What you’re doing is invaluable. There are a lot of popular “RV review” channels out there but, in reality, they’re just sales tools for specific RV dealers so the ‘reviewers’ can’t be 100% honest. Keep up the good work!
Thanks you! I really hope we see some positive changes in the quality of RVs as people start demanding better built campers. The fact that the tour guide at Grand Design has been pestered with questions about the plumbing makes me happy! It will be all the viewers who really make a difference, but I'm happy to educate :)
@@undercoverrvtech Something I'd like to see as a fairly new full-timer is a comparison of some of the popular full time brands like Montana, Jayco North Point/Pinnacle, and Arctic Fox. We're leaning heavily toward getting a Brinkley but every time I tell an old-timer in the park that, they go, "Oh, no, you don't want that. What you want is a Jayco!"
@@DirtWireTV I have a Jayo travel trailer review coming out very soon. I also have lots of other Jayco and Montana's in the pipeline. I haven't gotten my hands on an Arctic Fox (yet) but it's top of my list for season 2. So stay tuned!
Bit of a reality check on maintenance demand, etc.: The Airstream manual states, "We recommend washing your Airstream *about every four weeks* and waxing with Walbernize Super Seal, or high quality clear coat-safe wax, in the spring and fall. In coastal and industrial areas, cleaning and waxing should be done more frequently." It goes on to say that the seams *do* need to be inspected and re-sealed annually. I have four not-so-lovely memories in Airstreams in childhood: 1) Baseballs accidentally hitting one of the curved rear aluminum panels, especially, creating small dents, and your grandfather is ready to cry because lots of things do this that would not dent a typical RV and they are wildly expensive to get out; 2) Sub-freezing night in the Rockies after Grandma cooked a hot dinner. Even with ventilation going, aluminum transmits temperature worse than almost any other material and the main entry door would be frozen to its frame in the morning, requiring a hair dryer or shoulder fatigue to get it open; 3) On that same kind of morning, if temperatures got into the teens or lower (F), some of the interior rivets would form frost on them and, when melting later, would leave little tracks of water / staining trailing below them; 4) They're good glampers, not very good at camping away from hook-ups. The tank capacities were too small for us to be out-and-away anywhere for long, which is part of the light-payload design / ratings. I would personally never buy one at their typical prices. There's a big charge for aesthetics and brand name built in, neither of which are priorities for me.
There is a little bit of nuance with the front end separation issue. Around 2021-22 the factory began adding support brackets to stave off front end separation. Also, owners who install a receiver to the rear of the trailer to haul things like bicycles (nowadays usually heavy-ass e-bikes), scraping the rear end on inclines, or having too much weight distribution can all cause front end separation. It might be difficult to avoid the "front compartment models" because the front bed twin floorplan has become extremely popular, and besides, for reason I mentioned front end separation can occur on any model including the ones without the front compartment.
I looked at an Airstream Caravelle 22FB a couple years ago at an RV show. I was really impressed with the metal work on the exterior. I'm an aviation geek, and the Airstream had better welds and riveting than a few aircraft I've flown.
This is interesting to see that Airstream fit and finish has really come up in quality. I was going to buy a 25 foot airstream in 2000 till I started looking at the fit and finish. The quality was not there for $35k Airstream. The sales person also told me it was a 4 seasons RV. I asked her how it was 4 seasons RV when the water connection line was a 6 inch exposed copper line?
There are strange claims like that made about them by quite a few people online. Anyone who has grown up with them and gotten into serious cold would never label them that way. Even aside from plumbing protection, aluminum has terrible thermal transmissivity, and the laws of physics just don’t take “no” for an answer. Some poor guy got caught up in the fanciful claims about this on one of the Airstream owners’ forums and tried to overwinter in Alaska based on that. I’m not sure he even lasted a month-it wasn’t even getting down to 0°F yet. Full-hookup campgrounds in Arizona or Florida, etc., with their big air conditioners is their ideal application and as extreme-climate capable as they get.
My understanding from the Hershey show is that airstream has upgraded the flange on either side of the front storage compartment on current models of Flying Cloud, International, and Globetrotters
I had a 30 ft flying Cloud. The front end started to separate two years out of warranty. Airstream covered the cost of repairs. It was about 3000 for the repair. I just bought 30ft globetrotter because I was so impressed with Airstreams customer service and willingness to stand behind their product. Airstream has also come up with a fix to the separation issue and has put it into production on the new airstreams.
Thanks for the video. In trailers 2023 and forward Airstream resolved the front end separation issue by adding additional support two models with front cargo areas.
I'll be buying your course tomorrow; wallet is in my truck and it's 2am I ain't going outside to get it right now. Even though I have 10 years of RVing experience, very handy and a smart shopper who dives deep into specs and quality. I've been researching our next camper for 5 years or more. Watched GD go downhill, walked through numerous Alliances a couple years ago that had horrible quality issues I just can't unsee, Brinkley's are ok but IMHO too many people buying into the hype and the shiny object there. We're pretty dead set on a Flagstaff 371RK, generally speaking an all-around pretty solid unit from what I can see online, in person, factory tours etc. Definitely interested in seeing if you have any other helpful information in the course on flagstaff or rockwood. Pretty smart idea and unique channel, good for you. Hope you crush it man!
