of touch. Modern airplanes have changed looks but the Air Streams have not (and AirStream took their design cues from airplanes back in the day and looked "futuristic"). There is only so much you can do with the silver looking hot dog on wheels to update the look.
Have you ever been in one? The rounded outside takes a lot of inside space away and that IS a "fact" so they are not as spacious as a boxy RV.
Inside construction while based on a modular design approach tends to waste space also and does add weight.
Inside materials are no better than any other RV, they use the same paneling, appliances and so on.
That gets us down to the outside, yeah, shiny riveted aluminum sheets, what can I say, lots of ways of leaking.. Water proofing is an issue and leaks are well hidden for a long time. Aluminum does corrode/dull, and keeping it polished can be a huge task..
Yes, there are folks who love the 1950s look and are willing to pay a premium..
And there are folks like me who enjoy seeing the 1950s look while someone else pays the premium..
For me, they don't make sense to own, partly due to cost, partly due to the dated looks, partly due to same old interior materials as any other RV..
You make my point exactly. You are one of those folks who does not feel that there is anything so unique about Airstreams to justify the price.
You have to remember that some people feel that the tube construction alone justifies the high price. Add to this the perception of easy towing and optimised storage and buyers willing fork over the bucks.
You and I might feel this is simply hype but that can be said about almost any item we buy from the vehicles we drive to the hats on our heads.
Yes, you do find Airstreams with the some of the same issues as a standard TT but how many other brands are professionally restored?
Like it or not, we all drink the Kool-Aid and beat our drums to express our opinions. If a person perceives value in a product, that is their choice. I certainly would not try to redefine their version of happy.
Personally I am a bit more frugal with my money but I am not part of the Airstream demographic.
The RV world is a big tent.
Be safe.
This comes up every so often. Those who can’t perceive important design differences, first, and quality, second.
AS survived where the other aero, all-aluminum TTs did not. It was the entry level choice. None of them were ever cheap. The usual decision to buy one was versus mountain or lake property with a house. Doctors, lawyers, executives.
No one is forced to buy new. Except with a conventional TT. A 10-15 yr old AS has most of its depreciation gone. And is new enough to need little. Possibly nothing.
The difference in towing is night & day. Believing one has to be stuck with a pickup is a function of late-day ignorance. It wasn’t ever the norm. Nor need it be.
My folks bought their vintage kin Silver Streak in 1975. Kept it 27-Years. It’s still on the road. By choice, only two TVs in that time.
My 1990 is nearly thirty years old. But it’s in better shape — and will remain that way — than any seven or eight year old conventional.
FWIW, I purchased both my pickup (at three model years) and the TT (at twenty-two years) and combined had less than 30k in the outlay. True, as third generation I’m familiar with what to look for, etc. I wanted longest life at lowest cost.
With the current price of fuel my towing average is 17-cpm. Maybe $900 in fuel to take a 5000-mile vacation. So, a one ton pickup with a 35’ TT hitting nearly 17-mpg. Averaging 15.
Depreciation? Well, the pickup lost $3k in value the first nine years. The TT has only appreciated.
The used market allows leisure for a search. 10,000 or more of them out there. And the option of upgrading appliances, furnishings, etc is easy. Can be higher than RV quality. The factory sets a higher bar than most meet in their renovations, as there are no rules.
I strongly recommend reading Skatieros thread on AIR about renovating their 1986 32’ Excella to fit nine. Beautiful work.
If I were looking to replace mine with a lower quality AS I’d search for a mid/late 1990s “wide body” 34’.
Were I again on the search for value I’d choose the family brand or Avion.
No RV is perfect. But you could give me a brand-new New Horizons and I’d put it up for sale that same day. And go buy a TT worth having.
