How To Polish An Airstream Travel Trailer?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

It’s cost-effective to do it yourself.

Professional Airstream polishing typically runs

$100 to $200 per foot of trailer length

. So a 25 foot Airstream could be quoted at anywhere from $2500 to $5000. The price is mostly driven by the cost of local labor.

Should I polish Airstream?


All Airstreams can be polished to a very nice shine

. However, not every trailer can achieve the eye-popping mirror of a vintage Airstream. As a general rule, the softer the aluminum alloy (higher aluminum content), the better the shine. Airstreams built up to 1982 used a .

How do I restore the outside of my Airstream?

How often do you have to polish an Airstream?

You will need to re-polish your Airstream

every 1-2 years

after it was initially done if you want to keep it looking decent. This shouldn’t be the same effort as the first time you have it polished. It’s just a “once-over” to bring the shine back.

How do I keep my Airstream shiny?


A microfiber wash mitt or an extra soft wash brush

is what we recommend when washing an Airstream. Paired with basic car wash soap, this will give you the best chance at keeping the clear coat in good condition. To wash, I have found it was best to do it in 4 sections: front, back, roadside & curbside.

Do Airstream trailers hold their value?

Do Airstream campers hold their value? When you purchase a camper of any sort, you can bet that there’s going to be depreciation for the first few years right after you have purchased it.

Airstreams, however, will hold their value

and continue to provide you with the comfort and the durability you are looking for.

How long does polish last Airstream?

Most people recommend re-polishing an Airstream every

six months to a year

. Yes, you can apply a non-wax sealant made for cars and boats, but the jury is out on whether it really slows down the rate of re-oxidation, and you need to remove it before re-polishing.

How do you polish a travel trailer?

What’s the best way to polish aluminum?

How do you buff an aluminum camper?

How do you clean an old Airstream?

What is an Airstream Argosy?

Argosy trailers were made by Airstream Company starting 1971 in Versailles, OH. near Jackson Center and are usually recognized as “

Painted Airstreams

”. A small percentage were also manufactured in the California Airstream factory. These can be recognized with Airsteam instead of Argosy on the VIN plate.

Do you wax Airstream?

What can I use to clean my Airstream?

Oil, grease, dust, and dirt may be removed by washing with

any mild non-abrasive soap or detergent

. Cleaning should be followed by a thorough clean water rinse. Drying the unit with a chamois or a soft cloth may prevent spots and streaks.

How often should I wax my RV?

Waxing your RV should be thought of as must-do maintenance

twice a year

to keep the paint in good shape. Not only does it keep the paint looking better, but also it will help prevent staining and sometimes chipping. When waxing, do a two-foot section at a time.

Why do Airstreams last so long?

Airstreams can last for 40 years or longer if properly taken care of.

Their aluminum body is the key feature that makes it lightweight, aerodynamic, and durable to the elements

. The aluminum increases the price but also the quality and longevity.

Can you pressure wash an Airstream?

Why you shouldn’t buy an Airstream?

Buying an Airstream

can be a needlessly expensive endeavor

The most inexpensive travel trailer that Airstream offers is the Basecamp, which will run you just under $40,000. And the worst part? It’s not even that spacious. It sleeps up to four people, and that’s pretty much it.

When did they stop making Airstream trailers?

The aluminum motorhomes were followed by more traditional-looking fiberglass models in the 1990s. Airstream discontinued manufacture of Class A motorhomes in

2006

.

Do Airstreams leak?

Airstream RVs are no different as

they certainly have the potential to leak

. Over time and with wear and tear the seals that keep your Airstream sealed will break down. When this happens you will start to notice leaks. However by doing the proper maintenance you can avoid leaks all together.

How do you maintain an Airstream trailer?

  1. Brakes. Inspect or replace as necessary.
  2. Nev-R-Lube. Visually inspect wheel bearings at tire rotation. …
  3. Tires. Inspect and rotate.
  4. Spare Tire Carrier. Lubricate moving parts.
  5. Windows, and Door Seals. Clean with mild detergent and coat with “Slipicone.”
  6. Exterior. Wax.
  7. Escape Window.

Do Airstream trailers rust?

1) Corrosion


Metal can be corroded

and Airstreams are made entirely out of metal. One cause of corrosion can come from magnesium.

Should you wax a camper?

Failure to use the proper wax can result in oxidation, which can cause fiberglass to seem chalky or dull in appearance.

Waxing your RV will also provide it with an additional layer of protection from the elements and general wear and tear

.

How do you wax an RV trailer?

Can you buff an RV?

One of the bigger projects in maintaining your RV is keeping the outer shell clean and shiny. This involves frequent application of a good wax. It also means

using a buffing compound and buffer after a few years when the finish starts to fade or get chalky

.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.