Good points, and with that said, 85% of all Airstreams every made are still in service. No other trailer manufacturer comes close to this figure and Airstreams have been around a lot longer than most brands. Additionally Airstreams have by far the highest value retention of any other brand.
85%, please state proof. I can show you dozens if Airstream parked for years with the floors rotted and fallen to the ground, rusted, interiors beyond repair, at my RV resort there are 2 that have basically been abandoned and the rear ends rusted abd open and rotted. 85%? No way. Stop the lies and propaganda.
Great video. We were warned about the door lock situation by the dealer when we purchased our Airstream! So, we are always aware, but still lack a plan to store extra keys. This is a good wake up call. And yes, the steps and door closure are our two biggest challenges. Other than that, we LOVE our Airstream! Have a fun day🤗
Appreciate your comment Deborah. If you use only the dead bolt lock your lockout experiences will be minimized. Also, here is another of my videos on preventing lockouts/ins. Lockout Blocker: ruclips.net/video/VHNlYtOZ6cU/видео.html
Thanks for being honest. I am an aircraft mechanic for a major airline. We would NEVER put up with these discrepancy's. Airstream wants a premium price for their product [ new and used ]. Well it had better preform ! I am in the market for a Airstream, I will gladly reduce my offer to a dealer or private party based on this and many other issues. Used does not warrant the price of a new unit. Too many people think just because they own it it is worth more money.
You will find that in the Airstream community many have drank the Kool-Aid and can find no wrong. They are a great product but require special care and attention unlike other RV brands. Good luck on you buying journey and check out my book (link in video description.)
Exactly, I’ve noticed the Airstream cult, that are delusional, just to justify a bad purchase. They’re in total denial, while the camper is breaking down in front of their own eyes. $4-6k per panel is insane. How many campers can you buy for $6k, many.
It BLOWS my dam mind how Airstream hasn't fixed the front end separation issue knowing dam well it's a problem that is easily corrected. I also can't get passed the horribly uncomfortable sitting situation. The cushions are like sitting on a pad of concrete. For pete's sake, they should put a real couch in them. Oh but wait, if you want a couch, you have to pay double for their "pottery barn" edition or the classic model that's 33' long. As much as I love them, I'm still struggling with buying one.
2014 Flying Cloud - 23FB. No lockouts whatsoever, but when leveling, sometimes it's more difficult to open. A bit of hail damage on the roof, but no leaks, so we just let it go.
Zipties or a very, very good magnetic key hider works great. I'm a trucker and I have to say that keeping a spare tied down somewhere out of the cab is a life saver. So yeah keep a spare attached to your tow vehicle and another on your rv trailer. It can save your life. Even if it means you have to struggle to get your spare out from its spot. it's better than having to walk miles and miles risking alot more than a dirty set of clothes. I once was stranded in the middle of nowhere and had to cut a jiggle key from a shoulder road marker to get in my truck it would have given me a heart attack if I didn't have my multi tool....
Our solution for getting locked out was to buy a lockbox (the kind that real estate agents use) and store an extra set of keys in a hidden location. Even if someone finds the keys, they still have to either break the code or breach the lock. We have a wheel lock on our Airstream, and we don’t store an extra key for that in the lockbox so the trailer itself can’t be stolen.
Our used airstream came with 2 nasty creases (on the end cap) from being backed into a door that wasn’t fully opened. We got a mobile “paintless dent repair” specialist to come work on it. It’s not perfect, but most people don’t spot it and it was a couple of hundred bucks and took about an hour. Your mileage may vary.
Thanks Jack for the great reminder how easy it is to damage the aluminum shell. We have limited control over hail damage... but can control damage when backing up into a campsite, making turns, where we park in public areas, monitoring air pressure and lug nut torque to prevent an accident and so on. We have a 2016 Int FBQ so the warnings about the steps and front separation don't apply to us, but we always enjoy the videos!!
I have a 1987 airstream and when we got to the campsite two weeks ago I couldn't open the deadbolt. I was lucky I had left one window open (thank Goodness). I cut the screen, climbed in , disassembled the deadbolt mechanism, cranked on it harder than I felt comfortable with it but it popped open. Thanks for the good vidii
We have owned 2 AS. A 2017 International 23D and now a 2019 FC RBT. Did the door modifications on both units as directed on AirForums. We also carry a portable step similar to yours. We do use the steps but we are both fairly light. If you are a larger person they will have some flex. No front or rear end separation with either unit. We are very careful with our WD hitch set up as to not over stress the frame. We do love our AS but as with any RV you have to be handy and do proper maintenance. Extra set of keys hidden away is a great idea and I always have TV keys hidden away also. Nice video with some good tips.
Thank ytou very much, Jack. This is one of the most honest Airstream videos I have found. We haven't purchased one yet. But it's good to know what you are getting into.
I really appreciate your comment. As compared to other RV brands I'm still in my Airstream but like you said you need to be knowledgable. Please check out my book, it may help. amzn.to/43vCDTu
Airstream is better than 99% of the other RV out there.. and the resale value proves it. Why? Because a lot of RV out there are just glued and stapled CRAP. So, if you have an Airstream, be comforted that the wheels will not fall off.. the top cover will not fly off.. that wood frame will not fly off or break away.. or many others things that just never happens on Airstreams.
Have many of these issue. 1) At the dealer now for front frame separation. 2) Have issues with the step so I use the same step you have. 3) Was just locked out on my last trip for the first time. Fortunately, I had my keys on me. Plus have a spare set in the truck.
I guess for you this video was BINGO! Sorry for your bad luck but its all part of Airstream ownership. Appreciate your comment and thank you for watching.