* This post was edited 02/19/18 08:32am by Slowmover *
1990 35' SILVER STREAK Sterling, 9k GVWR
2004 DODGE RAM 2WD 305/555 ISB, QC SRW LB NV-5600, 9k GVWR
Hensley Arrow; 11-cpm solo, 17-cpm towing fuel cost
Slowmover wrote:
A ten year old AS is still new. A conventional TT is ready to scrap. That’s the simple black/white divide.
A ten year old AS is still new. A conventional TT is ready to scrap. That’s the simple black/white divide.
Umm.. no. not true at all.
An AirStream just like any other trailer design, can AND WILL LEAK.
Whether it is from the outside or from the inside water can destroy even an all aluminum trailer.
This has been discussed before.
The multiple pieces of aluminum shell being riveted with thousands of rivets making thousands of potential entry points for water can make finding an outside leak a daunting and overly expensive task.
How well the outside skin sheds the water is determined by how good the sealant and rivets are applied at the seams.
Fixing a leaking seam is going to require some specialized tooling making it not a DIY repair job..
You are also ignoring that aluminum like any other metal transmits heat as well as cold extremely well. This leads to moisture condensing on the INSIDE of the shell, that moisture has to go somewhere so it eventually wicks into any nearby wood causing well hidden rot.
Aluminum does have an additional enemy, SALT.
I live in the rust belt and my trailer sits about 40ft from the centerline of a busy road..
Salt spray in the winter is extremely hard on not just steel but aluminum.. I have to bring in any aluminum porch furniture from the outside for winter, otherwise I would be replacing it every two years as the salt spray attacks and weakens the furniture.
Internal water leaks form water lines, busted water heaters or overflows, yeah, AirStreams are no better when it comes to that and any wood will rot if left unrepaired like even a cheap $10K conventional trailer.
Believing a $150K trailer is going to last longer is a huge leap of faith..
I have a 30 yr old conventional trailer that I rebuilt and as long as I do some simple maintenance to keep it dry it should go another 30 yrs.. Yeah I bought mine TT cheap, but it also was cheap to repair.
Maintenance is key, I know where I could get a 20 yr old Airstream, it is sitting in a FIELD ROTTING AWAY since the owner IGNORED the water leaks.. It is too far gone to even think about resurrecting with so much damage.. But yet, someone would most likely be willing to pay what the owner wants ($25K) and then proceed to put $25K or more into repairs..
I would rather not blow my retirement funds on an Airstream, but if you want to do so that is fine by me.. I plan to retire and not have to work at all until I die just be able to say I have a Airstream..
Does that make them better or worse? No it just shows that they depreciate like the rest. Maybe slower depreciation but they don't hold their value like some think they do. Factor in interest if you're getting a loan and it's even worse cause you're paying more in interest because the purchase price is higher.
Do I think they're built better. Yes. I've watched a couple 1 hour walk thru videos on several and there's more than meets the eye.
Is a 19' Bambi Tommy Bahama worth $81K? Heck no.
Slowmover wrote: "Believing one has to be stuck with a pickup is a function of late-day ignorance. It wasn’t ever the norm. Nor need it be." What vehicle today other than a full size truck, van or Suburban like vehicle is adequately going to tow a 30 ft 10,000 GVWR rated trailer / 7800 lb dry weight trailer (Airstream classic 30)? Even a more modest Flying Cloud 26 has a dry weight of 6000lbs.
2005 Dodge Ram 2500 CTD,4X4,NV5600
2014 Adventurer 86FB
Gdetrailer wrote:
You might be a bit right, however, Airstreams are a "love it" or Hate it" type of trailer.
To be willing to pay the premium price tag, one must "love it".
While I appreciate the "nostalgic" look of the 1950's the design IS completely worn out and out of touch. Modern airplanes have changed looks but the Air Streams have not (and AirStream took their design cues from airplanes back in the day and looked "futuristic"). There is only so much you can do with the silver looking hot dog on wheels to update the look.
Have you ever been in one? The rounded outside takes a lot of inside space away and that IS a "fact" so they are not as spacious as a boxy RV.
Inside construction while based on a modular design approach tends to waste space also and does add weight.
