What a fun Dad to have!! He seems very patient and a great educator as well as being a great craftsman. Looks like he’s got a great team around him as well 🎉
I always dreamed of purchasing an Airstream at retirement. I’m 63 and now retired. Watching your videos has caused me to put the brakes on those dreams of owning an Airstream. Thank you for your candid content! I’ll be content living vicariously through your videos 👍
I have a 2021 Globetrotter, I didn’t have front end separation. However I did notice a gap appearing in lower corners of front hatch and some dimples, I had no torn aluminum or sheared rivets at this point. However my trailer had low miles in it so I called Airstream and they advised I bring in for evaluation, Jackson Center is only six hours away so I made appointment and in March 2024 I made the trip. Airstream said nothing is moving around but to make sure they removed my hatch and from underneath installed heavy duty aluminum gussets at lower corners of hatch. Gussets are bolted in place to the frame crossmembers front and side then hatch is riveted through gusset. This gives me peace of mind and I thank Airstream for stepping up and making the corrections to my Airstream under warranty. FYI, all new Airstreams with front hatch now have these new gussets installed upon assembly. I was told by tech at Airstream that these gussets are the new style that are much more robust than the previous ones used for repairs prior to 2024, the new gussets look just like the ones Vinnies uses in video.
I really want to applaud your discussion of what was provided for free in this video. Many times I have wondered and it keeps everything clear for your viewers. Please share more of this in the future...
It would be interesting to see if Airstream has integrated any of the upgrades to prevent this FES in the affected series of trailers on their new versions.
Loved how Vinnie demonstrated the effects using the wheelbarrow. That made so much sense and really helped understand the weight transfers and movement of the loads.
We took our 2021 30’ Globetrotter into get a diagnosis while your Airstream was in the midst of repairs. Vinnie explained while showing us yours as an example. Our warranty hasn’t even expired and Vinnie confirmed we do indeed have front end separation. We are making the choice to have Vinnie’s repair done. It’s extremely disappointing to have to have such a major repair done, but it is what it is and we love our Airstream. Thanks always for your honesty in your videos! 🤍
I get it. Vinnie's correction is so good, you'll be happy to know it's done right. Other rigs have similar issues to slides and variety of other issues that are fixed and keep happening. In our experience with our Airstream, once we correct something the right way, it stays that way.
@@fendr1962 I’m sure each rig is different, but I can say it was much less than I thought through Vinnie, and I have full confidence it’ll be done right the first time.
@@ourodysseylife So knowing what the cost was would give me some indication of what those types of repairs could cost me for my decision to buy and airstream or not.
@@fendr1962 This is our third trailer, first Airstream, our first trailer was in such bad shape it literally had to be replaced! We had to wait almost a year for the replacement. The second trailer, different brand, had slide issues as Mark stated, stapled together, difficult to heat and cool. Knowing what I’ll have to pay for repairs, I’d still choose Airstream.
The way he explained all of that is excellent! Reminds me of how my Econ professor in college explained all the economics theories. Used real life examples for EVERYTHING. I got a D in economics the first time I took it with a different professor, then re-took it with Randy Goodwin and got an A. Same tests. Same material. Just a better teacher and “storyteller.”
We also had FES on our 2018 with the front storage box behind propane. Repaired in NY upstate but I believe I like Vinnies approach better. It was a pricey repair but necessary for us to keep rolling and living our dream. Thanks for sharing this. I do however believe Airstream should design the frontend with more weight distribution from the factory. We were in our 3 year window hitch to bumper warranty they do not want to address it at the factory I can tell you that. Thanks for tackling this tuff subject. Safe travels
What a great video. I kept thinking I've seen his logo before. Then I saw the Flathead license plate. Made me smile. Lots of great information in this video.
not sure why the RV repair business is so sketchy it really is nice to see someone who truly cares about customers. i use a equalizer hitch someone stole the whole set up from storage i bought a new one. I think they are worth the money. Thanks for all the great videos
Also highly recommend a HD truck and getting rid if that weight distribution hitch. Between the backup cam and getting rid if ours I can hook/unhook incredibly fast, it saves a ton of time and aggravation.
Our, 2007, 27FB airstream has approximately 150,000 miles on her. We have been towing without an equalizing hitch for the last 10 years since we purchased our 2500 GMC. There is never sway, even when driving on two-lane road roads with vehicles as well as trucks approaching at 70 miles an hour. I,have to laugh when I see people towing a Basecamp or a Bambi and they are using distribution hitches. Someone has sold them a bill of goods.
I have to say the airstream repairs are my favorite video! Thanks for sharing all those info! A few months ago I purchased my first trailer and its a 2021 globetrotter 27fb that I got at a salvage auction! I have already fixed all the major problems and now only the cosmetics damage are left. We are planing a 6 months trip across the US next year thanks to your videos!!
WOW, I’ve never read the comments section before; there’s a lot of passionate people sharing their wisdom &/or experiences… Thank you Marc for the content and discourse. I would appreciate more content on the mitigation of SuperDutys towing an A/S with a front cargo bay (full of “SOLAR”); distribution bars, AirSafe Hitchs & truck airbags… I love LIGHT & TIGHT, and that my F350 H/O can carry my STUFF… Keep Living the Dream!!!