Thank you for the honest review we were thinking about getting the flying cloud and saw/read so many comments about the Frontend separation that we got second thoughts. the fact that you repair RV's gives me the confidence to continue looking until I find the right one.
In April of this year we purchased a 2024 International 25FBT and have pulled it over 4000 miles and spent 30+ nights in it. Knock on wood but we have had zero issues. We absolutely love it. It pulls easy, the AC works great in 100 degree days, and we are happy with the fit and finish. I’m 6’3” and not skinny and yes, I use the shower every day. Probably the most important thing to mention is we haven’t (again knocking on wood) missed a day from our trips because of something breaking in the Airstream. One complaint we do have is that the cushions are very firm and uncomfortable but there are easy fixes for that.
This was a huge help to us as we are looking at the 20x base camp. That cargo capacity means if we change the bed out for something heavier and travel with water alot of stuff will have to go in our truck. =(
I found the wiring in our Classic 30 to be an absolute rats nest. The wiring in our Leisure Travel Van is loomed and attached to walls. Much higher quality build.
I own a 2006 airstream 25FB. You’re right about the front storage problem. But many airstreams like mine don’t have that configuration. So, most airstreams are fine. Everyone I’ve talked to love their airstream and many of these people have had junk R.V. in the past. I give mine an A. Also mine has new wheels and tires and looks like a 2024 model. It’s timeless and tows beautifully.
The "Keep Your Daydream" folks on that channel have a Flying Cloud and had the separation issue with theirs. They have a vid showing the repairs done to it. It's quite an extensive process done by an Airstream specialist - where they rip out the whole storage compartment and wall framing and essentially start over and add an additional framing kit to reinforce the entire base of the frame. (...if mentioning "frame" was a drinking game, y'all wouldn't make it to the end of this passage... :) ) I dont recall them talking about the cost, however, I'm sure it was at least several thousand $,$$$ to reconstruct it.
Comment on Grand Design plumbing. They probably don’t see warranty claims because the dealer always claims they can’t find the leak, even when they’re repairing the damage caused by the leak. On our brand new RV, they had to replace bathroom cabinets because of a leak but claimed the couldn’t find the source. I showed them videos and they refused to fix the plumbing. Our shower faucet plumbing has flooded our bedroom, bathroom sink faucet leaks, water heater plumbing leaks. We’ve had to fix every single location where there’s pex and flex hoses.
I'm sorry they did that to you. It's a common story sadly. People get mad in the comments that I fail any RV that's improperly plumbed, but it's because I've had to fix these connections for so many clients - all paying out of pocket because the manufacturer wanted to make an extra buck at their expense
Greetings from Norway! Thanks for your testing and explanations. I am one of extremely rare Airstream owners in Europe. Mine is an International, 8.3 m from end to the towing glove. Reassuring to see alt the quality aspects you point out. In Europe, the suspension is changed to a german make with boggy right under the middle of the Airstream body, with torsion axles made of spring steel inside. To each wheel you will find an electric motor attached(4 in all), in this way you can do fine maneuvering in thight places with a remote control unit. In Europe electro mechanical or electro hydraulic brakes on trailers are not allowed, unfortunately, so trailers can only have surge brakes. The inside of the Airstream is somewhat different from the american versions, kind of more timeless where design is more emphasized than the practicality of the interior. It has an hydronic heating system from Alde, and this Airstream is 10 years old. The countertop is entirely made of corean, the hardest plastic substance available, from Dupont, one inch thick. Mine Airstream is a narrow body, even more rare, Airstream stopped the production of this line long time ago, solely meant for the European market. It tows extremely nice on the narrow winding steep roads of Norway with plenty of mountain passes. As a towing vehicle, I use a F150 ecoboost. This vehicle, believe or not, is a special import, not as rare as an Airstream, but still. In Europe you will not find vehicles which matches the full size pickups of USA. F150 is a nice towing vehicle with lots of power, where the engine yields the full torque at low rpm. I just wanted you to know that many europeans admire the camping trailers from USA, and not least the full size american pickup trucks.
Totally agree. See people who spend that much on an rv and never use it. Spent $139 k for my 28’er and did 6000 miles last year and will do over 11k this year and would never want to deal with the headaches I’d be facing with a 9k trailer after than many miles. Hurricane force winds every time I get on a freeway. Best let them sit.
Just want to say that I found these videos exceptional. I did want to comment on the review of the front storage units with the issue you brought up. Airstream changed the design in 2023 and placed reinforcements up front that solved the issue. A number of times, units built prior to the 2023 model year, Airstream on a case by case basis has been extending the warranty to repair the units that had issues with what is commonly known as front end separation. This repair can cost upwards of $1700 if there is no exterior panel replacement.
Good video. Always an air streamer here . On my 2nd one now (upgraded from 17ft Sport to a 22ft Bambi FB) and not had any issues with either (camp often) . The Airstreams definitely hold their resale value compared to ANY of the regular trailers .
I own an Airstream. I would like to know if they have in fact redesigned the frame attachment method to rectify the known issue of the front storage model. I own a 2022 23 Foot Globetrotter 23FBT, they no longer make the 23 Foot version. It does have the front storage locker. The 23 and less Footers are what is know as a narrow body Airstream. 25 Foot and up are Wide Body.