Ty I was debating between the airstream and a more rugged off road model. This video helped me decide, you’ve saved me money and what sounds like a lot of Hassel’s.
Glad I could help, not sure what decision you made but we need input from all directions sometimes. Thanks for watching and please subscribe even if you don't go with an Airstream, most of my content is for all RV'ers. :)
Jack, Another great informational video. I will check for front end separation tomorrow. I have never been locked out of my trailer (knock on wood) BUT, I do have a second set of keys that are kept outside in case I need them. My major complaint is the ZipDee awning (electric). Stay safe and I look forward to your next video.
In 4 years of owning our Classic 30 we experienced (suffered with) the door lockout issue, bolt falling out of the step, and never having our electric Relax awning work reliably.
Those are the common issues with Airstreams. I didn't address the awning problem in my video because I have the manual awning and I have no direct experience with the electronic model but had read a lot about it. Thanks for watching and I hope you Subscribed to the channel.
We have a 1976 Airstream motorhome. It is still in one piece. We have had other rvs that rot away in 15 to 20 years. The problem with an Airstream in Texas in you can't keep them cool. In the 70's they used the pink fiberglass insulation. I hope they are using neoprene like the Prevosts or atleast Styrofoam now. . But suspect they are more concerned about the look then the usability.
I have not been locked out but always carry a key and a duplicate in truck. In noticed the dealer service walkthrough tech would always re open the lock lever to the left when exiting rather than let it gradually shift midline and then right side to lock.
Rust on the frame and internal water damage would be the top two items to investigate. If buying to restore it really depends on how much work you are willing to do...on the other hand, if buying a ready to camp Airstream you may want to engage a professional RV inspector. That will run several hundred dollars but may save you thousand down the road. Good luck and thanks for watching.
My 2018 FC had one bolt fall out of the step rendering it unusable temporarily. There are several small rivets to drill out and a thin panel to bend down. The bolt was easily reattached to the proper location using thread lock (blue strength). Then some pop rivets finished the job. Irritating but easy to fix.
Good information. The other thing is they are very low and do not like forest service roads with water drainage ditches cut across them . Thanks for the video
Sure they all can happen… maybe… our biggest problem was with the power awning… swapped for a manual one.. no issues, needed the door realigned.. dealer did it .. been perfect ever since… stair lube is your friend no issues, never locked in our out but did the handle mod for preventing a potential issue. No front end separation or rear end for that matter.. and aluminum panel damage.. yup. accident.. insurance paid for fix.. Airstream is still the best option from what I can see.. you want a travel trailer or any RV with no issue… doesn’t exist.. stay in hotels
The Airstream Travel trailer looks just as good crushed as it does in use. I like my 33FB Airstream because it’s so light that my 12k forklift can pick it up and set it on top of a shipping container during flooding here in Florida.
Look at Northwood or Outdoors RV. They aren’t perfect but they are built for actual camping, Forest Service/gravel roads and they aren’t built in Indiana.
I sprained my ankle badly on a set of RV steps that were flimsy and had previously been bent. Also people forget to put the steps up and bash them into something. That bends them. Dangerous for everyone.
We have had 2 of those issues ... so far. We have a 2003 22' CCD. (1) We got locked out a few years ago, went to a locksmith to break us back in, then had to use a screwdriver to open the door until I got the repair parts. (2) We had shell separation in the back. It has been an awful experience. Water leaked in for a long time before we were aware of the problem. Part of the floor rotted in the back. The repair was difficult and tedious, and I will never be sure I did a good enough job. We have had no step problems, but our step is an older, simpler style and has worked fine. We have had other big, ugly problems but they are not part of your kryptonite list. Sadly, our Airstream is a lemon.
Sorry for your problems Michael but unfortunately your experiences are pretty much common failures experienced by other owners. Good luck going forward and thank you for watching.
Thank you for your honest opinion of the sheer bs quality and pricing of Airstreams. They can cut their man hours in half, with the door now, we know, it’s still a piece of crap. Stop bragging about the door.
Hi Jack, thanks for this episode. You hit the nail on the head, I’ve experienced both the step and door issues. May I also suggest checking your door hinges frequently to assure they are tight. While the door is open give it a gentle tug upward and watch the hinges, if they shift you’ll need to remove the adhesive strips covering the screws, tighten and replace the strips.
Great tips on the hinges and I'll check that. Appreciate your kind comments and as always thank you very much for watching. Hope to see you down the road.
Husband was mysteriously locked out of our AS 2022 Atlas. .just locked itself up at a horse show one night. Fortunately he found a locksmith still on duty that night. We now have a 2017 Classic and will be sure to have spare keys hidden somewhere.
Smart thinking. Just remember to only use the deadbolt and not the handle latch. You may also want to check my video "Stop Lockouts." Thank you Kari for watching.
So basically don't ever actually use your air stream as it might get damaged? However, I agree with then tip about the locks, I never use the door lock, I only use the dead bolt. Our 2020 Caravelle was christen by the wife backing our Aluminum Tesla Model S into the aluminum airstream. About $2,000 worth of damage each and hard to repair. I pulled the den out in both, but could not get it completely straight, but now I don't have to worry about the first dent and it is on the hookup side so not really that big of a deal.
I was locked out once and luckily the window beside the door was opened,I just sliced the screen and was able to open the door,it has been a few years,the screen is still not repaired..Also my brother was cutting the grass an a little rock broke the door window,i just covered both sides with metal tape..
My 2018 Globetrotter is in the shop right now getting a new roof thanks to hail. $51K (CAD). Insurance is taking care of it, but now I’m very paranoid about future trips in the prairies.
