[VAC] Re: Interior modifications

[RJ Dial <rj.dial@xxxxxxx>]

         Reply to:   RE: [VAC] Interior modifications
Well, this is like discussing religion, no-one agrees, and everyone else 
is wrong ;>)

I equate it to a little bit of history.

In the 1920's and early 1930's, big ornate radio consoles were made by 
the tens of thousands. Post WWII brought about shrinking of radio size 
and improvement of the reception & operation.  By the thousands the 
console radios were made into linen cabinets, spice racks, or had their 
workings modified or replaced.  Nobody thought otherwise - there were 
"plenty", and these appliances were "outdated". Today a Sparton Equisone 
or Zenith Robot-dial can fetch about $600 to $900, but one without the 
original innards can be had for $100.

Same can apply to Airstreams. There are plenty, but as each year passes, 
more and more bite the dust through neglect and "modifications". Let's 
face it, it is the old-time quality and period looks that attract people 
to vintage Airstreams rather than a new trailer or another brand/type.

I have been following Airstream sales closely for 2 years now for the 
website, and notice that a vintage unit in original and undamaged 
condition will generate quick activity and a sale.  As many of you know, 
we are looking for a 1950's Safari. We've come across the trail of 5 in 
the  last few months.  3 were in fairly original condition with few mods 
- and each had been snapped up almost immediately.  The other 2 were 
still for sale for months (one still is).

But you say your '60's or '70's trailer is not in that category?  No one 
will care if it is original?  "There are 100's of these trailers", and 
so on. That's what the owners of those old radios or the '50's Safari's 
thought, too.  For whatever reason that we who lived through the era's 
can't explain, the 1960 & 1970 interiors will be found fascinating, 
too.

That doesn't mean that the internals can't be improved, or 
additions/modifications can't be made using period materials & 
methods. Shoot, each Airstream was custom in it's own way.  For those 
who just have to have a modern or super-custom interior, there are many 
stripped out or heavily modified trailers out there, just ready for such 
a make-over.  And they are cheaper too.  That should be a hint right 
there.

Later,
RJ
VintageAirstream.com