Regarding the Airstream’s suspension it was implied that the suspension may not be high quality because the CCC is lower than comparable trailers. Is it possible that the empty vehicle weight is greater because of the construction materials (aluminum vs fiberglass) thereby cutting into your carrying capacity? I would like to hear your opinion of the actual suspension. Aside from that there is so little storage space on an Airstream it might be difficult to overload it anyway.
Wow, that's crazy about Grand design. We avoided Grand design because of other issues and the warranty only being a year. I'm glad they said what they said because now I'm never getting a grand design. Plumbing is big and you don't skimp on that.
Hi. I'm an Airstream owner and owner of an engineering company. I looked forever for a touchpad entry system for Airstreams and found that there are none that can be installed without substantial modifications to the door and strike. So I designed and built one. I did it just for myself, but it turned out better than I expected. I'd love to send one to you for a fair review. I think you'll love it, but I'll take your honest assessment. How can I get you to do a review for me?
Would an aluminum skin cause more condensation in winter? Would it take more propane to keep warm? Would it be hotter in summer if not in a shaded area?
No, No & No - they are airtight and insulated well with an enclosed underbelly. We're on our 5th RV. Our Airstream runs circles around the "white boxes".
We have a 27' airstream globetrotter, and had a 22' airstream bambi before it. I haven't had any other travel trailers, so I don't have anything to compare it to. But I will say that you've zeroed in one one of my main gripes about both airstreams. It has an aluminum outer skin, aluminum structural ribs, and an aluminum inner skin. There's a reason aluminum is used for heat sinks and radiators in cars... it's extremely efficient at passing heat (and cold) through it. We spend 6 weeks in our trailer in AZ in Jan and part of Feb each year (I'm writing this from my aluminum tube right now!). We go through a lot of propane keeping the thing warm at night. Althgou the air is warm, you can feel the cold radiating off of the walls. The windows are single pane, so on cold nights, there's lots of condensation in the glass. We don't get condensation on the aluminum walls though. Just the windows. The build quality of these trailers is pretty good overall. The cabinets are really nice. But as a perpetual tinkerer, I'm constantly finding things to improve or upgrade or fix. The appliances airstream uses seem to be the same as any other travel trailer. So I kind of think you're paying for expensive aluminum and the 2-man labor required to buck rivet it, the brand name, and the unique look and nostalgia of airstreams. So I do tend to think they're a bit overpriced. We love our trailer overall though.
@@pierpalicious The one thing allot of Airstream owners forget is how easy they are to tow, & the amount you save on fuel towing a Airstream because of the design, & weight; Compared to box trailer.
Appreciate your review. Would really like to see a review of DRV Mobil suites and Forest River Riverstone Legacy. What is your thought on the Moryde independent suspension system
Sorry to hear that. You're not alone, I've had to fix those bad connections all the time for clients. I wish they would just do it right the first time!
You mentioned in this video that you were going "undercover" to examine, in an upcoming video, a travel trailer that many consider similar to the Airstream, but at half the cost. Let me guess which brand you're referring to. I have been researching the Intech brand since summer 2022. I've watched every TH-cam walkthrough video multiple times, including two in-depth factory tour videos. I have reached out and spoken to factory reps in Nappanee, IN on several occasions but as yet have never actually been able to pull the drawers, open the cabinets, sit on the commode, stand in the shower stall, or crawl underneath, ya know, "kick the tires". I went to the Gulf Coast RV Show in Mobile, AL last week, there were no Intech's, in fact to my surprise, none of the six dealers at the show including, Great American, Dads, Blue Compass, and Williams Family, all claimed to have never heard of Intech Travel Trailers. I am sooo interested in them, that next week I am going to the RV Supershow in Tampa, FL because the Intech rep in Nappanee, IN, promised to have all of their "Rover" models there on display. I'd love to hear your comments on Intech trailers if you can find one to review.
You mentioned the fit and finish of the Airstreams, on the surface they look good, but there is something you might not know. The ducting for the AC if the Airstream is ducted, has a poor seal at the duct. The duct vent does not pull the duct and the interior ceiling together, this allows the air to get in between the ceiling and the duct work, impacting the efficiency of the cooling, because it balloon between the ceiling and insulation. I hope I explained it well. Your videos are informative, please keep up the work.
Including the cabinet material, ie plywood, what is your assessment of the wrap? I have plywood cabinets on a very high end and high rated RV, , however when wet, the wrap peeled off and totally ruined the cabinets
Thanks! Glad to be back! I was working hard on getting this new app/database/shopping course created. I can't review all the RVs myself, but I want to empower all my viewers to be able to shop smart
We bought a new Classic in 2020 and only kept a year. Constant problems… was in the shop more than we ever used it. Sold it back to the dealer. It was beautiful but quality was very poor.
My dad had 2 Airstreams both 31'. '78 and a '79. The '79 finally a repair shop in '95 I forgot for what... But a non Airstream dealer repaired the problem... Other than that... My dad needed to stay away from BBQ pits (use your imagination )... But like we say in bikes If it has breast or tires maintenance will happen!! I'll look out for your next video on the 1/2 price RV.