Inside materials are no better than any other RV, they use the same paneling, appliances and so on.
That gets us down to the outside, yeah, shiny riveted aluminum sheets, what can I say, lots of ways of leaking.. Water proofing is an issue and leaks are well hidden for a long time. Aluminum does corrode/dull, and keeping it polished can be a huge task..
Yes, there are folks who love the 1950s look and are willing to pay a premium..
And there are folks like me who enjoy seeing the 1950s look while someone else pays the premium..
For me, they don't make sense to own, partly due to cost, partly due to the dated looks, partly due to same old interior materials as any other RV..
DownTheAvenue wrote:
This thread reminds me of the Hensley Arrow debate: many people bad mouth a superior product they have never seen or used. So it is with the Airstream and this thread: many people bad mouthing a superior product they have never used and probably could not afford so they degrade it.
This thread reminds me of the Hensley Arrow debate: many people bad mouth a superior product they have never seen or used. So it is with the Airstream and this thread: many people bad mouthing a superior product they have never used and probably could not afford so they degrade it.
You might be a bit right, however, Airstreams are a "love it" or Hate it" type of trailer.
To be willing to pay the premium price tag, one must "love it".
While I appreciate the "nostalgic" look of the 1950's the design IS completely worn out and out of touch. Modern airplanes have changed looks but the Air Streams have not (and AirStream took their design cues from airplanes back in the day and looked "futuristic"). There is only so much you can do with the silver looking hot dog on wheels to update the look.
Have you ever been in one? The rounded outside takes a lot of inside space away and that IS a "fact" so they are not as spacious as a boxy RV.
Inside construction while based on a modular design approach tends to waste space also and does add weight.
Inside materials are no better than any other RV, they use the same paneling, appliances and so on.
That gets us down to the outside, yeah, shiny riveted aluminum sheets, what can I say, lots of ways of leaking.. Water proofing is an issue and leaks are well hidden for a long time. Aluminum does corrode/dull, and keeping it polished can be a huge task..
Yes, there are folks who love the 1950s look and are willing to pay a premium..
And there are folks like me who enjoy seeing the 1950s look while someone else pays the premium..
For me, they don't make sense to own, partly due to cost, partly due to the dated looks, partly due to same old interior materials as any other RV..
Thank you for making my point so eloquently.
Gdetrailer wrote:
An AirStream just like any other trailer design, can AND WILL LEAK.
'
'
'
I have a 30 yr old conventional trailer that I rebuilt and as long as I do some simple maintenance to keep it dry it should go another 30 yrs.
An AirStream just like any other trailer design, can AND WILL LEAK.
'
'
'
I have a 30 yr old conventional trailer that I rebuilt and as long as I do some simple maintenance to keep it dry it should go another 30 yrs.
Yes, an Airstream, like every other TT made, needs maintenance.
I realize that a manufacturer's claims are not to be taken too seriously, but Airstream claims that 60% of all Airstreams ever made are still on the road. Even if you cut that claim in half, that is still a truly remarkable statistic. Much more so that someone having a single 30 year old TT that is still usable. Is an Airstream as good as Airstream says? Absolutely not. No product is as good as the manufacturer claims. Is an Airstream likely to last much longer than an SOB (Some Other Brand) getting exactly the same type of care? Absolutely yes. Is it worth the extra cost? That is the opinion of the buyer. Obviously, for me and DW, it was. For you, it may not be.
Quality costs, perhaps not the 3x of an Airstream but a certainly half again the current TT cost.
If you like an Airstream and can afford it, buy one. I splurged on a "Kromer" cap, and Bean boots because I like them. They will wear out just like their less expensive Wal-Mart equivalents. No matter, I like them, I need no other reason.
But in my case, even if Airstreams cost the same as standard TT. My DW still would not like the shape and I still need a slide.