I'm surprised insurance didn't total your Airstream. Wish I had some good advice for you but its hard to control mother nature. Just hope you don't live in a hail prone area. Good luck.
Thanks to you we just cancelled our order. They said they will give us down payment back. The sales person said never to show at the dealership ever again.
The main problem with AS is that they are stuck in the 60's with no slide outs, with the already smaller interior volume because of the roof radius they need to add a slide out, if they can't figure how to do this, then they are lost
A few years back Airstream did offer slides on at least one model and you can sometimes see those in campgrounds. For the people that like them spaces doesn't seem to be an issue. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
@805gregg….if you don’t like the Airstream because it doesn’t have slide outs, then do ‘t buy one. Slide outs bring as least as much, if not more, grief than any benefit they offer. The structural requirements alone are substantial and the power mechanisms are another layer of problems. Then, there is the leak potential. No thank you, I like my Airstream as built. Want more space, buy a longer one!
All RVs have issues and even in view of these know Airstream issues Airstreams are still a good choice. Appreciate your comment Randy and thanks for watching.
I GAURUNTEE you that an Airstream will give you less problems than fiberglass and staples junk. I used to build fiberglass junk trailers at the factory...it is all junk.
Glad you found a fix. I'm doing a review this week on a device which prevent the door from locking you out, stay tuned for that. Thank you for watching.
I have a 1987 Airstream Sovereign 25ft twin rear bedroom center bath and have always been very careful in the care and use of it. I too use an aluminum step to save the factory folding step. It is kept inside a big steel building when not in use and today that trailer looks as new as it did in 1987. In my view these were the best made Airstreams of all time
I too keep mine in a steel building and it makes a huge different on how it ages. I appreciate your comment Bill and thank you for watching. Please share my videos with your friends and Subscribe if you haven't already. :)
Great question and you are correct about water intrusion. Airstreams do have seams on the roof that require periodic inspections and maybe new caulk. Overall I feel Airstream "leak" must less than traditional build RVs. But I have seen stories about finding Airstreams that have sit for years and years out in the open and didn't have water inside; wish I could believe all of that but I don't. Keep up with the roof inspections and you will be fine. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
@@LandingZoneHome thanks. Appreciate your reply. I have a Friend who owns an Avon and He had to deal the roof one rivet At a time. Fortunately it worked. He used, Through the Roof Sealant.
Yes they can leak, and not just from the roof. and any holes in it. They can leak from exterior lights, windows, panel overlaps, the rear bumper and even the rivets. Since 2021 they have used composite flooring to reduce damage to the (old plywood) floor caused by water leaks. Get your airstream leak tested every other year.
Is insurance higher on an airstream compared to a fiberglass RV? I am guessing only an insurance company could tell us do to comparing apples to oranges on cost of each. Do insurance companies see an airstream as more fragile?
Just make sure you have insurance on your Airstream because all fingers will point to the owner. Thanks for watching and please share the video on your social media. :)
Just because road objects and shopping carts are your personal kryptonite, doesn't mean Airstream's aluminum design is useless. You're not an engineer. Probably shouldn't be driving either if parking lot scenarios are a challenge.
One morning we couldn't open our door to take dogs out and then alittle fear set in thinking what happens if it catches on fire My hubby finally got it open but immediately put some tools inside. He had to realign the lock plate and tighten everything.
hundred grand ??? should be perfect ..! , think i will stay with my Rockwood Mini Lite ...fifty grand . , btw , last summer i was camping in northern Ontario and a couple set up their Airstream beside our camper , lo and behold this Airstream had a slideout !!! , i never knew that Airstreams had this option ...have you ever heard of this ??
I use 3 cinder blocks for step's. Can leave them out and they don't break or blow away. I'm fixing up my 1978 airstream camper so I can live in it. He must be talking about the newer airstreams. Company's tend to skimp on the materials after a while of being in business. It takes quite a bit to damage my airstream.
I’ve always liked the Airstream aesthetics but I wouldn’t buy one even if I had the money. I’m a boatbuilder by trade and it seems they are poorly built boats? Cool looking though!
We were locked out when putting breakfast dishes back in the Airstream. Four hours later and $75 poorer we finished the dishes just in time for lunch. That was 9 years ago. In today’s time the cost would be double that!
Thanks for sharing and glad you apparently did not have pets or children left inside. I will be doing a review on a device to prevent the lockout so stay tuned for that. Good luck down the road.
I know the feeling oh too well. Appreciate your commend and thank you for watching. It won't help with your doo issues :) but you may want to check out my Airstream book: amzn.to/3VmEhCW
If you're dumb enough to spend that kind of money for a modern Airstream...You Deserve what you get... There's a big difference from the old-time Airstreams to the new stuff... 'Nuff said!!!... Thanks for posting this video😊😊😊
IMHO, the Achilles Heel of Airstream is the poor insulation and inability to remain comfortable in hot weather. That's the reason I wouldn't buy one, as much as I like everything else. Bt hey, I'm in Texas, so ...
Sounds like Airstream has a poor relationship with its customers. And they need to wake up and realize this. The mato the customer is always right should be adopted by Airstream as a law for the entire corporate body. If you lose your reputation you will lose your credibility and your customers.
Overly dramatic. Kryptonite? Hardly. 12 years of ownership with one lockout in year one. Check - hide spare keys. Many heavy hail storms with no damage. Shell separation - no. Collision damage - well, sure it can happen, that’s what insurance is for.
It's durable for sure, just look at the percentage of units manufactured that are still on the road, somewhere over 60 percent. You just have to take care of them and be very careful. Thanks for watching.
