DIY Network

Airstream: Trailer Inspection From "Classic Rides" episode DCLR-201

In this third segment of the first episode, host Kevin Tetz inspects the RV systems, such as gas and electric, with certified RV technician Xavier Taylor from Camper's Corner RV Center. They find that there are many items that are not up to code or need repair, including the LP gas system, the non-RV style refrigerator, the electric water heater, some of the plumbing, the battery and converter system and the gas cook top.

advertisement

	Host Kevin Tetz (right) and Xavier Taylor inspect the project Airstream.
	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Airstream Inspections

Kevin and Xavier found the following while inspecting the project Airstream:

• The gas tanks are original and are definitely in need of replacement because they are "way out of date."

• The regulator has been replaced before but needs to be replaced again, along with the hoses coming out of it which have cracks.

• The Overfill Protection Device (OPD) valve needs to be put in place of the current valves.

• The hitch looks fine except for some surface rust, which can be removed and repainted.

• The weight distribution brackets (figure A) are old and the Airstream needs a new equalizing anti-sway switch system.

• The electric tongue-jack and break-away switch will be updated to the newest style.

• The best type of refrigerator and water heater is one that runs on both electric and gas, so the originals will be switched out to the newer gas-electric version.

• The electrical system is located in the trunk (figure B) with the plumbing. This Airstream is a DC electrical system, or dual source, which has a converter if you are running off a 110 electrical hook-up or DC battery if running off of plain DC power. We need to use a converter to convert our 110 energy to 12 volt energy. The converter is located underneath the bedroom gaucho and will be replaced.

• The old battery needs to be replaced with a specific battery called a deep-cycle marine battery (figure C), which stores energy longer than a car battery.

• The project 1970 Airstream is a tandem-axle trailer, and the wheels and tires are old and worn -- and will be replaced with shiny new aluminum wheels and convert to radial tires.

• One of the leveling jacks is bent and will be replaced during the restoration.

• The furnace vent will be replaced due to safety issues.

• The cook-top has a bad gas valve in it and needs to be replaced due to safety issues as well.

• The old air-conditioning unit (figure D) needs to be replaced.

It's time to begin the restoration project, and first up is tearing out the interior -- in the next segment.

RESOURCES :

Airstream, Inc.
419 West Pike St.
PO Box 629
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629
Phone: 937-596-6111
Fax: 937-596-7939

Historical Photographs and Film
Vintage Airstream
Website: www.vintageairstream.com
and
Vintage Airstream Club
Technical Advisor and Founder: Bud Cooper
Website: www.airstream.net

Wally Byam Caravan Club (WBCCI)
Website: www.wbcci.org

Airstream Life Magazine
PO Box 74
Ferrisburg, VT 05456
Phone: 802-877-2900

GUESTS :

Xavier Taylor
RV Expert
Phone: 865-388-3298 (cell)