Safe travels
rbpru wrote:
Quality costs, perhaps not the 3x of an Airstream but a certainly half again the current TT cost.
s
Quality costs, perhaps not the 3x of an Airstream but a certainly half again the current TT cost.
s
well stated. but like a Rolex watch, it is good for your ego.
bumpy
* This post was edited 02/20/18 08:17pm by Passin Thru *
I don’t take away anything from Airstream, they are nice. The problem I have is a tiny-tiny Airstream unit can cost thousands more than than my 28’ which I simply can’t swallow. I’ve asked at the camp sites and this is reality.
* This post was edited 02/21/18 05:22am by trailer_newbe *
2018 Jayco White Hawk 28RL
bumpy
The criticisms, as usual, come from those with no relevant experience or line by line comparisons.
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
As well as repair or replacement of functional parts like furnaces, air conditioners, wiring, addition of microwave ovens etc.
These repairs are very labor and time intensive to the point they are not really economically feasible. I applaud the efforts these folks put into the old trailers, but the reality is they are doing it for the love of the old trailer, not because it makes economic sense. They have more in just the restoration/refitting process than a new white box trailer costs.
Let's be honest here folks: people buy, use and restore these trailers because they like the unique, shiney, iconic shape. Not because they have any long term functional advantage.
Even if one were bought brand new and perfectly maintained, many owners would find the interior to be dated looking in 10 to 15 years, and would spend at least some money refitting the furnishings.
To each their own. You either want one or you don't, but potential owners should be honest with themselves if the dollar side of the equation is important.
EDIT: if a person wants to read an excellent thread on the resto of one of these trailers, go over to airforums, and search for millertimeUS thread on the resto of his '76 Tradewind. He started the thread in 2014, chronicles his restoration process. His project ended up very nice indeed. Lots of work, starting with a brand new custom fabbed main frame.
* This post was edited 02/21/18 07:53am by gmw photos *
Are you going to buy a used car from an Uber driver? Or the retired fellow down the street who never left town.
Restoration threads are for those who bought the former. Most need little if anything.
And there are MANY restoration or renovation threads. Some beautiful work in some instances. In fact, there’s a range not seen with any other brand. Should I state the self evident all over? Brand new or sixty years old. Those with little budget and those who’ll spend $30k on top of brand new custom-ordered price.
I’ve already said I have less than $30k into BOTH vehicles. I also have a lifetime of experience with them, more than fifty years, so knowing what to look for was a help. And, ZERO leaks.
“Budget” is a non-starter. An excuse.
.
MSchu wrote:
My wife and I also love the look of the Airstream trailers and could afford one if we really wanted one but I'm too frugal to buy one. Here's the way I look at the value/depreciation debate. if you're looking at a $40k conventional trailer vs a $120k Airstream, in 10 years the conventional trailer might be worn out, and have depreciated the entire $40k while the Airstream might have only depreciated $30k so it looks like a better deal. But if you had invested the $80k difference for that 10 years, it would have appreciated way more than the $10k difference. (If you had put the $80k in the stock market 10 years ago it would probably be worth over $200k right now!)
My wife and I also love the look of the Airstream trailers and could afford one if we really wanted one but I'm too frugal to buy one. Here's the way I look at the value/depreciation debate. if you're looking at a $40k conventional trailer vs a $120k Airstream, in 10 years the conventional trailer might be worn out, and have depreciated the entire $40k while the Airstream might have only depreciated $30k so it looks like a better deal. But if you had invested the $80k difference for that 10 years, it would have appreciated way more than the $10k difference. (If you had put the $80k in the stock market 10 years ago it would probably be worth over $200k right now!)
Buying an economy car and sleeping in discount motels will save even more.
But given that the AS will still be on the road in thirty years, you’ll be replacing a conventional about every five to seven given you actually travel in that span.
Or, with a budget of forty, buy used and replace what’s needed. And in a dozen years you’ll receive offers from other than RV salvage yards.