Vinnie is a pro. He breaks down problems so easily. The separation issue is highly concerning given the high ticket item the airstreams are. You'd think the design engineers would have considered the problem that Vinnie outlined. It blows my mind. Another reason I'm glad we opted to not buy one (we almost did recently). The hitch is pretty cool; very similar concept as the hensley but simpler setup.
Love the visibility and transparency - both from you two and from Vinnie - these are great insights and so much to learn regardless of what type of RV you travel with.
First I’d like to start off by saying how amazing it has been to follow your journey! And thank you for your transparency! My husband and I went back and just finished the 1st season (1st 6 month trip) and are now going through the “How To” playlist. We have decided that we really want to give the full time RVing life a go and the thought of it brings us so much joy and again, it’s something we really want to do. We are looking to buy our first RV over the next couple weeks, BUT, it’s also been so overwhelming… the choices of getting the right one, then after watching all the challenges your family (and others) come across, as well all the things one must remember to prevent things from going really bad, and as helpful/educational as all the “How To” videos have been, they also have us questioning ourselves and wondering if we can handle it… Do you have any suggestions, tips or words of encouragement as to how to overcome “doubt” or our “fears”?
Once you hit the road, all those fears will fade away. There are a lot of good Podcasts you can tune into that help while your driving. We enjoy Mike & Jen's podcast RV Lifestyle. All our videos can be watched in order per season. For a bit, we were changing RVs almost every year so lots to learn from our mistakes along the way! If you take your time and don't drive at night, you'll avoid at least half of the mistakes!
Thank you for the tips and the podcast recommendation! By the way, if you guys haven’t done the Northern Lights sightseeing in Alaska or Canada, maybe consider it for one of your future adventures. They look so magical! That’s certainly at the top of our list once we hit the road.
Most Excellent Video!!!!! I had the Beltline just starting to pull away and small bending at the corners of the front storage on my 2020 27 FC. The factory repaired saying they added bolts and I already had their smaller than Vinnies braces in place. So far no return of beltline pulling and bending at corners. I talked to Vinnie and he said the Blue Ox hitch doesnt stress the trailer as much as some others. I have a lift on the trailer so my rear end doesnt drag. It seems 30ft and longer have a higher chance of dragging due to departure angle because there is more length behind the rear tires to drag. I now keep an eye out on the front area as part of my general checks when towing. Thank you for the straight forward information.
Really like your vids. It’s cool that you’re going to travel through Visalia. Have lived here many years and love it here. Thanks for sharing your travels. I’m researching Airstreams for maybe me and the missus to escape the rat race.
Very interesting episode. The Airhitch looks good. We need one on our ute for New Zealand roads. We tow a 53yr old caravan & have so many bad roads here.
Those are awesome kind of shops to show how proud they are and the confidence they have in there work...few and far between finding them...well done guys...😊
Wow, ..... The mechanics of rivets, body molding 'skins' & Vinnie, the supportive joints on the corner & bottom parts to be bracketed expertise 💯 -- talent credentials. Thanks to the Mark & Trish narratives 👏
Ty for sharing!! To be able to see the breakdown of what’s involved in FES repair is important to me and I really appreciate it. You can see how labor intensive it is. Plus, being able to see and hear the famous Vinnie in person is great. However, it would’ve been nice to know- at least ballpark- what the FES repair would’ve cost you had you actually paid for it. I’m going to give Vinnie’s a call, regardless.
Genius video...dang Vinnie is exactly what everyoine says he is and his shop. I am hoping the Basecamps don't have these problems because they are shaped so different but still the same process. I know what to keep and eye on.
A lot of people in the Airstream community attribute FES to WDH's when used in conjunction with 3/4 and 1-ton trucks that were designed to tow heavy and don't necessarily need WD. That combination seems to put too much stress on what is now known as a weak area around the front storage compartment. Airstream is aware of the issue and has begun to brace that area better on the new production units. I have an Equalizer for my FC27FB with the front compartment and a RAM 3500 CTD SRW. I'm going to switch things up and tow on just the ball with some Torklift Stableloads and see how it handles that way. I've spoken to a few Airstreamers doing this and they have not had any issue with sway or porpoising. I plan to keep the Equalizer in the truck just in case I need to switch it up on the road for a while.
Totally agree! Love the channel and always look forward to Sunday nights! It's because of y'all we have an Airstream! Thank you so much for all you do for all of us! @@KeepYourDaydream And if you're getting a new truck, you should join the RAM-ily!
I am curious... I have a RAM 2500 Cummings and a friend who as the same vehicle and rig doesn't use a WD and claims he never had any sway issues and truck is level... The time savings alone would be awesome... Mark please let us know how it goes... and congrats on the new GT...
WoW... Thanks for going so deep.... Vinnie was GREAT! Just like you said... very transparent, and you can trust his company.I'm glad I have a Truck Camper Lol. How many Miles "smiles" did you travel last year? I remember you crossed the country twice and did it in Canada. You are my fav to follow. I look forward to Sundays, to catch your travels
Looks like a very good repair. Maybe it wasn't shown in the video, but I would liked to have seen some high quality sealant go in between, and coating, those dissimilar metals. Keep an eye on the repair for corrosion. We used polysulfide sealant in aircraft structural manufacture and repair and it would extend well to your Airstream. It's not just for aircraft. It's very well known for boats too. The front end of the trailer is obviously a high water intrusion area, and thus, salt. And you know well what salt does to metal. LOVE your channel!