Right before I watched your video I watched the video where Vinnie does a modification of the framework for a Flying Cloud. As the owner for a 27FBT Flying Cloud I a concerned.
All I know from my Airstream 23FB is that they cut corners to save money. My foot when through the floor one morning which revealed a bigger problem, I love cold weather camping, and assumed that any condensation would drain out, I thought of course Airstream would plan for that. Wrong. My unit (new units now use composite flooring) had plywood floor, which rotted out due to condensation from the windows causing mold and mildew. The tech told me that Airstream knew about this issue, but only installed mold/mildew resistant flooring at the entrance lip and shower lip, the most common warranty issues. What irked me was that the cost difference for kitchen bath mold/mildew resistant treated plywood was about $5 a sheet. I had a $25k repair, because Airstream decided to save about $50. Airstream KNEW some of their viewers would face major repairs, but only improved the entrance and shower areas to save $50. as those major repairs would occur AFFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRED.
Look at KYD's youtube post for this past week. They go through front end separation, cause and repair. We purchased a 2023 25'' twin International this past fall....I'm hoping AS has done some frame beefing on this year class. We won't be hanging bikes off the backend et cetera but did remodel converting the bench dinette area to recliners so did have some weight changes to the unit. We'll see I guess. As I understand it other brands do see front end issues also.
I’ve had campers for over a decade, considering an airstream for my last camper entering into retirement. Your scores would lead me to believe they are one of the better ones out there.
If only I had the budget for a New Horizon RV like the 2024 36RK3S triple axle, which is just about 38 feet in length. Unfortunately, the price tag can be well over 300 K.
We shopped Airstream but decided on an Oliver Legacy Elite II based on the quality of the manufacturing and customer service. I’d be interested to hear your take on Oliver Travel Trailers.
I like the built quality of the Oliver but the sterile alien ship white interior was a deal breaker for me. It felt like a hospital😅 escape is a bit wider and some humanly warm wood decor and fabrics felt more friendly
Aesthetics aside, I’d love to see a review on your channel of an Oliver. After taking the factory tour, we felt the quality and craftsmanship of the Oliver was second to none. It only takes few decorative touches to soften the “sterile” interior. If you are ever in the Florida panhandle area, we’d love to show you ours.
With regards to Airstream being overpriced, go look for a used one. You won't find a bargain. Do some math on the total cost of ownership over your expected camping experience, and if you can swing the initial price, it's probably cheaper than a conventional travel trailer that plummets in value over that same period. Some are holding 90% of their value after three years.
It depends. We buy used and find that by the time we're ready to sell our rv's we can sell it for quite a bit more than what we bought it for. If we took the time to paint them we could make a few thousand more off of them.
We used to travel in a bus, so that’s what the airstream reminds me of. We like airstreams, but I just don’t fit our style of camping, We need more room.
What you’re doing is invaluable. There are a lot of popular “RV review” channels out there but, in reality, they’re just sales tools for specific RV dealers so the ‘reviewers’ can’t be 100% honest. Keep up the good work!
Thanks you! I really hope we see some positive changes in the quality of RVs as people start demanding better built campers. The fact that the tour guide at Grand Design has been pestered with questions about the plumbing makes me happy! It will be all the viewers who really make a difference, but I'm happy to educate :)
@@undercoverrvtech Something I'd like to see as a fairly new full-timer is a comparison of some of the popular full time brands like Montana, Jayco North Point/Pinnacle, and Arctic Fox. We're leaning heavily toward getting a Brinkley but every time I tell an old-timer in the park that, they go, "Oh, no, you don't want that. What you want is a Jayco!"
@@DirtWireTV I have a Jayo travel trailer review coming out very soon. I also have lots of other Jayco and Montana's in the pipeline. I haven't gotten my hands on an Arctic Fox (yet) but it's top of my list for season 2. So stay tuned!
Wow thank you for your honesty! I had no idea about the flying cloud ☁️
Bit of a reality check on maintenance demand, etc.: The Airstream manual states, "We recommend washing your Airstream *about every four weeks* and waxing with Walbernize Super Seal, or high quality clear coat-safe wax, in the spring and fall. In coastal and industrial areas, cleaning and waxing should be done more frequently." It goes on to say that the seams *do* need to be inspected and re-sealed annually. I have four not-so-lovely memories in Airstreams in childhood: 1) Baseballs accidentally hitting one of the curved rear aluminum panels, especially, creating small dents, and your grandfather is ready to cry because lots of things do this that would not dent a typical RV and they are wildly expensive to get out; 2) Sub-freezing night in the Rockies after Grandma cooked a hot dinner. Even with ventilation going, aluminum transmits temperature worse than almost any other material and the main entry door would be frozen to its frame in the morning, requiring a hair dryer or shoulder fatigue to get it open; 3) On that same kind of morning, if temperatures got into the teens or lower (F), some of the interior rivets would form frost on them and, when melting later, would leave little tracks of water / staining trailing below them; 4) They're good glampers, not very good at camping away from hook-ups. The tank capacities were too small for us to be out-and-away anywhere for long, which is part of the light-payload design / ratings. I would personally never buy one at their typical prices. There's a big charge for aesthetics and brand name built in, neither of which are priorities for me.