=============
I don't care about a RV with an indefinite lifespan. I have a finite lifespan. In 10 to 20 years I will be dead from old age.
The dollars I saved by buying a white box trailer, I have used for travel.
* This post was edited 02/21/18 09:10am by gmw photos *
Passin Thru wrote:
the one my friend used to ahve always reeked of smoke due to the carpeted walls.
the one my friend used to ahve always reeked of smoke due to the carpeted walls.
What is this "carpeted walls" you keep talking about. My 2017 Airstream does not have carpet on the walls. As a matter of fact, it has no carpet anywhere. That was a plus since DW was absolutely sick of the carpet in the Class C that we traded off when buying the Airstream. Is it possible that your friend put the carpeting on the walls himself, or a previous owner did, in an effort to insulate the tt better?
If you do not feel that way, oh well. You are not part of the Airstream demographic. Neither they nor the people who buy them care about the snarky opinions of others.
They proudly make what they make, either you feel it is worth the price or you can go buy something else.
I do not care for Airstreams but I do not like golf either; yet I certainly do not complain about folks who are willing to pay a ridiculous fee just to play on a prestigious area golf course.
While I prefer to waste my money on my own unique hobbies, I certainly am not going to begrudge others their pleasure.
Be safe.
Slowmover wrote:
...snip
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
...snip
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
SlowMo, you always say that in every one of these threads.
As always, it's total bunk about white box constructed trailers being, to use your words "a joke....junk before the finance note expires".
Folks that think like that really need to get out more. I'm right now sitting once again for the winter in a Arizona resort, surrounded by snowbirds from all over the country. Most trailers and fifth wheels here are of course "white box trailers".
Many, many of them are 15 to 20 years old, and appear to have many years left in them, still being enjoyed by their owners. Graphics are faded, but that's just cosmetic, and could be easily remedied if they wanted to.
MSchu wrote:
My wife and I also love the look of the Airstream trailers and could afford one if we really wanted one but I'm too frugal to buy one. Here's the way I look at the value/depreciation debate. if you're looking at a $40k conventional trailer vs a $120k Airstream, in 10 years the conventional trailer might be worn out, and have depreciated the entire $40k while the Airstream might have only depreciated $30k so it looks like a better deal. But if you had invested the $80k difference for that 10 years, it would have appreciated way more than the $10k difference. (If you had put the $80k in the stock market 10 years ago it would probably be worth over $200k right now!)
My wife and I also love the look of the Airstream trailers and could afford one if we really wanted one but I'm too frugal to buy one. Here's the way I look at the value/depreciation debate. if you're looking at a $40k conventional trailer vs a $120k Airstream, in 10 years the conventional trailer might be worn out, and have depreciated the entire $40k while the Airstream might have only depreciated $30k so it looks like a better deal. But if you had invested the $80k difference for that 10 years, it would have appreciated way more than the $10k difference. (If you had put the $80k in the stock market 10 years ago it would probably be worth over $200k right now!)
What you correctly pointed out is neither an Airstream nor another brand is an "investment", but both are a depreciating asset like most cars and trucks.
2016 6.7 CTD 2500 BIG HORN MEGA CAB
2013 Forest River 3001W Windjammer
Equilizer Hitch
Honda EU2000
"I have this plan to live forever; so far my plan is working"
Slowmover wrote:
Someone show me the threads where those shopping 1980s and 90s plastic trailers to use for extensive travel are located.
The criticisms, as usual, come from those with no relevant experience or line by line comparisons.
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
Someone show me the threads where those shopping 1980s and 90s plastic trailers to use for extensive travel are located.
The criticisms, as usual, come from those with no relevant experience or line by line comparisons.
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
The exteriors maybe. There are a S-load of gutted Airstreams around. Even in the boonies where I reside. Silverstreaks, too So why are they gutted? Rotted and moldy.
My camper is not a joke. It’s solid and will stay that way as long as I own it, and I stay at least semi-solid.