Glad you got something from the video but I think it is mostly about poor engineering decisions and not that much on quality. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
I do know that Airstream is watching; while at the Mothership they gave me some feedback on my Front End Separation video. They didn't like it. but I hoped it would be a learning experience for everyone :) Thank you for watching and hope you can Subscribe.
Thanks Jack for the great info , What the hell is AS doing about these issues , you pay 100,000 thousand dollars for these lemons 🍋 with these kind of issues ? No thanks , their design & engineers need to go back to the drawing board or find another line of work . Ridiculous. Another American company ripping off the consumer, sounds like it’s rampant in the RV industry. Thanks for saving me my time & money , I’ll look elsewhere for a different RV company. Renegade or Showhauler instead. 👍🤛⚾️
Doesn't really matter what RV you get, you just have to be aware of what you are getting (bad and good stuff) and always keep your expectations reasonable. Thanks Bob for watching.
All RVs have issues but overall I have found Airstream to have some of the best quality in the industry. Just be educated on what you are buying. Good luck and thank you for watching.
Good points, and with that said, 85% of all Airstreams every made are still in service. No other trailer manufacturer comes close to this figure and Airstreams have been around a lot longer than most brands. Additionally Airstreams have by far the highest value retention of any other brand.
So true. I thank you for the comment and for watching.
85%, please state proof. I can show you dozens if Airstream parked for years with the floors rotted and fallen to the ground, rusted, interiors beyond repair, at my RV resort there are 2 that have basically been abandoned and the rear ends rusted abd open and rotted. 85%? No way. Stop the lies and propaganda.
@@petdoctor3Airstream’s website claims over 75% are still “on the road”.
Great video. We were warned about the door lock situation by the dealer when we purchased our Airstream! So, we are always aware, but still lack a plan to store extra keys. This is a good wake up call. And yes, the steps and door closure are our two biggest challenges. Other than that, we LOVE our Airstream! Have a fun day🤗
Appreciate your comment Deborah. If you use only the dead bolt lock your lockout experiences will be minimized. Also, here is another of my videos on preventing lockouts/ins. Lockout Blocker: ruclips.net/video/VHNlYtOZ6cU/видео.html
Thanks for being honest. I am an aircraft mechanic for a major airline. We would NEVER put up with these discrepancy's. Airstream wants a premium price for their product [ new and used ]. Well it had better preform ! I am in the market for a Airstream, I will gladly reduce my offer to a dealer or private party based on this and many other issues. Used does not warrant the price of a new unit. Too many people think just because they own it it is worth more money.
You will find that in the Airstream community many have drank the Kool-Aid and can find no wrong. They are a great product but require special care and attention unlike other RV brands. Good luck on you buying journey and check out my book (link in video description.)
Exactly, I’ve noticed the Airstream cult, that are delusional, just to justify a bad purchase. They’re in total denial, while the camper is breaking down in front of their own eyes. $4-6k per panel is insane. How many campers can you buy for $6k, many.
It BLOWS my dam mind how Airstream hasn't fixed the front end separation issue knowing dam well it's a problem that is easily corrected. I also can't get passed the horribly uncomfortable sitting situation. The cushions are like sitting on a pad of concrete. For pete's sake, they should put a real couch in them. Oh but wait, if you want a couch, you have to pay double for their "pottery barn" edition or the classic model that's 33' long. As much as I love them, I'm still struggling with buying one.
2014 Flying Cloud - 23FB. No lockouts whatsoever, but when leveling, sometimes it's more difficult to open. A bit of hail damage on the roof, but no leaks, so we just let it go.
Thanks for sharing and happy travels.
Zipties or a very, very good magnetic key hider works great. I'm a trucker and I have to say that keeping a spare tied down somewhere out of the cab is a life saver. So yeah keep a spare attached to your tow vehicle and another on your rv trailer. It can save your life.
Even if it means you have to struggle to get your spare out from its spot. it's better than having to walk miles and miles risking alot more than a dirty set of clothes. I once was stranded in the middle of nowhere and had to cut a jiggle key from a shoulder road marker to get in my truck it would have given me a heart attack if I didn't have my multi tool....
Great comment and personal experience, thanks for sharing. Appreciate you watching and stay safe out there...
Our solution for getting locked out was to buy a lockbox (the kind that real estate agents use) and store an extra set of keys in a hidden location. Even if someone finds the keys, they still have to either break the code or breach the lock. We have a wheel lock on our Airstream, and we don’t store an extra key for that in the lockbox so the trailer itself can’t be stolen.
Good planning. Thank you for watching Doug and hope you can Subscribe. :)
Our used airstream came with 2 nasty creases (on the end cap) from being backed into a door that wasn’t fully opened. We got a mobile “paintless dent repair” specialist to come work on it. It’s not perfect, but most people don’t spot it and it was a couple of hundred bucks and took about an hour. Your mileage may vary.
Yes David you had a good experience compared to most. Appreciate your comment.
While I do not disagree with you… I’ll take my aluminum Airstream over a fiberglass camper shell, any day.
And I agree! Thanks for watching.
Funny I’ll take my Azdel siding over both.
Yup mines the toughest RV I’ve ever had.
Same. Love my airstream.
Airstream can take a hit while those boxes crumple with the slightest tap.😑
How well suited is the Airstream for winter camping?
Thanks! This video will save some Airstream owner $$ and surely make them a little safer.
I do try to make videos that help others and bring them some value for watching.
Thanks Jack for the great reminder how easy it is to damage the aluminum shell. We have limited control over hail damage... but can control damage when backing up into a campsite, making turns, where we park in public areas, monitoring air pressure and lug nut torque to prevent an accident and so on. We have a 2016 Int FBQ so the warnings about the steps and front separation don't apply to us, but we always enjoy the videos!!