So interesting about the front end now everyone that owns a airstream is now going to be checking theirs thanks for the heads ups not just airstream but any trailers safe travels
HI MARC & TRISHA & VINNY 👋 THANK YOU FOR SHOWING THIS I'LL PASS IT ON ! INTRESTING STEP BY STEP VIDEO FOOTAGE 📹 BE SAFE !HAVE FUN ! ENJOYED ❤ GOD BLESS YOU ALL ALWAYS ON YOUR ADVENTURES 🙏 THANK YOU 😊 🙏
Thanks y'all. Well done Vinnie!! Why doesn't Airstream do this from the outset??... not that I want Vinnie to lose business, but this should be engineered into the chassis during wall/skin installation of the coach.
After this episode I inspected my front storage compartment on our 2022 Globetrotter 27’ FBT. We only have 4000 miles on it but found two rivets missing so I reached out to Lloyd at Air Safe Hitches and he recommended a Series 5 hitch which I promptly purchased. I will also be giving it a review on my podcast Route 2 Adventure Thank you Marc and Trish for keeping us in the know as well as entertained.
Lloyd is an independent reseller of the Air Safe product, his website looks like the manufacturer which can throw people off. I found that out this past summer when I bought an Air Safe hitch. Absolutely love the new setup, I'm sure you're going to be just as happy. Safe travels!
Great job once again, Marc. Love your technical videos. Concerned, as we tow a Classic 33FB with a F350, using a Propride. Would like to hear how the Airsafe performs, compared to your Propride, especially for anti-sway. Safe travels!
Two different solutions. IMO - propride is mostly sway control. I experience little to no sway. In fact, I'm going to test to WD bars and I suspect I won't be able to tell. We'll see.
I understand more now. Not really using WD on the Propride, as the truck has a high payload rating. Love the anti-sway, though. Please keep us updated! @@KeepYourDaydream
Vinnie is the best! Nobody touches our AS but Vinnie. Marc, where did Trish get the flamingo light up necklace? Gotta have one! Thx for this outstanding video!
This is why I enjoy these videos, Ive always wanted an airstream in my retirement and know Im rethinking it. With all these issues they have I don't want the expeses
would be interested to know what the cost would have been for that repair ie. front end separation and what the price is for that special hitch. I own a grand design so not personally applicable but may be of interest to others as well as myself.
When you came into the Army Depot you had to pass through the guard shack at the gate. The first business you passed by on the right was where I caked home for many years. The dairy I worked for has a depot right there on Siena.
You have to love people that do things the right way and are proud of their work. I have to ask, if you had paid for the whole thing, what would the bill have been? Thanks and travel safe. By the way - glad you had a good stay in Nova Scotia - my home.
Marc, Great video. We are heading to Ronnie’s Airstream Nuts & Bolts as well as Vinnie’s Tallahassee location for ceramic coating in mid-February. Looking forward to to see what projects Vinnie did on your rig in addition to the FES project.
A couple of observations- To prevent having a 2” receiver and a bike rack on the back of the Airstream I have a front receiver on the truck and haul the bikes on the front of the truck. Also, to smooth out the ride I travel with a full tank of fresh water. 2013 Classic 30 2007 Toyota Tundra Crewmax Limited
As much as I love Airstreams, I’m glad that I sold my last one. They’re great trailers, better than most, but they have do sometimes have problems. I did have the Air Safe hitch, as we pulled with a very stiff riding 1 ton truck. A hundredish pounds of hitch, but worth it.
Talk about timing. RUclips RV tech @hownottobreakyourrv just put out a video about this particular issue and why he doesn't recommend buying this particular Airstream model due to it. Glad you found a reputable fix! Best...
That Airsafe hitch is where it's at. I got mine (a class VI) last year after I was popping rivets around the front compartment on my 25fbt. There are a couple of other brands that are kind of have the same idea but Airsafe is the only one that completely separates the tow vehicle from the trailer with that air bag for cushioning. I wonder if Vinnie uses the Equalizer hitch over Blue Ox for any particular reason?
With the numbers of miles that you travel a top notch weight distribution hitch with sway control is a must. That hitch looks like a winner and worth every penny.
Great episode. Thanks. I'm considering getting an AirSafe hitch. Not because I'm concerned about FES (we don't have an Airstream, we have a Safari Condo Alto F2414). Moreover, because the Alto is so light (slightly less than 3,000 lbs empty) and we tow with a 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 DuraMax, we tow "on the ball". The reason I'm considering the AirSafe is to perhaps be overall beneficial to the structural integrity of the Alto by reducing some of the jarring effect of bumps, etc. Now that you've had more time with the AirSafe, what's our thinking about it? Thanks. Cheers,
Wow, they did a great job with the separation on the front , the air stream looks great, 👍🏽 and you guys passed right through my neck of the woods, waving at ya from Folsom 👋🏽
I really liked this video even though I probably will never own an Airstream. This video pointed out how weight distribution hitches are not good for the trailer! With the properly sized tow vechicle and air bags or other means of eliminating "squat" of the tow vehicle, I contend WDH hitches are not needed. I tow without a WDH and this has eliminated much of the porpoising when going over expansion joints on highways especially at bridges! I have towed a 24' trailer 13,000 miles in 2023 including a trip to Alaska!