The higher heat gain and loss of aluminum shell is a show stopper for me! No way, no how would I own one.
There is a little bit of nuance with the front end separation issue. Around 2021-22 the factory began adding support brackets to stave off front end separation. Also, owners who install a receiver to the rear of the trailer to haul things like bicycles (nowadays usually heavy-ass e-bikes), scraping the rear end on inclines, or having too much weight distribution can all cause front end separation. It might be difficult to avoid the "front compartment models" because the front bed twin floorplan has become extremely popular, and besides, for reason I mentioned front end separation can occur on any model including the ones without the front compartment.
I looked at an Airstream Caravelle 22FB a couple years ago at an RV show. I was really impressed with the metal work on the exterior. I'm an aviation geek, and the Airstream had better welds and riveting than a few aircraft I've flown.
This is interesting to see that Airstream fit and finish has really come up in quality. I was going to buy a 25 foot airstream in 2000 till I started looking at the fit and finish. The quality was not there for $35k Airstream. The sales person also told me it was a 4 seasons RV. I asked her how it was 4 seasons RV when the water connection line was a 6 inch exposed copper line?
What saleswoman was that?
There are strange claims like that made about them by quite a few people online. Anyone who has grown up with them and gotten into serious cold would never label them that way. Even aside from plumbing protection, aluminum has terrible thermal transmissivity, and the laws of physics just don’t take “no” for an answer. Some poor guy got caught up in the fanciful claims about this on one of the Airstream owners’ forums and tried to overwinter in Alaska based on that. I’m not sure he even lasted a month-it wasn’t even getting down to 0°F yet. Full-hookup campgrounds in Arizona or Florida, etc., with their big air conditioners is their ideal application and as extreme-climate capable as they get.
My understanding from the Hershey show is that airstream has upgraded the flange on either side of the front storage compartment on current models of Flying Cloud, International, and Globetrotters
I had a 30 ft flying Cloud. The front end started to separate two years out of warranty. Airstream covered the cost of repairs. It was about 3000 for the repair. I just bought 30ft globetrotter because I was so impressed with Airstreams customer service and willingness to stand behind their product. Airstream has also come up with a fix to the separation issue and has put it into production on the new airstreams.
Please review ATC RVs
My Grand Design had a water leak just outside the window!! Thank you for this video!!
Thanks for the video. In trailers 2023 and forward Airstream resolved the front end separation issue by adding additional support two models with front cargo areas.
I'll be buying your course tomorrow; wallet is in my truck and it's 2am I ain't going outside to get it right now. Even though I have 10 years of RVing experience, very handy and a smart shopper who dives deep into specs and quality. I've been researching our next camper for 5 years or more. Watched GD go downhill, walked through numerous Alliances a couple years ago that had horrible quality issues I just can't unsee, Brinkley's are ok but IMHO too many people buying into the hype and the shiny object there. We're pretty dead set on a Flagstaff 371RK, generally speaking an all-around pretty solid unit from what I can see online, in person, factory tours etc. Definitely interested in seeing if you have any other helpful information in the course on flagstaff or rockwood. Pretty smart idea and unique channel, good for you. Hope you crush it man!
Thank you for the honest review we were thinking about getting the flying cloud and saw/read so many comments about the Frontend separation that we got second thoughts. the fact that you repair RV's gives me the confidence to continue looking until I find the right one.
Glad it was helpful!
In April of this year we purchased a 2024 International 25FBT and have pulled it over 4000 miles and spent 30+ nights in it. Knock on wood but we have had zero issues. We absolutely love it. It pulls easy, the AC works great in 100 degree days, and we are happy with the fit and finish. I’m 6’3” and not skinny and yes, I use the shower every day. Probably the most important thing to mention is we haven’t (again knocking on wood) missed a day from our trips because of something breaking in the Airstream. One complaint we do have is that the cushions are very firm and uncomfortable but there are easy fixes for that.
This was a huge help to us as we are looking at the 20x base camp. That cargo capacity means if we change the bed out for something heavier and travel with water alot of stuff will have to go in our truck. =(
Thanks Arthur!
Just discovered your channel and subscribed! Your timing is perfect.
Glad to help!
I found the wiring in our Classic 30 to be an absolute rats nest. The wiring in our Leisure Travel Van is loomed and attached to walls. Much higher quality build.
Great and Honest Information.
I own a 2006 airstream 25FB. You’re right about the front storage problem. But many airstreams like mine don’t have that configuration. So, most airstreams are fine. Everyone I’ve talked to love their airstream and many of these people have had junk R.V. in the past. I give mine an A. Also mine has new wheels and tires and looks like a 2024 model. It’s timeless and tows beautifully.
Please do a review on InTech trailers. Horizon, Dawn and Magnolia.
Great information! Thanks for putting this together.
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching!
The "Keep Your Daydream" folks on that channel have a Flying Cloud and had the separation issue with theirs. They have a vid showing the repairs done to it. It's quite an extensive process done by an Airstream specialist - where they rip out the whole storage compartment and wall framing and essentially start over and add an additional framing kit to reinforce the entire base of the frame. (...if mentioning "frame" was a drinking game, y'all wouldn't make it to the end of this passage... :) ) I dont recall them talking about the cost, however, I'm sure it was at least several thousand $,$$$ to reconstruct it.
