Skip to main content

mod@tech

Overnight Stay in a 1955 Airstream Camp Trailer

One of my favorite pieces of art in my home is a framed magazine advertisement for the 1950 Buick that discusses how a husband and wife daringly took their “Dynaflow” transmission-equipped Special four-door all the way up the Alcan highway from the Lower 48 to Fairbanks while towing a travel trailer. “People couldn’t believe their eyes,” it said.

Back in the 1950s – and even beyond – it was not uncommon for people to tow campers, boats, and other types of trailers behind their passenger cars. Heck, even the owner’s manual for my 1994 Acura has a chapter dedicated to towing instructions. Nowadays, though, you’d probably void your warranty on a modern car or crossover trying to tow much of anything around.

Airstream Backstory

Much like the chrome-laden vehicles of the 1950s, some of the camp trailers from the era were equally flashy. One of the popular brands on the market was Airstream. The company had been founded in about 1930 in California. One of its first trailers was a 1936 model for $1,200 that could house four occupants as well as provide electric lights and a water supply. Airstreams were manufactured with aerospace-grade aluminum and riveted construction – allowing them to remain relatively lightweight, yet strong. From a design perspective, they were known for having rounded “silver bullet” shapes and a low center of gravity.

Shady Dell History

As part of a year-end adventure, I decided to make the trek to the Shady Dell RV Park in Bisbee, Arizona. It was about a 215-mile, 3.5-hour trek one-way from the Phoenix area to Bisbee.

Shady Dell’s history dates back to 1927 – nearly 100 years ago – when it was established as a stop along the highway for people to park their cars and trailers. The RV park lies along historic Highway 80 and is home to 18 restored travel trailers, a yacht, and even a tiki-themed bus – all styled in period-correct décor. It’s a step back in time and a place rich in nostalgia.

My Stay in a 1955 Airstream

The check-in process was slick – the key was simply left inside my unit. I made my way around the property and settled in. Along the way, I noticed a few classic cars around the property, including a 1958 Checker taxi in the front parking lot, a 1954 Chevrolet 210, and a 1955 Cadillac Eldorado. Each one looked like it had a lot of stories to tell.

As for my camp trailer, which was unit number 9: Airstream had skills it came to maximizing available space. Every nook and cranny was accounted for – two small beds, a couch, a kitchenette, and a bathroom. My favorite feature inside the wood-paneled interior was a small record player and a library of music selections. I played some period-correct music to get into the mood. The Airstream had everything except a shower, but communal showers were located just steps away, and I wasn’t too worried about taking a shower on a quick overnight trip.

One thing that did catch me by surprise was that the power outlets inside the trailer were two-prong instead of three, so I couldn’t charge my laptop computer. But that ended up being a blessing – what better reason to emotionally unplug and enjoy a night away! As dusk settled in, I viewed the colorful skies from the chairs outside my front door before calling it a night.

For on-site food options with a nostalgic feel, Shady Dell has a vintage 1957 Valentine diner on-site called Dot’s, which is open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Thursday to Monday. I elected to walk over to the Bisbee Breakfast Club in Lowell for breakfast, instead – more to come on that in a future story. I highly recommend checking out the Shady Dell!

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1962 Chevrolet C10 4-Speed

Right now on AutoHunter, you can find this customized 1962 Chevrolet C10, which is powered by a 350ci V8 paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Finished in Pearl Gray over a beige leather interior, this two-wheel-drive classic American pickup is now offered by the selling dealer in Oregon with a clear title.

The exterior has a nice, clean look, thanks to its Pearl Gray paint job. Features include a silver front bumper, driver-side mirror, exposed fuel cap, sliding rear window, wood bed slats, tailgate chains, and body-color roll pan. The exhaust exits through two pairs of bright rectangular outlets.

The neutral color scheme carries down to this truck’s set of black 15-inch wheels, which are wrapped in 235/75 Lionhart radials. Those rollers, combined with the lowered suspension, make this truck look sporty and ready to rip down the road. Manual drum brakes help keep it in between the lines.

Inside, Chevy’s “Comfort-King” cab has been outfitted with beige leather bucket seats, beige and gray door panels, aftermarket wood-rimmed steering wheel, and sport pedals. Other features include a floor-mounted manual shifter and Bluetooth-compatible AM/FM Alpine stereo.

The Dolphin instrumentation consists of a 140-mph speedometer and water temperature, voltage, oil pressure, and fuel level gauges. An aftermarket 8,000-rpm tachometer is mounted under the dash. The odometer shows zero miles, but this truck is mileage-exempt according to its title.

Chevy didn’t offer a 350ci V8 for the C10 in 1962, but this truck has one. Even better, its 350 is connected to an aftermarket intake manifold, four-barrel carburetor, and headers. A four-speed manual gearbox sends the engine’s output to the rear end.

Slick looks and a bigger engine with a stick is a great combo. If that’s what you want in your next classic vehicle, bid on this 1962 Chevrolet C10 custom pickup right now. The auction for it ends on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 11:45 a.m. (MST).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

Pick of the Day: 1976 Chevrolet K5 Blazer 4X4

There are three basic types of hybrids. The first is the European exotics of the 1960s and 1970s powered by American V8s, such as the Monteverde High Speed and Iso Grifo. The second type of hybrid is something we see a lot of these days: vehicles equipped with an electric motor, a battery, and an internal-combustion engine. The third variety of hybrid combines the fun of off-roading with the pleasure of open-air driving, such as our Pick of the Day. You can find this 1976 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Cheyenne 4X4 listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Milford, Michigan.