I plan on diving deeper into this and I'd also like to really understand if airbags (on the truck) is really doing anything other than making it *appear* level. Weight is not shifting from the back, but rather the chassis is just being lifted. More to come.
I totally agree with the recording if a shop will allow to record or not. I just returned from a week in Lafayette Indiana, we had our complete chassis suspension replaced with LiquidSpring 4 corner, 5 link system at the LiquidSpring HQ and manufacturing facility. They allowed me to video and interview each day, had no issues at all.
Thank you for this - our FES is much less severe than yours at the moment, so this was super helpful so we can be educated as we work towards getting it fixed. Can you share how long a customer should expect this type of repair to take?
I noticed that in your newer videos, and on your new Globetrotter, you do not have the air safe / equalizer hitch installed anymore. Did you not like it after using it for a while on the Flying Cloud? I’m considering purchasing this hitch and just curious on your current setup / thoughts after more miles with it. Love the show and your story over the years.
This is great. Thank you for posting. I also have a receiver hitch under my bumper for a bike rack and once in a while it drags. I'll now be sure to watch for signs of stress. I did replace the chrome trim with rubber trim recently and did not notice any problems, which is good.
The Flying Cloud has been reputed as susceptible to this problem in my research. I am sorry you guys had to deal with it but it's nice to find a "Vinny" out there to correct it. Love your videos, love the tone and info in your content. Please keep sharing!
Great Video! I'm still learning about my future purchase $$$$ BUT it will make it a much safer experience for sure. Love the Airsafe hitch, seems like it would be a game changer.
So no more weight distribution hitch? I sounds from the video that he was saying it could cause damage? We just bought a trade wind so trying to figure out which direction on hitch setup.
@urDaydream I'm thinking so too. I wanted my truck completely level so adjusted the WD accordingly. But on certain roads/speeds I get enough bounce that the whole family gets car sick. I'm thinking of dialing it back too by one bolt hole. The truck will not be level by a half inch, but maybe that's not so important considering the ride we are feeling. (And yes, still within the weight limits at the scale in either case)
Well..... my thoughts are a little different. Airstream built a beautiful trailer. And for the over loaded 1/2 tons out their the distribution system works great. softer suspension. When you load a 3/4 ton to do what they want the load to be, you over load the trailer beyond design spec. It will show in the trailer sooner or later. Mark, I'm glad you got the Airstream fixed but think about it. Unload the bars some. Love seeing you guys every week, and always look forward to seeing you. Stop by Petaluma some time I'll show you the town. Excellent, excellent job raising your kids.
That's great you got it fixed better than it was and Vinnie looks like he's a genius when it comes to that stuff. My biggest concern is i really how that Chevy was a loaner truck and you didn't get rid of your Ford. That would be a disaster!
My Dad Vinnie started with just one airstream in our backyard. His passion for craft and love for people made all this possible. Proud of him.
What a fun Dad to have!! He seems very patient and a great educator as well as being a great craftsman. Looks like he’s got a great team around him as well 🎉
Looks like he's very passionate about his work!
I have a cousin named Vinnie 😅
He has such knowledge.
Stole my line! Lol
@@Whateva67
I always dreamed of purchasing an Airstream at retirement. I’m 63 and now retired. Watching your videos has caused me to put the brakes on those dreams of owning an Airstream. Thank you for your candid content! I’ll be content living vicariously through your videos 👍
Love how transparent you are. Things like that always pays off.
I have a 2021 Globetrotter, I didn’t have front end separation. However I did notice a gap appearing in lower corners of front hatch and some dimples, I had no torn aluminum or sheared rivets at this point. However my trailer had low miles in it so I called Airstream and they advised I bring in for evaluation, Jackson Center is only six hours away so I made appointment and in March 2024 I made the trip. Airstream said nothing is moving around but to make sure they removed my hatch and from underneath installed heavy duty aluminum gussets at lower corners of hatch. Gussets are bolted in place to the frame crossmembers front and side then hatch is riveted through gusset.
This gives me peace of mind and I thank Airstream for stepping up and making the corrections to my Airstream under warranty.
FYI, all new Airstreams with front hatch now have these new gussets installed upon assembly.
I was told by tech at Airstream that these gussets are the new style that are much more robust than the previous ones used for repairs prior to 2024, the new gussets look just like the ones Vinnies uses in video.
This is a great video and explanation of overbuilt vs RV built.
I really want to applaud your discussion of what was provided for free in this video. Many times I have wondered and it keeps everything clear for your viewers. Please share more of this in the future...
So glad when a guy can find that EXACT vocation, they were meant to have!! Vinnie found his.
The Rivets tell the story.... good to know when purchasing a used rig also.
Wow listening to Vinnie you can tell he is a friggin genius.
I love when people are master craftsman. They must've had a combination of a good attention span, curiosity, and good teaching while they were young.
It would be interesting to see if Airstream has integrated any of the upgrades to prevent this FES in the affected series of trailers on their new versions.
The RUclips channel “long long honeymoon” have been going to Vinnies forever he is great!!
Vinnie, thanks for putting up with Marc and Trish so we could learn….heehee !
Blessings
Always enjoy seeing how repairs are made. This was a very worthwhile video, and I don’t even own an airstream. Thanks KYD!