Comment on Grand Design plumbing. They probably don’t see warranty claims because the dealer always claims they can’t find the leak, even when they’re repairing the damage caused by the leak.
On our brand new RV, they had to replace bathroom cabinets because of a leak but claimed the couldn’t find the source. I showed them videos and they refused to fix the plumbing. Our shower faucet plumbing has flooded our bedroom, bathroom sink faucet leaks, water heater plumbing leaks. We’ve had to fix every single location where there’s pex and flex hoses.
Wow ! That is a grand design?
you tube is full of gran design fails it s a crap brand
I'm sorry they did that to you. It's a common story sadly. People get mad in the comments that I fail any RV that's improperly plumbed, but it's because I've had to fix these connections for so many clients - all paying out of pocket because the manufacturer wanted to make an extra buck at their expense
Thank you Artur! Great video.
Glad you liked it!
Greetings from Norway! Thanks for your testing and explanations. I am one of extremely rare Airstream owners in Europe. Mine is an International, 8.3 m from end to the towing glove. Reassuring to see alt the quality aspects you point out. In Europe, the suspension is changed to a german make with boggy right under the middle of the Airstream body, with torsion axles made of spring steel inside. To each wheel you will find an electric motor attached(4 in all), in this way you can do fine maneuvering in thight places with a remote control unit. In Europe electro mechanical or electro hydraulic brakes on trailers are not allowed, unfortunately, so trailers can only have surge brakes. The inside of the Airstream is somewhat different from the american versions, kind of more timeless where design is more emphasized than the practicality of the interior. It has an hydronic heating system from Alde, and this Airstream is 10 years old.
The countertop is entirely made of corean, the hardest plastic substance available, from Dupont, one inch thick. Mine Airstream is a narrow body, even more rare, Airstream stopped the production of this line long time ago, solely meant for the European market. It tows extremely nice on the narrow winding steep roads of Norway with plenty of mountain passes. As a towing vehicle, I use a F150 ecoboost. This vehicle, believe or not, is a special import, not as rare as an Airstream, but still. In Europe you will not find vehicles which matches the full size pickups of USA. F150 is a nice towing vehicle with lots of power, where the engine yields the full torque at low rpm. I just wanted you to know that many europeans admire the camping trailers from USA, and not least the full size american pickup trucks.
ty we are just starting to look
Look at the pause please I really like them and was interested in getting one.
Great video. I'm learning more every new video.
Awesome, thank you!
26’ airstream $100,000.
26’ fema trailer brand new, but sat for a year $9,000. Easy choice for me who camps a few times a year.
Totally agree. See people who spend that much on an rv and never use it. Spent $139 k for my 28’er and did 6000 miles last year and will do over 11k this year and would never want to deal with the headaches I’d be facing with a 9k trailer after than many miles. Hurricane force winds every time I get on a freeway. Best let them sit.
Thanks for the review!
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
Thanks Arthur 😅
Thanks for the info. We had considered an Airstream but really wanted the slide outs.
Me too, I've only ever had RVs with slideouts
Slide outs are: Cold, Leak, Break & noisy. There is a reason Airstreams don't have them and long time RVers migrate to Airstreams.
Thank you Arthur!
Arthur is one heck of a guy. Thanks Arthur.
Just want to say that I found these videos exceptional. I did want to comment on the review of the front storage units with the issue you brought up.
Airstream changed the design in 2023 and placed reinforcements up front that solved the issue. A number of times, units built prior to the 2023 model year, Airstream on a case by case basis has been extending the warranty to repair the units that had issues with what is commonly known as front end separation. This repair can cost upwards of $1700 if there is no exterior panel replacement.
I am interested in the Bambi model and this information was an eye opener. Thanks for this video.
I need to now did you evaluate the Rockwood line of travel trailers, they say they are the best But are they?
I have a review of them coming out soon! Stay tuned!
Please review the Heartland Big Country 3705fb 5th wheel. Thank you
Good video. Always an air streamer here . On my 2nd one now (upgraded from 17ft Sport to a 22ft Bambi FB) and not had any issues with either (camp often) . The Airstreams definitely hold their resale value compared to ANY of the regular trailers .
Have you ever done one of these new inspections on a Northwood or Outdoor trailer? I'm curious how they stack up to an Airstream.
Thanks Arthur
Was looking at Grand Design, not any longer... Thank you Arthur.
You dodged a bullet. They are soooooo badly plumbed -all of them
Thank you. Do an ATC Toy Hauler review. Looking hard at them.
Thanks for the info, don't currently own an RV, but when I buy one I'll definitely get the app.
I own an Airstream. I would like to know if they have in fact redesigned the frame attachment method to rectify the known issue of the front storage model. I own a 2022 23 Foot Globetrotter 23FBT, they no longer make the 23 Foot version. It does have the front storage locker. The 23 and less Footers are what is know as a narrow body Airstream. 25 Foot and up are Wide Body.
good to know about the separation
Regarding the Airstream’s suspension it was implied that the suspension may not be high quality because the CCC is lower than comparable trailers. Is it possible that the empty vehicle weight is greater because of the construction materials (aluminum vs fiberglass) thereby cutting into your carrying capacity? I would like to hear your opinion of the actual suspension. Aside from that there is so little storage space on an Airstream it might be difficult to overload it anyway.
