How to Rebuild an Airstream Camper

Airstreams are classic travel trailers.

Airstream campers are unique and vintage-style travel trailers. These campers can be purchased used from a variety of sources, but many of these old trailers require restoration. The restoration process allows you to customize different features if desired. You can also restore the camper to match the original model. Obtain a manual for your model, before beginning the restoration, to gain a basic understanding of the parts and floor plan. Restoring your Airstream can be done with basic tools, but it will require several weeks of hard work if no parts are salvageable.

Things You'll Need

• RV sealing tape
• Spot welder
• Hammer
• Crow bar
• 2-by-3s
• Paint and brushes
• Cabinet faces
• Furniture faces
• Copper pipe patches or PVC piping
• Water pump
• New propane tanks
• Propane hose
• Light bulbs

Instructions

1. Inspect the interior of the trailer for damage. Determine which parts must be replaced. Look for any staining and water damage to find the source of leaks.

2. Fix any leaks by placing waterproof RV tape over the compromised area. If the leak runs along a seam in the metal, repair it by spot-welding the seam together.

3. Disconnect and remove the propane tanks. Disconnect the trailer from all power sources. Use a hammer and crowbar to remove all damaged materials from the trailer. This includes the bed, tables, benches and cabinetry. Also remove the carpet or hardwood from the floor if it is damaged.

4. Rebuild the furniture and cabinetry to match the design you removed. If you only removed the face of the furniture and left the framing intact, simply paint plywood or custom furniture faces and replace them with finishing nails. If you removed the wood framing, use 2-by-3s to build new frames and attach new faces.

5. Connect the Airstream to the power. Check the propane hose for damage and replace the hose if necessary. Use a new propane tank if the old one expired. Fill the water reservoir and check all of the plumbing for leaks. Repair leaks in the plumbing with copper plumbing patches or replace the original plumbing with a new PVC system.

6. Test the sink and shower. Replace the water pump if the sink and shower do not function properly. Test the power and all of the power-related appliances. Replace the light bulbs and run electronics from the outlets to ensure they are getting power.

7. Turn on the stove and check the refrigerator. Replace the appliances if they do not function. Newer model RV refrigerators are more efficient and are compatible with most Airstreams.

Tips & Warnings

• Add custom upholstery for a unique interior look. Also, wash and polish the metal exterior and replace the tires.

References

• Airstream Restoration: Day 1
• Airstream Trailer: Restored 1964 Globetrotter