I would love to own an old Airstream and redo the insides. Somebody I love is dead set against the idea.
I have never felt my camper is junk. Worth every penny.
Kip
2015 Skyline Dart 214RB
2018 Silverado Double Cab 4x4
Andersen Hitch
Slowmover wrote:
Someone show me the threads where those shopping 1980s and 90s plastic trailers to use for extensive travel are located.
The criticisms, as usual, come from those with no relevant experience or line by line comparisons.
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
Someone show me the threads where those shopping 1980s and 90s plastic trailers to use for extensive travel are located.
The criticisms, as usual, come from those with no relevant experience or line by line comparisons.
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
Below is a photo, taken this fall right after Christmas, of our 2004 "plastic" trailer as I was getting it ready for our winter traveling. It has had extensive travel and is used heavily all year round. In fact, we are presently enjoying it in Texas for the winter. I expect it to last many more years also because I am almost anal about maintenance and keeping it leak free. Believe me, our trailer is no joke and it certainly is not junk!
Barney
![[image]](https://i.imgur.com/wtfv1Qbl.jpg)
2004 Sunnybrook Titan 30FKS TT
Hensley "Arrow" 1400# hitch (Sold)
Not towing now.
Former tow vehicles were 2016 Ram 2500 CTD, 2002 Ford F250, 7.3 PSD, 1997 Ram 2500 5.9 gas engine
2019 Ford F250 Lariat CrewCab Short Bed 4x4 - 6.2 Gas w/4.30 Axle
2016 Airstream Flying Cloud 30RB / Blue Ox Sway Pro / Rock Tamers
2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD
gmw photos wrote:
SlowMo, you always say that in every one of these threads.
As always, it's total bunk about white box constructed trailers being, to use your words "a joke....junk before the finance note expires".
Folks that think like that really need to get out more. I'm right now sitting once again for the winter in a Arizona resort, surrounded by snowbirds from all over the country. Most trailers and fifth wheels here are of course "white box trailers".
Many, many of them are 15 to 20 years old, and appear to have many years left in them, still being enjoyed by their owners. Graphics are faded, but that's just cosmetic, and could be easily remedied if they wanted to.
Slowmover wrote:
...snip
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
...snip
The fact remIns that the aero all-aluminum TTs have an indefinite lifespan. Anything else is a joke. Before the finance note expires, it’s junk.
SlowMo, you always say that in every one of these threads.
As always, it's total bunk about white box constructed trailers being, to use your words "a joke....junk before the finance note expires".
Folks that think like that really need to get out more. I'm right now sitting once again for the winter in a Arizona resort, surrounded by snowbirds from all over the country. Most trailers and fifth wheels here are of course "white box trailers".
Many, many of them are 15 to 20 years old, and appear to have many years left in them, still being enjoyed by their owners. Graphics are faded, but that's just cosmetic, and could be easily remedied if they wanted to.
does the word "troll" apply here?
bumpy
Passin Thru wrote:
I don't believe Airstream Superior. They are grossly overrated and the one my friend used to ahve always reeked of smoke due to the carpeted walls. I have a Arctic Fox and I would trade it even up for a new Airstream. IMHO they are good quality only but develop a leak in one of the riveted seams and you can junk it. I read somewhere the R Value was 7 for an Airstream, 18 for a Arctic Fox.
I don't believe Airstream Superior. They are grossly overrated and the one my friend used to ahve always reeked of smoke due to the carpeted walls. I have a Arctic Fox and I would trade it even up for a new Airstream. IMHO they are good quality only but develop a leak in one of the riveted seams and you can junk it. I read somewhere the R Value was 7 for an Airstream, 18 for a Arctic Fox.
My Bigfoot trailer had a carpeted ceiling and I liked it. Interesting you tout Arctic Fox. Their fifth wheels have carpeted ceilings.
Durb wrote:
My Bigfoot trailer had a carpeted ceiling and I liked it. Interesting you tout Arctic Fox. Their fifth wheels have carpeted ceilings.