I love your videos but I have a question I have a 1997 fleetwood pace arrow I’m trying to find the windshields for it HElp with finding it
Wow, that's crazy about Grand design. We avoided Grand design because of other issues and the warranty only being a year. I'm glad they said what they said because now I'm never getting a grand design. Plumbing is big and you don't skimp on that.
I agree, plumbing is super important! I'm glad my viewers are bugging them about it
Our GD was pure junk! We used it 3 times in 2 years. The rest of the time it was at the factory or the dealer. I forced them to repurchase it from us.
Hi. I'm an Airstream owner and owner of an engineering company. I looked forever for a touchpad entry system for Airstreams and found that there are none that can be installed without substantial modifications to the door and strike. So I designed and built one. I did it just for myself, but it turned out better than I expected. I'd love to send one to you for a fair review. I think you'll love it, but I'll take your honest assessment. How can I get you to do a review for me?
The kitchen drawers in my airstream globetrotter got some water and swell and started to crumble
KYD just did a video on front-body separation. It looks like a lot of work
What is insulation they use??
Please review a Rockwood MiniLite !
I've added it to my list. Thanks for the request!
Would an aluminum skin cause more condensation in winter? Would it take more propane to keep warm? Would it be hotter in summer if not in a shaded area?
No, No & No - they are airtight and insulated well with an enclosed underbelly. We're on our 5th RV. Our Airstream runs circles around the "white boxes".
We have a 27' airstream globetrotter, and had a 22' airstream bambi before it. I haven't had any other travel trailers, so I don't have anything to compare it to. But I will say that you've zeroed in one one of my main gripes about both airstreams. It has an aluminum outer skin, aluminum structural ribs, and an aluminum inner skin. There's a reason aluminum is used for heat sinks and radiators in cars... it's extremely efficient at passing heat (and cold) through it. We spend 6 weeks in our trailer in AZ in Jan and part of Feb each year (I'm writing this from my aluminum tube right now!). We go through a lot of propane keeping the thing warm at night. Althgou the air is warm, you can feel the cold radiating off of the walls. The windows are single pane, so on cold nights, there's lots of condensation in the glass.
We don't get condensation on the aluminum walls though. Just the windows.
The build quality of these trailers is pretty good overall. The cabinets are really nice. But as a perpetual tinkerer, I'm constantly finding things to improve or upgrade or fix. The appliances airstream uses seem to be the same as any other travel trailer. So I kind of think you're paying for expensive aluminum and the 2-man labor required to buck rivet it, the brand name, and the unique look and nostalgia of airstreams. So I do tend to think they're a bit overpriced. We love our trailer overall though.
@@pierpalicious The one thing allot of Airstream owners forget is how easy they are to tow, & the amount you save on fuel towing a Airstream because of the design, & weight; Compared to box trailer.
Appreciate your review. Would really like to see a review of DRV Mobil suites and Forest River Riverstone Legacy. What is your thought on the Moryde independent suspension system
Have u spent anytime on Riverstone RV?
Love these videos 👍🏻🍻
Thanks! Glad you like them!
Are Gulfstream Vista Cruiser's,good trailer's.
What are your thoughts on the Isotherm 12 volt refrigerators.
My grand design leaked after 1 week. I replaced all the hose to pex. I'm currently in progress to get something from them.
Sorry to hear that. You're not alone, I've had to fix those bad connections all the time for clients. I wish they would just do it right the first time!
You mentioned in this video that you were going "undercover" to examine, in an upcoming video, a travel trailer that many consider similar to the Airstream, but at half the cost. Let me guess which brand you're referring to. I have been researching the Intech brand since summer 2022. I've watched every TH-cam walkthrough video multiple times, including two in-depth factory tour videos. I have reached out and spoken to factory reps in Nappanee, IN on several occasions but as yet have never actually been able to pull the drawers, open the cabinets, sit on the commode, stand in the shower stall, or crawl underneath, ya know, "kick the tires".
I went to the Gulf Coast RV Show in Mobile, AL last week, there were no Intech's, in fact to my surprise, none of the six dealers at the show including, Great American, Dads, Blue Compass, and Williams Family, all claimed to have never heard of Intech Travel Trailers. I am sooo interested in them, that next week I am going to the RV Supershow in Tampa, FL because the Intech rep in Nappanee, IN, promised to have all of their "Rover" models there on display. I'd love to hear your comments on Intech trailers if you can find one to review.
Thanks Arthur
What is your opinion of the manufacturer "Forest River" Rockwood?
Thank you for an honest review.
You mentioned the fit and finish of the Airstreams, on the surface they look good, but there is something you might not know. The ducting for the AC if the Airstream is ducted, has a poor seal at the duct. The duct vent does not pull the duct and the interior ceiling together, this allows the air to get in between the ceiling and the duct work, impacting the efficiency of the cooling, because it balloon between the ceiling and insulation. I hope I explained it well.
Your videos are informative, please keep up the work.
do you have a recommendation brand and model for a relatively smaller fifth wheel that can fit at least 7 people?