Very glad you enjoy the videos and appreciate your commend. Wish you well going down the road. Thanks for watching.
I have a 1987 airstream and when we got to the campsite two weeks ago I couldn't open the deadbolt. I was lucky I had left one window open (thank Goodness). I cut the screen, climbed in , disassembled the deadbolt mechanism, cranked on it harder than I felt comfortable with it but it popped open.
Thanks for the good vidii
Appreciate you sharing this and thank you for watching.
We have owned 2 AS. A 2017 International 23D and now a 2019 FC RBT. Did the door modifications on both units as directed on AirForums. We also carry a portable step similar to yours. We do use the steps but we are both fairly light. If you are a larger person they will have some flex. No front or rear end separation with either unit. We are very careful with our WD hitch set up as to not over stress the frame. We do love our AS but as with any RV you have to be handy and do proper maintenance. Extra set of keys hidden away is a great idea and I always have TV keys hidden away also. Nice video with some good tips.
Thank you for the great posting, I know the issues in the video do not surface in all Airstreams as you have noted. Safe travels :)
Got locked out keys inside. Had the emergency window partly open was able to remove screen and climb in and open.
Lucky the window was open, seems ours are always closed and locked. Thanks for sharing and for watching.
Great info Jack. I discovered front end separation on my 2019 FC FBQ 6 months ago. I am in Jackson Center now for repair!
I was there with the same issue a few weeks ago. Appreciate your kind comment and thanks for watching.
Thank ytou very much, Jack. This is one of the most honest Airstream videos I have found. We haven't purchased one yet. But it's good to know what you are getting into.
I really appreciate your comment. As compared to other RV brands I'm still in my Airstream but like you said you need to be knowledgable. Please check out my book, it may help. amzn.to/43vCDTu
Whatever you do, don’t drink the Airstream coolade.
Airstream is better than 99% of the other RV out there.. and the resale value proves it. Why? Because a lot of RV out there are just glued and stapled CRAP. So, if you have an Airstream, be comforted that the wheels will not fall off.. the top cover will not fly off.. that wood frame will not fly off or break away.. or many others things that just never happens on Airstreams.
So true. Thank you for the comment and for watching.
Why have I seen multiple Airstream with the floors rotted and fallen out?
Australia better than 99%? Stop lying. Bragging and making false claims only breeds distrust.
Have many of these issue. 1) At the dealer now for front frame separation. 2) Have issues with the step so I use the same step you have. 3) Was just locked out on my last trip for the first time. Fortunately, I had my keys on me. Plus have a spare set in the truck.
I guess for you this video was BINGO! Sorry for your bad luck but its all part of Airstream ownership. Appreciate your comment and thank you for watching.
Ty I was debating between the airstream and a more rugged off road model. This video helped me decide, you’ve saved me money and what sounds like a lot of Hassel’s.
Glad I could help, not sure what decision you made but we need input from all directions sometimes. Thanks for watching and please subscribe even if you don't go with an Airstream, most of my content is for all RV'ers. :)
just picked up my 4th airstream
Congratulations!
I just bought a step brace from Phil Enoch and it made all the difference in the world. It feels sturdy now
Thanks for the tip and thanks for watching.
The truth you can’t handle the truth , but you sir are a breath of fresh air thanks for posting
The truth has set me free! Thank you Gerard for your comment and for watching.
Jack, Another great informational video. I will check for front end separation tomorrow. I have never been locked out of my trailer (knock on wood) BUT, I do have a second set of keys that are kept outside in case I need them. My major complaint is the ZipDee awning (electric). Stay safe and I look forward to your next video.
Thank you Lee for your very kind comments. Hope you don't have the separation issue, so good luck with that. Again, thanks for watching.
In 4 years of owning our Classic 30 we experienced (suffered with) the door lockout issue, bolt falling out of the step, and never having our electric Relax awning work reliably.
Those are the common issues with Airstreams. I didn't address the awning problem in my video because I have the manual awning and I have no direct experience with the electronic model but had read a lot about it. Thanks for watching and I hope you Subscribed to the channel.
We have a 1976 Airstream motorhome. It is still in one piece. We have had other rvs that rot away in 15 to 20 years. The problem with an Airstream in Texas in you can't keep them cool. In the 70's they used the pink fiberglass insulation. I hope they are using neoprene like the Prevosts or atleast Styrofoam now. . But suspect they are more concerned about the look then the usability.
WE live in Florida and have no issues with cooling but we have 2 AC units. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for your experiences. We are investigating Airstream for a future purchase
Do your homework and all will workout great. Thank you for watching and checkout my Airstream book “Mt Airstream Mentor.”
I have not been locked out but always carry a key and a duplicate in truck. In noticed the dealer service walkthrough tech would always re open the lock lever to the left when exiting rather than let it gradually shift midline and then right side to lock.
Thanks for the commend John.
Jack, I have my eye on a '73 31'er. What should I watch out for?
Rust on the frame and internal water damage would be the top two items to investigate. If buying to restore it really depends on how much work you are willing to do...on the other hand, if buying a ready to camp Airstream you may want to engage a professional RV inspector. That will run several hundred dollars but may save you thousand down the road. Good luck and thanks for watching.
My 2018 FC had one bolt fall out of the step rendering it unusable temporarily. There are several small rivets to drill out and a thin panel to bend down. The bolt was easily reattached to the proper location using thread lock (blue strength). Then some pop rivets finished the job. Irritating but easy to fix.
Appreciate your comment Charles and thanks for watching.
Very informative video.
Good to know checks for any RV owner, and to take action while under warranty….
Thanks for watching.
I was locked out of my 2007 International CCD this weekend, thankfully, someone was inside and unlocked.