Same here 😊
Always good to see craftsman talk about their work. Awesome episode
Extremely well prepared and produced. Not a word or camera out of place.
Loved how Vinnie demonstrated the effects using the wheelbarrow. That made so much sense and really helped understand the weight transfers and movement of the loads.
We took our 2021 30’ Globetrotter into get a diagnosis while your Airstream was in the midst of repairs. Vinnie explained while showing us yours as an example. Our warranty hasn’t even expired and Vinnie confirmed we do indeed have front end separation. We are making the choice to have Vinnie’s repair done. It’s extremely disappointing to have to have such a major repair done, but it is what it is and we love our Airstream. Thanks always for your honesty in your videos! 🤍
I get it. Vinnie's correction is so good, you'll be happy to know it's done right. Other rigs have similar issues to slides and variety of other issues that are fixed and keep happening. In our experience with our Airstream, once we correct something the right way, it stays that way.
Nice that you are able to get it done for free because you videoed it. But what will that job cost the rest of us if we needed that fix?
@@fendr1962 I’m sure each rig is different, but I can say it was much less than I thought through Vinnie, and I have full confidence it’ll be done right the first time.
@@ourodysseylife So knowing what the cost was would give me some indication of what those types of repairs could cost me for my decision to buy and airstream or not.
@@fendr1962 This is our third trailer, first Airstream, our first trailer was in such bad shape it literally had to be replaced! We had to wait almost a year for the replacement. The second trailer, different brand, had slide issues as Mark stated, stapled together, difficult to heat and cool. Knowing what I’ll have to pay for repairs, I’d still choose Airstream.
The way he explained all of that is excellent! Reminds me of how my Econ professor in college explained all the economics theories. Used real life examples for EVERYTHING. I got a D in economics the first time I took it with a different professor, then re-took it with Randy Goodwin and got an A. Same tests. Same material. Just a better teacher and “storyteller.”
We also had FES on our 2018 with the front storage box behind propane. Repaired in NY upstate but I believe I like Vinnies approach better. It was a pricey repair but necessary for us to keep rolling and living our dream. Thanks for sharing this. I do however believe Airstream should design the frontend with more weight distribution from the factory. We were in our 3 year window hitch to bumper warranty they do not want to address it at the factory I can tell you that. Thanks for tackling this tuff subject. Safe travels
Great show. Thanks
What a great video. I kept thinking I've seen his logo before. Then I saw the Flathead license plate. Made me smile. Lots of great information in this video.
not sure why the RV repair business is so sketchy it really is nice to see someone who truly cares about customers. i use a equalizer hitch someone stole the whole set up from storage i bought a new one. I think they are worth the money. Thanks for all the great videos
This is excellent. Really appreciate you and Vinnie showing how to spot front end separation and how his crew repairs it. Thanks for this video. 😊
Also highly recommend a HD truck and getting rid if that weight distribution hitch. Between the backup cam and getting rid if ours I can hook/unhook incredibly fast, it saves a ton of time and aggravation.
Our, 2007, 27FB airstream has approximately 150,000 miles on her. We have been towing without an equalizing hitch for the last 10 years since we purchased our 2500 GMC. There is never sway, even when driving on two-lane road roads with vehicles as well as trucks approaching at 70 miles an hour. I,have to laugh when I see people towing a Basecamp or a Bambi and they are using distribution hitches. Someone has sold them a bill of goods.
i like how vinnie speaks english for us one language people to understand.
just listening to him, he sounds like he is knowledgable and honest.
I have to say the airstream repairs are my favorite video! Thanks for sharing all those info! A few months ago I purchased my first trailer and its a 2021 globetrotter 27fb that I got at a salvage auction! I have already fixed all the major problems and now only the cosmetics damage are left. We are planing a 6 months trip across the US next year thanks to your videos!!
WOW, I’ve never read the comments section before; there’s a lot of passionate people sharing their wisdom &/or experiences… Thank you Marc for the content and discourse. I would appreciate more content on the mitigation of SuperDutys towing an A/S with a front cargo bay (full of “SOLAR”); distribution bars, AirSafe Hitchs & truck airbags… I love LIGHT & TIGHT, and that my F350 H/O can carry my STUFF… Keep Living the Dream!!!
Vinnie is a pro. He breaks down problems so easily. The separation issue is highly concerning given the high ticket item the airstreams are. You'd think the design engineers would have considered the problem that Vinnie outlined. It blows my mind. Another reason I'm glad we opted to not buy one (we almost did recently). The hitch is pretty cool; very similar concept as the hensley but simpler setup.
Wait……I wanted to see all the other items Vinny repaired! 😉
Great job Vinny!
Marc and Trish, thank you!
Love the visibility and transparency - both from you two and from Vinnie - these are great insights and so much to learn regardless of what type of RV you travel with.
One of your (& Vinnie's) BEST videos that I have ever seen!!! BRAVO Mark and thanks...GB
First I’d like to start off by saying how amazing it has been to follow your journey! And thank you for your transparency! My husband and I went back and just finished the 1st season (1st 6 month trip) and are now going through the “How To” playlist.