If you’re familiar with the old-school Blazers, you probably know that 1975 was the last year for the one-piece removable hardtop. The 1976 model year brought a steel half top over the front seats and a removable rear cap that covered the rear seats and cargo area.

However, this Blazer isn’t your ordinary ’76. It was restored in 2021, a process which brought fresh white paint, an NOS grille, and a new saddle tan interior with Vintage Air A/C and Dakota Digital gauges.

Without a doubt, the most notable part of this ’76 Blazer is what isn’t there: the half top and the removable rear cap. Someone converted it to go fully topless and equipped it with a slant-back canvas roof that can be fully closed, partially open once the plastic side and rear windows are rolled up, or removed.

The changes didn’t stop there. As part of the overhaul, a new 350ci V8 crate engine was installed and paired with a rebuilt 700R4 four-speed automatic and a rebuilt New Process dual-range transfer case that delivers the engine’s grunt to the locking front hubs and a set of 15-inch polished aluminum wheels wrapped in General Grabber tires.

It may be cold right now, but spring will be here before you know it. That’s a great time to get outdoors, which you’ll be able to see, hear, and feel all around you in this 1976 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Cheyenne 4X4. You can do that for $59,476.

Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com

14 Cars That Accidentally Became Cultural Icons

Throughout automotive history, certain vehicles have transcended their original design and purpose, becoming symbols deeply embedded in popular culture and societal identity. These cars, often unassuming in their inception, have inadvertently captured the public’s imagination, representing the spirit of their times and influencing historical movements. Their unique designs, affordability, and appearances in media have solidified their status as cultural icons, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness.

Source

12 Cars That Were Misunderstood When They Were New

Throughout automotive history, certain vehicles have been ahead of their time, introducing innovative features or designs that were not immediately appreciated. These cars often faced skepticism or indifference upon release, only to be recognized later for their visionary contributions. Factors such as groundbreaking technology, unconventional styling, or unique performance characteristics can lead to initial misjudgment. Over time, however, these vehicles earn admiration as their true value becomes evident. This phenomenon highlights the evolving nature of automotive design and consumer acceptance.

Source

14 Vehicles That Were Ahead of Their Time — and Paid the Price

Innovation in the automotive industry often carries significant risk. Vehicles that introduce advanced features before consumers are ready can face commercial failure, even if these ideas are later embraced industry-wide. This phenomenon underscores the delicate balance between pioneering design and market readiness. Understanding these instances offers valuable insights into the challenges of automotive innovation.

Source

12 Cars That Deserved a Second Chance but Never Got One

The automotive industry has witnessed numerous vehicles with exceptional potential that, due to factors like timing, market trends, or misunderstood innovation, failed to receive the revival or recognition they deserved. These models, often ahead of their time, left a lasting impression on enthusiasts and collectors. This article delves into twelve such cars, exploring their unique qualities and the reasons they never got a second chance in the spotlight.

Source

13 Cars That Redefined What ‘Affordable Performance’ Meant

Throughout automotive history, certain vehicles have challenged the traditional view of performance cars as exclusive, high-priced machines. By combining speed, precision, and accessibility, these models have made exhilarating driving experiences attainable for a broader range of enthusiasts. This evolution has not only broadened the appeal of performance vehicles but also inspired a new generation of drivers to embrace the thrill of the road without financial constraints. In this article, we explore 13 cars that have redefined the concept of affordable performance, each leaving a lasting impact on the automotive landscape.

Source

10 Cars That Changed the Industry Without Anyone Noticing

Throughout automotive history, certain vehicles have introduced groundbreaking technologies and designs that, despite their initial obscurity, have profoundly influenced the industry. These innovations often emerged quietly, without the fanfare of more celebrated models, yet their impact is undeniable. By examining these unsung pioneers, we can appreciate how subtle advancements have shaped the modern automotive landscape. For instance, the AMC Amitron of 1967 introduced regenerative braking and advanced battery designs, laying the groundwork for today’s electric vehicles. Similarly, the AMC Eagle of 1980 pioneered the crossover segment, blending the features of a station wagon and an SUV, a concept now ubiquitous in the market. These examples underscore the significance of innovations that, while initially overlooked, have left an indelible mark on automotive design and functionality.

Source

10 Cars That Looked Ordinary but Were Engineering Masterpieces

Throughout automotive history, some of the most groundbreaking innovations have emerged from vehicles that appeared unremarkable at first glance. These cars prove that true engineering brilliance doesn’t always require flashy designs or hefty price tags. For instance, the Saab 900 Turbo, with its understated appearance, concealed a turbocharged engine that delivered exhilarating performance, earning it a dedicated following among enthusiasts. Similarly, the Lexus LS400, with its conservative styling, introduced a level of refinement and reliability that set new standards in the luxury sedan market. These examples highlight how engineering excellence can be found in the most unexpected packages, challenging the notion that performance and innovation are synonymous with extravagance. (motor-junkie.com)

Source