I guess that means you were lucky. Search my channel for the Lockout Blocker for some tips on preventing this. Thank you for watching.
Great “good to know” information.
Thank you for the heads up. 👍
Thank you for watching.
Never got locked in or out since years, a simple vine bottle cork , cut in to shape and squeezed in that door nob opening, solved that problem for us
Sounds interesting. Thanks for the comment.
Great idea -Can you send picture
Trying to figure out how to do that ?
Good information. The other thing is they are very low and do not like forest service roads with water drainage ditches cut across them . Thanks for the video
It takes a special trailer to go on some of those roads. Appreciate your comment Mike and thanks for watching.
I traveled the country with my grandparents in a beautiful Airstream towed by a Cadillac.
You must have some great memories. Thanks for sharing.
Sure they all can happen… maybe… our biggest problem was with the power awning… swapped for a manual one.. no issues, needed the door realigned.. dealer did it .. been perfect ever since… stair lube is your friend no issues, never locked in our out but did the handle mod for preventing a potential issue. No front end separation or rear end for that matter.. and aluminum panel damage.. yup. accident.. insurance paid for fix.. Airstream is still the best option from what I can see.. you want a travel trailer or any RV with no issue… doesn’t exist.. stay in hotels
Appreciate your comment and thanks for watching.
The Airstream Travel trailer looks just as good crushed as it does in use. I like my 33FB Airstream because it’s so light that my 12k forklift can pick it up and set it on top of a shipping container during flooding here in Florida.
Would like to see photos of that :) Thanks for your comment.
Amen! Agree with all of it.
Thanks for watching Jeffery and appreciate your comment.
Oliver trailers are the way to go.
I've heard they are nice.
If you like a wet bath system.
Hello, enjoyed your Airstream videos. Where did you install the TPMS repeater?
Not required. I have the TST 507 and works great without a repeater. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
My wife and I have been dreaming of owning an airstream for over a decade. I am starting to lean towards a trailer with better quality control.
What you see in this video mostly about engineering and not quality.
Look at Northwood or Outdoors RV. They aren’t perfect but they are built for actual camping, Forest Service/gravel roads and they aren’t built in Indiana.
My dad always wanted an Airstream. We only had a Holiday Rambler budget.
Nothing shabby about a Holiday Rambler. Thanks for the comment.
I sprained my ankle badly on a set of RV steps that were flimsy and had previously been bent. Also people forget to put the steps up and bash them into something. That bends them. Dangerous for everyone.
Agree completely. After owning several different RV brands and Airstream steps are the worst. Thank you Valerie for watching.
very informative and well presented
Thanks Bill for your kind remarks and appreciate you watching.
We have had 2 of those issues ... so far. We have a 2003 22' CCD. (1) We got locked out a few years ago, went to a locksmith to break us back in, then had to use a screwdriver to open the door until I got the repair parts. (2) We had shell separation in the back. It has been an awful experience. Water leaked in for a long time before we were aware of the problem. Part of the floor rotted in the back. The repair was difficult and tedious, and I will never be sure I did a good enough job. We have had no step problems, but our step is an older, simpler style and has worked fine. We have had other big, ugly problems but they are not part of your kryptonite list. Sadly, our Airstream is a lemon.
Sorry for your problems Michael but unfortunately your experiences are pretty much common failures experienced by other owners. Good luck going forward and thank you for watching.
Thank you for your honest opinion of the sheer bs quality and pricing of Airstreams. They can cut their man hours in half, with the door now, we know, it’s still a piece of crap. Stop bragging about the door.
Hi Jack, thanks for this episode. You hit the nail on the head, I’ve experienced both the step and door issues. May I also suggest checking your door hinges frequently to assure they are tight. While the door is open give it a gentle tug upward and watch the hinges, if they shift you’ll need to remove the adhesive strips covering the screws, tighten and replace the strips.
Great tips on the hinges and I'll check that. Appreciate your kind comments and as always thank you very much for watching. Hope to see you down the road.
Thanks for the tip about the steps! Great video. Love Airstreams but nothing is 💯 perfect
Appreciate your comment and thank you for watching.
@@LandingZoneHome I’ll keep coming back.
Let’s grow this!
Husband was mysteriously locked out of our AS 2022 Atlas. .just locked itself up at a horse show one night. Fortunately he found a locksmith still on duty that night. We now have a 2017 Classic and will be sure to have spare keys hidden somewhere.
Smart thinking. Just remember to only use the deadbolt and not the handle latch. You may also want to check my video "Stop Lockouts." Thank you Kari for watching.
So basically don't ever actually use your air stream as it might get damaged? However, I agree with then tip about the locks, I never use the door lock, I only use the dead bolt. Our 2020 Caravelle was christen by the wife backing our Aluminum Tesla Model S into the aluminum airstream. About $2,000 worth of damage each and hard to repair. I pulled the den out in both, but could not get it completely straight, but now I don't have to worry about the first dent and it is on the hookup side so not really that big of a deal.
Smart move only using the dead bolt. Thanks for watching.
Well , You just convinced me to stick with Roockwood. LOL
Airstreams aren't for everyone. Glad you are happy with your Rockwood. Thanks for watching and safe travels my friend.
Very helpful
Very glad! Thanks for watching.
That separation issue is very worrisome to me Jack. Safe travels
I wish you the best with that issue and hopefully you will dodge the bullet. Many thanks for watching.
2018 airstream flying cloud. I was locked out with it 15 f outside in my underwear. I had to pick a widow lock and climb through
Wow, that is the worst of all situations. I have a video on preventing lockouts that you may want to watch. Thanks for sharing.
i'm surprised you didn't mention the subfloor rot
I think that is an owner maintenance issue caused by water intrusion and not unique to Airstream. Appreciate the comment and thanks for watching.
