[VAC] Introduction

[Jon Fitz <jon.fitz@xxxxxxxxxx>]

I thought I should introduce myself as a new VACList member.  

My name is Jon and I live in SC.  My wife, Jennifer, and I are long-time
campers who began our married life by touring the Colorado plateau for 7
weeks in a home-made camper.  Although it didn't look like much (it began
life as a plumbing van) it really worked.  Of course, our honeymoon was
incomprehensible to most of our relatives, but probably is no surprise to
many here. 

We have since built another unit from a nicer, newer van.  This was as much
hobby as necessity, since I'm an engineer and love woodwork.  The newer van
was also done in anticipation of having kids.

My wife and I always thought Airstreams were cool, but never had a
compelling reason to expand beyond our van.  Our compelling reason is now 17
months old, and will be joined by another in February.  

So, Jen and I are now looking for an Airstream to support our habit.  I have
looked extensively at other brands but we have concluded that: a) most of
them are poorly built, b) VA's were built with a design philosophy much like
my own and c) you simply cannot beat an Airstream for style and cool-factor.

I am leaning towards a 60s or 70s model.  I think that 25' is the minimum
length for our longer-range plans.  However, I would like to limit weight,
as well.  Although we have an E-250 rated for 7400 lbs. I am hesitant to
reach that limit since we mostly camp in the mountains.  We really want a
rear bedroom.  For budgetary reasons, we expect to get a fixer-upper. 
Budget aside, my wife looks forward to my next "European hotel" style
interior job, so it's a good excuse for me to have some fun.  I'm trying to
learn a lot so that I can select the right foundation for a considerable
investment of sweat equity.

So, that's who we are and why I'm here.  I'm applying for a "friends"
membership, but of course can't be a full member until my quest is complete.
I will probably just lurk most of the time and learn.  However, if anyone is
interested and talkative, here are some topics I'm trying to learn about. 
Please do not be offended by the number of questions.  I don't actually
expect answers to them, but you never know.

-How does one spot leaks in a unit for sale?
-How does one spot tail sag?
-Are there any other major issues to look for in a unit for sale?
-Did the weight per foot of AS change considerably in the 60s & 70s?
-Does anyone have recommendations about weight & length based on towing with
a similar van?
-Where are all the rear bedroom units--or are there very few?
-Is it difficult or expensive to renovate showers and toilets?
-Is the plumbing likely to need replacement if not burst from freezing?
-What about gray water tanks?  Are they really that useful?  How hard is it
to add one?  When did they become standard?
-What's the best way to find a unit fairly close to home?  Most of the
listings are too far away to reasonably evaluate before a purchase.
-Are all the old parts pretty much available and if so are they reasonably
priced?
-Is there a reference on the evolution of construction and interior design
of AS's?

Thanks for any assistance.  Hope this wasn't too long an email.  Looking
forward to being on the road.

Jon jon.fitz@excite.com