We have decided that we really want to give the full time RVing life a go and the thought of it brings us so much joy and again, it’s something we really want to do. We are looking to buy our first RV over the next couple weeks, BUT, it’s also been so overwhelming… the choices of getting the right one, then after watching all the challenges your family (and others) come across, as well all the things one must remember to prevent things from going really bad, and as helpful/educational as all the “How To” videos have been, they also have us questioning ourselves and wondering if we can handle it… Do you have any suggestions, tips or words of encouragement as to how to overcome “doubt” or our “fears”?
Once you hit the road, all those fears will fade away. There are a lot of good Podcasts you can tune into that help while your driving. We enjoy Mike & Jen's podcast RV Lifestyle. All our videos can be watched in order per season. For a bit, we were changing RVs almost every year so lots to learn from our mistakes along the way! If you take your time and don't drive at night, you'll avoid at least half of the mistakes!
Thank you for the tips and the podcast recommendation!
By the way, if you guys haven’t done the Northern Lights sightseeing in Alaska or Canada, maybe consider it for one of your future adventures. They look so magical!
That’s certainly at the top of our list once we hit the road.
Most Excellent Video!!!!! I had the Beltline just starting to pull away and small bending at the corners of the front storage on my 2020 27 FC. The factory repaired saying they added bolts and I already had their smaller than Vinnies braces in place. So far no return of beltline pulling and bending at corners. I talked to Vinnie and he said the Blue Ox hitch doesnt stress the trailer as much as some others. I have a lift on the trailer so my rear end doesnt drag. It seems 30ft and longer have a higher chance of dragging due to departure angle because there is more length behind the rear tires to drag. I now keep an eye out on the front area as part of my general checks when towing. Thank you for the straight forward information.
Really like your vids. It’s cool that you’re going to travel through Visalia. Have lived here many years and love it here. Thanks for sharing your travels. I’m researching Airstreams for maybe me and the missus to escape the rat race.
why can’t vinnie work on vintage RVS 😭😭 i would kill to have the service and attention to detail and explanation. just wow. amazing work.
What a great hitch and shop!!!
Your best repair/upgrade video to date! - Vinny is a real master of his trade. - Thanks! - Cheers!
Would be interested in a review between air safe hitch and shocker hitch
I can't wait to see the next one. We live in Visalia. Obviously there's a different tow rig.
Very interesting episode. The Airhitch looks good. We need one on our ute for New Zealand roads. We tow a 53yr old caravan & have so many bad roads here.
Absolutely love watching and listening to people with so much knowledge and skill. ❤
Great video! I enjoyed it even though the tech stuff was a little over my head. I loved the wheelbarrow demonstration.
Those are awesome kind of shops to show how proud they are and the confidence they have in there work...few and far between finding them...well done guys...😊
You guys are really awesome. I've really enjoyed following you all for the all these years. Stay safe and God bless you
Vinnie’s is the BEST! Such a class act
Wow, ..... The mechanics of rivets, body molding 'skins' & Vinnie, the supportive joints on the corner & bottom parts to be bracketed expertise 💯 -- talent credentials. Thanks to the Mark & Trish narratives 👏
Ty for sharing!! To be able to see the breakdown of what’s involved in FES repair is important to me and I really appreciate it. You can see how labor intensive it is. Plus, being able to see and hear the famous Vinnie in person is great. However, it would’ve been nice to know- at least ballpark- what the FES repair would’ve cost you had you actually paid for it. I’m going to give Vinnie’s a call, regardless.
Genius video...dang Vinnie is exactly what everyoine says he is and his shop. I am hoping the Basecamps don't have these problems because they are shaped so different but still the same process. I know what to keep and eye on.
You should be fine.
Now were all checking for front end separation!! Vinnies shop looks superb :)
A lot of people in the Airstream community attribute FES to WDH's when used in conjunction with 3/4 and 1-ton trucks that were designed to tow heavy and don't necessarily need WD. That combination seems to put too much stress on what is now known as a weak area around the front storage compartment. Airstream is aware of the issue and has begun to brace that area better on the new production units. I have an Equalizer for my FC27FB with the front compartment and a RAM 3500 CTD SRW. I'm going to switch things up and tow on just the ball with some Torklift Stableloads and see how it handles that way. I've spoken to a few Airstreamers doing this and they have not had any issue with sway or porpoising. I plan to keep the Equalizer in the truck just in case I need to switch it up on the road for a while.
I too am going to tow without WD just to see. I like the firm connection of a WD, but with 4000 pounds on my front axle, that's plenty of weight.
Totally agree! Love the channel and always look forward to Sunday nights! It's because of y'all we have an Airstream! Thank you so much for all you do for all of us! @@KeepYourDaydream And if you're getting a new truck, you should join the RAM-ily!
I am curious... I have a RAM 2500 Cummings and a friend who as the same vehicle and rig doesn't use a WD and claims he never had any sway issues and truck is level... The time savings alone would be awesome... Mark please let us know how it goes... and congrats on the new GT...
WoW... Thanks for going so deep.... Vinnie was GREAT! Just like you said... very transparent, and you can trust his company.I'm glad I have a Truck Camper Lol. How many Miles "smiles" did you travel last year? I remember you crossed the country twice and did it in Canada. You are my fav to follow. I look forward to Sundays, to catch your travels
What a nice guy, excellent information, looks fantastic, love that air hitch
Great stuff. Vinnie seems like a great guy and very professional!! Great video kids!!