@@LandingZoneHome Starting in early 2020, and formally introduced in 2021, the subfloor has been replaced with a water-resistant one-piece subfloor.
Airstream needs to recall all trailers.
I'm not holding my breath. Thanks!
I was locked out once and luckily the window beside the door was opened,I just sliced the screen and was able to open the door,it has been a few years,the screen is still not repaired..Also my brother was cutting the grass an a little rock broke the door window,i just covered both sides with metal tape..
You experienced Airstream's Kryptonite! Appreciate your comment Jocelyn and hope you had a chance to Subscribe :)
My 2018 Globetrotter is in the shop right now getting a new roof thanks to hail. $51K (CAD). Insurance is taking care of it, but now I’m very paranoid about future trips in the prairies.
I'm surprised insurance didn't total your Airstream. Wish I had some good advice for you but its hard to control mother nature. Just hope you don't live in a hail prone area. Good luck.
Thanks to you we just cancelled our order. They said they will give us down payment back. The sales person said never to show at the dealership ever again.
Should you ever change your mind there are plenty of other dealerships that would appreciate your business.
Yup . Bolt out on the stairs. We don’t use them anymore
I share your pain. Thank you for watching. and maybe you would like to check out my Airstream book: amzn.to/3GXPuFM
The main problem with AS is that they are stuck in the 60's with no slide outs, with the already smaller interior volume because of the roof radius they need to add a slide out, if they can't figure how to do this, then they are lost
A few years back Airstream did offer slides on at least one model and you can sometimes see those in campgrounds. For the people that like them spaces doesn't seem to be an issue. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
@805gregg….if you don’t like the Airstream because it doesn’t have slide outs, then do ‘t buy one. Slide outs bring as least as much, if not more, grief than any benefit they offer. The structural requirements alone are substantial and the power mechanisms are another layer of problems. Then, there is the leak potential. No thank you, I like my Airstream as built. Want more space, buy a longer one!
@@raycoleman3183 Yep, agree.
I was thinking about getting an airstream but not now!
All RVs have issues and even in view of these know Airstream issues Airstreams are still a good choice. Appreciate your comment Randy and thanks for watching.
I GAURUNTEE you that an Airstream will give you less problems than fiberglass and staples junk. I used to build fiberglass junk trailers at the factory...it is all junk.
Locked out multiple times. Finally had the latch replaced and it didn't happen anymore.
Glad you found a fix. I'm doing a review this week on a device which prevent the door from locking you out, stay tuned for that. Thank you for watching.
I have a 1987 Airstream Sovereign 25ft twin rear bedroom center bath and have always been very careful in the care and use of it. I too use an aluminum step to save the factory folding step. It is kept inside a big steel building when not in use and today that trailer looks as new as it did in 1987. In my view these were the best made Airstreams of all time
I too keep mine in a steel building and it makes a huge different on how it ages. I appreciate your comment Bill and thank you for watching. Please share my videos with your friends and Subscribe if you haven't already. :)
I've heard of people with these steps dealing with corrosion.
Camping close to the ocean can be a threat to the exterior.
The kids of death for most RV's
Is water intrusion. Do Airstreams
Leak? Serious inquiry.
Great question and you are correct about water intrusion. Airstreams do have seams on the roof that require periodic inspections and maybe new caulk. Overall I feel Airstream "leak" must less than traditional build RVs. But I have seen stories about finding Airstreams that have sit for years and years out in the open and didn't have water inside; wish I could believe all of that but I don't. Keep up with the roof inspections and you will be fine. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
@@LandingZoneHome thanks.
Appreciate your reply. I have a
Friend who owns an Avon and
He had to deal the roof one rivet
At a time. Fortunately it worked.
He used, Through the Roof
Sealant.
Yes they can leak, and not just from the roof. and any holes in it. They can leak from exterior lights, windows, panel overlaps, the rear bumper and even the rivets. Since 2021 they have used composite flooring to reduce damage to the (old plywood) floor caused by water leaks. Get your airstream leak tested every other year.
Is insurance higher on an airstream compared to a fiberglass RV? I am guessing only an insurance company could tell us do to comparing apples to oranges on cost of each. Do insurance companies see an airstream as more fragile?
I'm sure they see added expense in Airstream repairs. Thanks for your comment.
Stairs are a huge issue. I wonder if liability in a fall of a visitor would be on the manufacturer of the Airstream owner?
Just make sure you have insurance on your Airstream because all fingers will point to the owner. Thanks for watching and please share the video on your social media. :)
Just because road objects and shopping carts are your personal kryptonite, doesn't mean Airstream's aluminum design is useless. You're not an engineer. Probably shouldn't be driving either if parking lot scenarios are a challenge.
Thanks for the comment and for watching.
Hail damage?
Yes, very common if caught in a storm. Thanks for watching.
One morning we couldn't open our door to take dogs out and then alittle fear set in thinking what happens if it catches on fire
My hubby finally got it open but immediately put some tools inside. He had to realign the lock plate and tighten everything.
Wanted to add, we do love the airstream. One day hope to own a 33 ft intl.
Thanks for sharing!! This could happen to anyone. I have a separate video on how to prevent lock outs and lock in that you may want to check out.
hundred grand ??? should be perfect ..! , think i will stay with my Rockwood Mini Lite ...fifty grand . , btw , last summer i was camping in northern Ontario and a couple set up their Airstream beside our camper , lo and behold this Airstream had a slideout !!! , i never knew that Airstreams had this option ...have you ever heard of this ??