Including the cabinet material, ie plywood, what is your assessment of the wrap? I have plywood cabinets on a very high end and high rated RV, , however when wet, the wrap peeled off and totally ruined the cabinets
Thank you Arthur great video.
Great reviews!
Glad you like them!
Is a used Flying Cloud a good option for full time living and traveling about 5-8k miles a year?
Glad you’re back it’s been to long
Thanks! Glad to be back! I was working hard on getting this new app/database/shopping course created. I can't review all the RVs myself, but I want to empower all my viewers to be able to shop smart
We bought a new Classic in 2020 and only kept a year. Constant problems… was in the shop more than we ever used it. Sold it back to the dealer. It was beautiful but quality was very poor.
Nice fair review.
My dad had 2 Airstreams both 31'. '78 and a '79. The '79 finally a repair shop in '95 I forgot for what... But a non Airstream dealer repaired the problem... Other than that... My dad needed to stay away from BBQ pits (use your imagination )... But like we say in bikes If it has breast or tires maintenance will happen!! I'll look out for your next video on the 1/2 price RV.
For full timer what fifth wheel would you recommend, the best? Question quality.
Right before I watched your video I watched the video where Vinnie does a modification of the framework for a Flying Cloud. As the owner for a 27FBT Flying Cloud I a concerned.
Please review and score a 2024 Bigfoot travel trailer.
Do you recommend a model of couples trailer or are they all money pits?
I have a 2023 sandstorm 304 gslr are they any good?
The only Airstreams, of any model that are good, are the vintage ones. Of course, those are remodeled by handy people with excellent craftsmanship.
Have you ever done a hard review of a Casita, Scamp, Oliver or Eclipse?
good info -i like
airstream quality
All I know from my Airstream 23FB is that they cut corners to save money. My foot when through the floor one morning which revealed a bigger problem, I love cold weather camping, and assumed that any condensation would drain out, I thought of course Airstream would plan for that. Wrong. My unit (new units now use composite flooring) had plywood floor, which rotted out due to condensation from the windows causing mold and mildew. The tech told me that Airstream knew about this issue, but only installed mold/mildew resistant flooring at the entrance lip and shower lip, the most common warranty issues. What irked me was that the cost difference for kitchen bath mold/mildew resistant treated plywood was about $5 a sheet. I had a $25k repair, because Airstream decided to save about $50. Airstream KNEW some of their viewers would face major repairs, but only improved the entrance and shower areas to save $50. as those major repairs would occur AFFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRED.
Damp climate cold weather camping can generate condensation inside the aluminum skin….
Which can cause damage.
T or F ?
I’ve been following several Airstream Facebook pages, TH-cam channels, and I’ve never heard of a frame issue with AS. This was a first for me.
Look at KYD's youtube post for this past week. They go through front end separation, cause and repair. We purchased a 2023 25'' twin International this past fall....I'm hoping AS has done some frame beefing on this year class. We won't be hanging bikes off the backend et cetera but did remodel converting the bench dinette area to recliners so did have some weight changes to the unit. We'll see I guess. As I understand it other brands do see front end issues also.
Great Job !
Would ever consider reviewing Nucamp?
Sure! I'll add it to my list, thanks for the recommendation
Whats the name of the App. How do i get it?
I’ve had campers for over a decade, considering an airstream for my last camper entering into retirement. Your scores would lead me to believe they are one of the better ones out there.
Airstreams do have slideouts guy rare though
You mean the Atlas? I don't think anyone really thinks of that as an Airstream.
After watching your channel for a while now, I don't even think I want to buy a camper. It's so disappointing to learn how low the build quality is.
If only I had the budget for a New Horizon RV like the 2024 36RK3S triple axle, which is just about 38 feet in length. Unfortunately, the price tag can be well over 300 K.
Have you any on the other models like the international? Or globetrotter?
I like Airstream a lot. Sad to hear about that front trunk affecting trailer like that. Wonder what causes it
We shopped Airstream but decided on an Oliver Legacy Elite II based on the quality of the manufacturing and customer service. I’d be interested to hear your take on Oliver Travel Trailers.
I like the built quality of the Oliver but the sterile alien ship white interior was a deal breaker for me. It felt like a hospital😅 escape is a bit wider and some humanly warm wood decor and fabrics felt more friendly
Aesthetics aside, I’d love to see a review on your channel of an Oliver. After taking the factory tour, we felt the quality and craftsmanship of the Oliver was second to none. It only takes few decorative touches to soften the “sterile” interior. If you are ever in the Florida panhandle area, we’d love to show you ours.
Great job
Thanks!
With regards to Airstream being overpriced, go look for a used one. You won't find a bargain. Do some math on the total cost of ownership over your expected camping experience, and if you can swing the initial price, it's probably cheaper than a conventional travel trailer that plummets in value over that same period. Some are holding 90% of their value after three years.
It depends. We buy used and find that by the time we're ready to sell our rv's we can sell it for quite a bit more than what we bought it for. If we took the time to paint them we could make a few thousand more off of them.
Sell mine 45 or 50fy book 12
elieve Airstream made a rig with a slide at one time?
What airstream 25 ‘+ is the A grade ??
Glad I found this streamer. Cheers
We used to travel in a bus, so that’s what the airstream reminds me of. We like airstreams, but I just don’t fit our style of camping, We need more room.