Looks like a very good repair. Maybe it wasn't shown in the video, but I would liked to have seen some high quality sealant go in between, and coating, those dissimilar metals. Keep an eye on the repair for corrosion. We used polysulfide sealant in aircraft structural manufacture and repair and it would extend well to your Airstream. It's not just for aircraft. It's very well known for boats too. The front end of the trailer is obviously a high water intrusion area, and thus, salt. And you know well what salt does to metal.
LOVE your channel!
Good catch. We should have pointed out that we use a roll of the same tar sealant that airstream uses between the panels at assembly.
@@vinnielamica8704 I specifically came to the comments to see if anyone else mentioned this too. Thanks for clarifying!
Garret at Taps is great and I've known him since he was a kid. He just installed 5 Bilstien shocks on my e350 and now towing is a dream
A very diplomatic video so as not to throw the manufacturer under the bus. That is not typical of other “RUclips’rs.
So interesting about the front end now everyone that owns a airstream is now going to be checking theirs thanks for the heads ups not just airstream but any trailers safe travels
Yes, we had it on our first rig, but didn't know what it was. We were chasing the wrong problem because we didn't know it was related to deflection.
HI MARC & TRISHA & VINNY 👋
THANK YOU FOR SHOWING THIS I'LL PASS IT ON ! INTRESTING STEP BY STEP VIDEO FOOTAGE 📹 BE SAFE !HAVE FUN ! ENJOYED ❤ GOD BLESS YOU ALL ALWAYS ON YOUR ADVENTURES 🙏 THANK YOU 😊 🙏
Everyone should see this video regardless of make or model of there trailer .thanks great video
Thanks y'all. Well done Vinnie!! Why doesn't Airstream do this from the outset??... not that I want Vinnie to lose business, but this should be engineered into the chassis during wall/skin installation of the coach.
After this episode I inspected my front storage compartment on our 2022 Globetrotter 27’ FBT. We only have 4000 miles on it but found two rivets missing so I reached out to Lloyd at Air Safe Hitches and he recommended a Series 5 hitch which I promptly purchased. I will also be giving it a review on my podcast Route 2 Adventure Thank you Marc and Trish for keeping us in the know as well as entertained.
Lloyd is an independent reseller of the Air Safe product, his website looks like the manufacturer which can throw people off. I found that out this past summer when I bought an Air Safe hitch. Absolutely love the new setup, I'm sure you're going to be just as happy. Safe travels!
Great job once again, Marc. Love your technical videos. Concerned, as we tow a Classic 33FB with a F350, using a Propride. Would like to hear how the Airsafe performs, compared to your Propride, especially for anti-sway. Safe travels!
Two different solutions. IMO - propride is mostly sway control. I experience little to no sway. In fact, I'm going to test to WD bars and I suspect I won't be able to tell. We'll see.
I understand more now. Not really using WD on the Propride, as the truck has a high payload rating. Love the anti-sway, though. Please keep us updated! @@KeepYourDaydream
Vinnie is the best! Nobody touches our AS but Vinnie. Marc, where did Trish get the flamingo light up necklace? Gotta have one! Thx for this outstanding video!
This is why I enjoy these videos, Ive always wanted an airstream in my retirement and know Im rethinking it. With all these issues they have I don't want the expeses
Love the "Full Feature RUclips!" Much appreciated! ~Big C in the DP 📢 ::: Air Horn 📢 ::: ::: Air Breaks! ::: 🚌🚌🚌
Happy Sunday KYD family! Catching up on videos. Loved this one! Loved how detailed Vinnie was too.
would be interested to know what the cost would have been for that repair ie. front end separation and what the price is for that special hitch. I own a grand design so not personally applicable but may be of interest to others as well as myself.
So interesting to listen to Vinny.
Been waiting for this episode. Way better than the Cowboy debacle, o-well as Tom Landry would say “ Wasn’t our year. Well there’s next year.”
You mean "Wasn't our decades"? LOL. Maybe Mr. Jones should fire himself and hire Vinnie to be the GM.
When you came into the Army Depot you had to pass through the guard shack at the gate. The first business you passed by on the right was where I caked home for many years. The dairy I worked for has a depot right there on Siena.
I know nothing about what you were talking about, but I actually found this video fascinating Marc.
You have to love people that do things the right way and are proud of their work. I have to ask, if you had paid for the whole thing, what would the bill have been? Thanks and travel safe. By the way - glad you had a good stay in Nova Scotia - my home.
Marc,
Great video. We are heading to Ronnie’s Airstream Nuts & Bolts as well as Vinnie’s Tallahassee location for ceramic coating in mid-February. Looking forward to to see what projects Vinnie did on your rig in addition to the FES project.
A couple of observations-
To prevent having a 2” receiver and a bike rack on the back of the Airstream I have a front receiver on the truck and haul the bikes on the front of the truck.
Also, to smooth out the ride I travel with a full tank of fresh water.
2013 Classic 30
2007 Toyota Tundra Crewmax Limited
As much as I love Airstreams, I’m glad that I sold my last one. They’re great trailers, better than most, but they have do sometimes have problems. I did have the Air Safe hitch, as we pulled with a very stiff riding 1 ton truck. A hundredish pounds of hitch, but worth it.
Boeing needed Vinnie to design the "PLUG" doors on their 737 MAX 9!!!!
That hitch is amazing!cool instructive video!
