Airstream® Parts And Upgrades 101
Many Airstream RVs can benefit from an upgrade. Maybe the rig spent the last several years on the open road and certain parts are worn down. Maybe the camper is an older model that can use an update to better fit today's travel world. Either way, you can learn about the upgrading process with the below guide. If you have questions or want professional help upgrading your RV, visit the experts at Airstream of New Mexico. Our parts replacement and service department is ready to help! You'll find us in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and we also serve those in Santa Fe and Las Cruces.
How To Find Parts
Finding the right parts is easy when you own an Airstream RV! The company tends to use broad parts that suit many of their models (rather than manufacturing parts with only one specific model in mind). This versatility of the parts increases the chances of finding what you need. You won't often be stuck hunting down a hyper-specific part that is only used by a certain model from a certain year. It's even possible to find parts for an Airstream model made as far back as the 1950s!
There are two great resources for locating a needed part. First, look through a catalog of Airstream parts. Second, ask an Airstream dealership to order parts. Talking to an Airstream dealer can be the more efficient approach. Let the expert do all the legwork of figuring out what specific part you need, ordering it for you, and installing it.
Common Airstream RV Upgrades
A new and improved Airstream camper is only an upgrade away! There are many ways to tweak an RV to improve the travel experience. We've gathered up some of the most commonly needed parts below.
Wi-Fi And Cell Signal Boosters
Older Airstream models are great candidates for this upgrade. They may have been built before smartphones became a key part of everyone's life. Or they may simply not offer the strongest signals. Use a Wi-Fi and cell phone signal booster and enjoy improved connections for everyone's devices.
The Battery
Even the highest quality batteries will eventually get worn down. The more often the battery is used, the quicker it will wear out. Those who go dry-camping on a regular basis, for example, will be due to replace the battery sooner. When choosing the next battery, consider a lithium or AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery to get boosted power.
Name Plates And Decals
Airstream trailers sport iconic signage on their exterior. These name plates and decals proudly showcase the company name and logo. But over time, they can get worn off or damaged. Fortunately, it's easy to replace them. There are many different stylistic options to choose from, so you can even get a name plate and decal that better suits your aesthetic preferences.
Shore Power
The shore power connection in an RV tends to be consistent and reliable. But it can run hot when power-draining appliances (such as air conditioning units) are used. It's also not uncommon for owners to accidentally strip the threads in the process of attaching the cable. Upgrading the shore power connections can be helpful and can even result in increased power and durability.
Lighting
Many RVs use incandescent or halogen bulbs. These are more cost-effective for the manufacturer to use, which helps keep asking prices lower for consumers. But a better long-term lighting approach is to use LED lights. These light bulbs burn brighter, consume less power, and even last longer. They do cost more upfront, but they need to be replaced less often and end up saving owners money in the long run.
We hope you found this guide useful! For expert help upgrading your Airstream RV, check out the parts replacement and service department at Airstream of New Mexico. We can get your camper updated and ready for the open road in no time. We also offer Airstream RVs for sale if you are looking to buy. Whatever you need, find it at our RV dealership. We proudly serve those in Sante Fe and Las Cruces, New Mexico.