Passin Thru wrote:
I don't believe Airstream Superior. They are grossly overrated and the one my friend used to ahve always reeked of smoke due to the carpeted walls. I have a Arctic Fox and I would trade it even up for a new Airstream. IMHO they are good quality only but develop a leak in one of the riveted seams and you can junk it. I read somewhere the R Value was 7 for an Airstream, 18 for a Arctic Fox.
I don't believe Airstream Superior. They are grossly overrated and the one my friend used to ahve always reeked of smoke due to the carpeted walls. I have a Arctic Fox and I would trade it even up for a new Airstream. IMHO they are good quality only but develop a leak in one of the riveted seams and you can junk it. I read somewhere the R Value was 7 for an Airstream, 18 for a Arctic Fox.
My Bigfoot trailer had a carpeted ceiling and I liked it. Interesting you tout Arctic Fox. Their fifth wheels have carpeted ceilings.
I think only the Silver Fox line does.
always keeps me up at night with my aluminum sided TT.
travelnman wrote:
There are some on Craig's list, I like the idea that snow is easier to remove if it sits outside. Did have a camper tell me her's leaked but it was older. Check for signs of this on used ones, they do resist dents better than regular aluminum side RV's that stainless steel does not delaminate either. If I could afford one I would.Hail
always keeps me up at night with my aluminum sided TT.
There are some on Craig's list, I like the idea that snow is easier to remove if it sits outside. Did have a camper tell me her's leaked but it was older. Check for signs of this on used ones, they do resist dents better than regular aluminum side RV's that stainless steel does not delaminate either. If I could afford one I would.Hail
always keeps me up at night with my aluminum sided TT.
Airstreams are made of polished aluminum not stainless steel.
Barney
Believe otherwise if you want about white plastic box lifespan. Delamination is the normal curse.
Spend the least and get the most applies to buying used and then keeping it up.
Same for tow vehicle. Aero means use a far better choice than a pickup. A TV that could also tow an open trailer for all those homeowner got to have a pickup excuses.
Trailers like these go bad when roof vents disappear or windows get broken. A tree branch destroys roof. AS is harder to keep up with, but the other brands aren’t hard to fix. I’ve replaced bathroom floors on new to me Silver Streaks twice. Unscrew everything necessary (no staples) and set outside or thru front door. It all fits thru that 27” wide opening. The way it was built. Sister in new, and reverse procedure.
Removing the belly pan can be harder, but it’s mainly an acquaintance with using rivets.
Gutted? Yeah, lots of geniuses find out they’re not near as smart as the career pros who design these. It’s beyond sad. Same for painting the interiors. Almost is never better.
Long term value, less work, higher resale. One design only.
Tows far better. Pickup will roll long before trailer. Don’t have to get off road just because of winds. Put family in a better vehicle with a car better safety record.
Run the numbers. Ask those who’ve had them decades. Nothing else compares when extensive travel is contemplated.
And ya’ll gave a good laugh about white boxes lasting. They’re permanently at the RV park and rotting the rest of the way. Come on thru Texas and see that in their thousands. Might be a few near ten years old at PPL worth owning (without delamination and in need of new roofs), but they’re the exception. Even where they “last” twenty years, it’s in fear of moving them.
I’ve watched them come apart on the highway. Not once. A number of times.
A Holiday Rambler could be worth keeping and restoring. A Boles Aero, certainly. But nothing else.
.
Slowmover wrote:
....much snippage....
And ya’ll gave a good laugh about white boxes lasting. They’re permanently at the RV park and rotting the rest of the way. Come on thru Texas and see that in their thousands.
....much snippage....
And ya’ll gave a good laugh about white boxes lasting. They’re permanently at the RV park and rotting the rest of the way. Come on thru Texas and see that in their thousands.
LOL. 'Ya gotta love a guy with a sense of humor ! Always telling funny jokes. Keep 'em coming Slo Mo !