Years ago Airstream offered a slide but not now. Appreciate your comment and hope you had a chance to Subscribe. :)
I use 3 cinder blocks for step's. Can leave them out and they don't break or blow away.
I'm fixing up my 1978 airstream camper so I can live in it.
He must be talking about the newer airstreams. Company's tend to skimp on the materials after a while of being in business. It takes quite a bit to damage my airstream.
Apprecite your comment and thanks for watching.
Best superman ever: Christopher reeves and Brandon Roth.
You got it! Thanks for watching.
I’ve always liked the Airstream aesthetics but I wouldn’t buy one even if I had the money. I’m a boatbuilder by trade and it seems they are poorly built boats? Cool looking though!
Appreciate your comment and thanks for watching.
My Dad's airstream came with black steel steps.
Some older units had steel steps (I think). Thanks for watching.
We were locked out when putting breakfast dishes back in the Airstream. Four hours later and $75 poorer we finished the dishes just in time for lunch. That was 9 years ago. In today’s time the cost would be double that!
Thanks for sharing and glad you apparently did not have pets or children left inside. I will be doing a review on a device to prevent the lockout so stay tuned for that. Good luck down the road.
I’ll not be discouraged!!
Second place after Airstream is miles behind.
Appreciate the comment and thank you for watching.
My Airstream is absolutely the best money Ive ever spent.
Most owners feel the same way. Thanks for the comment.
? If it gets a dent ?
Could you just JB weld a piece over the dent ?
Paint a flower ?
My new truck was working the next day!
Haha, many solutions.
Locked in once...
Hope it doesn't happen again. Thanks for your comment.
Nothing like trying to get the damn door to latch & needing to slam it in the early morning hours while parked in some overpriced RV park.
I know the feeling oh too well. Appreciate your commend and thank you for watching. It won't help with your doo issues :) but you may want to check out my Airstream book: amzn.to/3VmEhCW
We got lock out of our 19 flying cloud.
Sorry to hear that Patrick but not too surprised. Hope it didn't cause too much trouble for you. Thanks for watching and please Subscribe :)
Combination door lock
Thanks for watching.
Forgetting your keys is not a warranty issue.
Doors that inadvertently lock is the issue. Thanks for watching.
If you're dumb enough to spend that kind of money for a modern Airstream...You Deserve what you get... There's a big difference from the old-time Airstreams to the new stuff... 'Nuff said!!!... Thanks for posting this video😊😊😊
Thank you for the comment.
@@LandingZoneHome Thank you for taking the time to reply...
Why doesn't Airstream build a more strong a rigid body panels?
Probably has to do with weight and expense. Thank you for the comment and for watching.
IMHO, the Achilles Heel of Airstream is the poor insulation and inability to remain comfortable in hot weather. That's the reason I wouldn't buy one, as much as I like everything else. Bt hey, I'm in Texas, so ...
We have two AC units and stay comfortable so far, even in Florida and Las Vegas. Winters are a challenge. Thanks for the comment.
Sounds like Airstream has a poor relationship with its customers. And they need to wake up and realize this. The mato the customer is always right should be adopted by Airstream as a law for the entire corporate body. If you lose your reputation you will lose your credibility and your customers.
Thank you for this comment.
Must be Airstream nixed your idea you pitched to get a free year's use of a Classic 33 FB?😄
Thanksfor watching.
Overly dramatic. Kryptonite? Hardly. 12 years of ownership with one lockout in year one. Check - hide spare keys. Many heavy hail storms with no damage. Shell separation - no. Collision damage - well, sure it can happen, that’s what insurance is for.
Appreciate the comment and thanks for watching.
glove box in the tow
Okay, thanks.
If you can afford one, you can take the liability in the long haul.
Thanks for you comment.
Something expensive that isn't durable.
It's durable for sure, just look at the percentage of units manufactured that are still on the road, somewhere over 60 percent. You just have to take care of them and be very careful. Thanks for watching.
Thank you very much for this information. I'll never buy any American crap, because the words "good enough" seems to be everywhere.
Glad you got something from the video but I think it is mostly about poor engineering decisions and not that much on quality. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
Meh… little dents from shopping carts etc. no problems.. minor hail, no prob.. hidt adds to the character
Thanks for watching.
*Maybe Airstream engineers are watching & learning from this video hopefully. IF not then the sad decline of Airstream has already begun*
I do know that Airstream is watching; while at the Mothership they gave me some feedback on my Front End Separation video. They didn't like it. but I hoped it would be a learning experience for everyone :) Thank you for watching and hope you can Subscribe.
Thanks Jack for the great info , What the hell is AS doing about these issues , you pay 100,000 thousand dollars for these lemons 🍋 with these kind of issues ? No thanks , their design & engineers need to go back to the drawing board or find another line of work . Ridiculous. Another American company ripping off the consumer, sounds like it’s rampant in the RV industry. Thanks for saving me my time & money , I’ll look elsewhere for a different RV company. Renegade or Showhauler instead. 👍🤛⚾️
Doesn't really matter what RV you get, you just have to be aware of what you are getting (bad and good stuff) and always keep your expectations reasonable. Thanks Bob for watching.
@Bob Mariano…buh bye! 👋🏻. 😊
Airstream equals rving in a tin can. They suck.
To each his own, all things considered we still like our Airstream.
Doesn't sound like a great product to me.
Airstreams are good products but there is a lot of opportunity for improvement. Thanks for the comment and for watching.
Now I know not to get one lol
All RVs have issues but overall I have found Airstream to have some of the best quality in the industry. Just be educated on what you are buying. Good luck and thank you for watching.
Airstreams kryptonite is a reasoned buyer: no one should pay 4 times as much for 10 times less
Thanks for the comment :)