Marc driving a GMC!? Can't wait for next week's episode 😮😂 Hopefully it wasn't something major with your beloved F250 and you will have it back soon.
Talk about timing. RUclips RV tech @hownottobreakyourrv just put out a video about this particular issue and why he doesn't recommend buying this particular Airstream model due to it. Glad you found a reputable fix! Best...
That Airsafe hitch is where it's at. I got mine (a class VI) last year after I was popping rivets around the front compartment on my 25fbt. There are a couple of other brands that are kind of have the same idea but Airsafe is the only one that completely separates the tow vehicle from the trailer with that air bag for cushioning.
I wonder if Vinnie uses the Equalizer hitch over Blue Ox for any particular reason?
I actually like both hitches.
@@vinnielamica8704 Thanks for the reply!
This video was awesome! We learned so much. Thank you KYD and Vinnie for showing all the details.
This is good stuff Marc! Thanks for ALL the detail.
With the numbers of miles that you travel a top notch weight distribution hitch with sway control is a must. That hitch looks like a winner and worth every penny.
Great episode. Thanks. I'm considering getting an AirSafe hitch. Not because I'm concerned about FES (we don't have an Airstream, we have a Safari Condo Alto F2414). Moreover, because the Alto is so light (slightly less than 3,000 lbs empty) and we tow with a 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 DuraMax, we tow "on the ball". The reason I'm considering the AirSafe is to perhaps be overall beneficial to the structural integrity of the Alto by reducing some of the jarring effect of bumps, etc. Now that you've had more time with the AirSafe, what's our thinking about it? Thanks. Cheers,
Wow, they did a great job with the separation on the front , the air stream looks great, 👍🏽 and you guys passed right through my neck of the woods, waving at ya from Folsom 👋🏽
I really liked this video even though I probably will never own an Airstream. This video pointed out how weight distribution hitches are not good for the trailer! With the properly sized tow vechicle and air bags or other means of eliminating "squat" of the tow vehicle, I contend WDH hitches are not needed. I tow without a WDH and this has eliminated much of the porpoising when going over expansion joints on highways especially at bridges! I have towed a 24' trailer 13,000 miles in 2023 including a trip to Alaska!
I plan on diving deeper into this and I'd also like to really understand if airbags (on the truck) is really doing anything other than making it *appear* level. Weight is not shifting from the back, but rather the chassis is just being lifted. More to come.
I totally agree with the recording if a shop will allow to record or not. I just returned from a week in Lafayette Indiana, we had our complete chassis suspension replaced with LiquidSpring 4 corner, 5 link system at the LiquidSpring HQ and manufacturing facility. They allowed me to video and interview each day, had no issues at all.
I really enjoyed this video. This is RVing. Stuff you need to know.
I like the mechanical stuff, and the setting up and taking down.
Very instructional and explained FES extremely well. Thank you!
Thank you for this - our FES is much less severe than yours at the moment, so this was super helpful so we can be educated as we work towards getting it fixed. Can you share how long a customer should expect this type of repair to take?
I noticed that in your newer videos, and on your new Globetrotter, you do not have the air safe / equalizer hitch installed anymore. Did you not like it after using it for a while on the Flying Cloud? I’m considering purchasing this hitch and just curious on your current setup / thoughts after more miles with it. Love the show and your story over the years.
This is great. Thank you for posting. I also have a receiver hitch under my bumper for a bike rack and once in a while it drags. I'll now be sure to watch for signs of stress. I did replace the chrome trim with rubber trim recently and did not notice any problems, which is good.
The Flying Cloud has been reputed as susceptible to this problem in my research. I am sorry you guys had to deal with it but it's nice to find a "Vinny" out there to correct it. Love your videos, love the tone and info in your content. Please keep sharing!
Sorry exspenses, thank you Trish and Mark for ALL your videos, Ive learned alot from you two. Been writing it down
Great Video! I'm still learning about my future purchase $$$$ BUT it will make it a much safer experience for sure. Love the Airsafe hitch, seems like it would be a game changer.
So no more weight distribution hitch? I sounds from the video that he was saying it could cause damage? We just bought a trade wind so trying to figure out which direction on hitch setup.
I don't know yet, but it could have contributed some. I am going to dial it down some.
@urDaydream I'm thinking so too. I wanted my truck completely level so adjusted the WD accordingly. But on certain roads/speeds I get enough bounce that the whole family gets car sick. I'm thinking of dialing it back too by one bolt hole. The truck will not be level by a half inch, but maybe that's not so important considering the ride we are feeling. (And yes, still within the weight limits at the scale in either case)
I suspect all the weight from the solar wasn’t part of Airstreams design. Great episode on the resolution
Well..... my thoughts are a little different. Airstream built a beautiful trailer. And for the over loaded 1/2 tons out their the distribution system works great. softer suspension. When you load a 3/4 ton to do what they want the load to be, you over load the trailer beyond design spec. It will show in the trailer sooner or later. Mark, I'm glad you got the Airstream fixed but think about it. Unload the bars some. Love seeing you guys every week, and always look forward to seeing you. Stop by Petaluma some time I'll show you the town. Excellent, excellent job raising your kids.
That's great you got it fixed better than it was and Vinnie looks like he's a genius when it comes to that stuff. My biggest concern is i really how that Chevy was a loaner truck and you didn't get rid of your Ford. That would be a disaster!