The 1961 Shasta Airflyte canned ham trailer is coming back! Well, in a limited edition run, that is. To mark its 75th anniversary, Shasta RV this September will launch production of 1,941 copies of the company’s iconic 1961 Shasta Airflyte travel trailer. On the outside, you likely won’t be able to distinguish the old from the new. On the inside: The reproduction anniversary Shasta will get a vintage look like the original, too, but with modern mechanicals and plumbing. Sticker price is expected to run $15,000 to $17,000. On Wednesday, I spoke with company President Mark Lucas about the introduction – and I’m excited.
First, props to RV Daily Report, which first reported this story. And, thanks to reader Shara, who tipped us to this news.
My interview with Mark Lucas, president of Shasta RV
I tracked Lucas down while he was waiting to get on an airplane in Knoxville, Tenn. To be sure, he sounded juiced about the project, too.
“Shasta is the oldest name in the industry,” he said. “We started in 1941, and are still in production today – even older than Airstream, for example.” Launched in 1941 – 1,941 reproductions to celebrate the 75th anniversary – get it?
Lucas told me that after he joined the company two years ago, he began to notice that competitors were increasingly putting retro-iconic cues on to their products – cues that were basically imitating some of the classic 1961 Shasta features – like the “canned ham” shape and Shasta wings.
Just how popular was that original ’61 Airflyte? Lucas explained that Shasta first introduced the “canned ham” shape in 1954, built in Shasta’s Los Angeles plant on another model trailer… the Airflyte was introduced in 1961… and by 1967, the look was over.
During that time span, though, Shasta was #1 in the world, with five production facilities in the U.S., including one in Goshen, Indiana, the historic epicenter of trailer manufacturing, he said. Today, the company still operates two production facilities, both in Middlebury, Indiana.
Looking at what was happening in the increasingly retro-inspired RV market, Lucas told me he thought, “Why aren’t we in this game?” And as he dug deeper, “Why don’t we just reissue the original?”
Lucas said that he is a “car guy.” The 1960 Cadillac in the glamour shot, above, belongs to his wife — that’s him, with the first reproduction Airflyte. He knew – from being a car guy – that the first step to creating a repro was to get his hands on an original.
Wanted: 1961 Shasta Airflyte for parts – all of them!
So, he went hunting for a 1961 Shasta Airflyte, and once he found it, brought it into one of the plants to take a look at. His partner in flying-under-the-corporate-radar skunks works crime was Mark Dunithan, Shasta RV’s head engineer.
Mark Dunithan — on the right, with Lucas — was a car guy, too, Lucas told me. “He drives a ’53 Chevy pickup that looks like it was found new in a barn. He was a great partner. He really jumped into this project.”
The two Marks – along with the help of craftspeople at the plant – got to work. Within two days, the vintage Shasta was stripped down to its frame. The idea was to disassemble it, learn from it, and use the pieces as a guide for new patterns and parts specifications. (Ultimately, the vintage model was also reassembled and restored.) The Shasta RV team also found old design materials in their archives that helped.
Other employees also were eager to be a part of the special project. “Line workers worked weekends and after hours… stopping… starting – to make sure that when we walked out there, that it felt like a ‘61. There was a lot of trial and error,” Lucas said. He recalled one employee’s above-and-beyond attention to detail, “’That wing – if we move it down three inches – it will look better,’ he told me. It strikes a chord – employees are really proud that we’ve reissued this, too,” he said. “This was totally heart and soul.”
Interestingly, Lucas said, getting his hands on a vintage ‘61 Shasta in good shape took more effort than he expected. “It was hard to find one in restorable condition – either they are too far gone or already restored.” I believe this. Those canned ham Shastas: Everyone wants ‘em. Like Lucas said, they are iconic – they have ‘the look’ — and that 16’ length is kind of not too big, not too small, just right.
Creating “a 90% replica”
The team has been very successful at meeting the goal, he said. He called the 2015 model a “90% replica,” so much so that “most of the new parts will fit into the old one.” The metal siding is even applied using circa-1961 methods (which are different than today’s) to ensure a water-tight seal given the design, he said.
The interior has a retro diner feel. Interior features include:
- Birch cabinet doors with chevron cabinet pulls; birch plywood elsewhere in the interior.
- Countertops with dogbone-pattern Formica trimmed in polished aluminum edging. (Original Airflyte countertops were sparkle laminate with cracks; Lucas told me he tried to find this, but of course, we know you can’t get it any more!)
- LED lighting reproduced to look like the original ’61 Shasta Airflyte gas lamp.
- Jalousie windows!
- Bench seating upholstered in two-tone, tuck-and-roll pleather with silver welt; red has a bit of an aged look.
- Black-and-white checkerboard vinyl floor.
- And you’ll notice – that reproduction birch Shasta magazine rack hanging on the wall!
- Mechanicals – like the stove, microwave, toilet, shower – are new, but chosen to harmonize with the retro interior.
- There’s even a speaker system – but it’s hidden from apparent view, Lucas said.
Exterior colors, painted to look just like the original:
- Seafoam Green
- Buttercup Yellow
- Matador Red – the color from GM in 1961, Lucas said.
You can get one starting in September
That red baby we’re seeing in these photos is Job #1. “We’re building a turquoise and yellow this week,” Lucas said. “The first week of September, we’ll have full production. Each of our two production facilities will be making between 40 and 45 a day, to start, ramping up to 60 a day.” Production will continue until all the orders – up to 1,941 – are filled.
Lucas told me that RV dealers who have been carrying one or more of Shasta’s four current product lines will get priority in submitting orders for the 2015 models. “Shasta has been around for a long time – people who have been with us – we want to reward those dealers.” (Note, Lucas explained to me that unlike auto dealerships, RV dealers can carry any model from any manufacturer.)
A lot of dealers are already submitting orders, he said – which is also helping the company to tweak colors. To order one — head to Shasta RV’s website and use the Dealer Locator.
Want to guess which color is in the lead? Which color would you choose?
Would the company consider extending the run – or making this a permanent addition to the product line? Lucas pretty much told me: No. “I think it takes away the specialness if we extend the run,” he said. Boo to the hoo. How about: Will we see some new, more retro-styled Shastas in the future? Like a good company executive, Lucas would not hint at future plans. Okay, I’ll take that as a ‘maybe’ — fingers crossed – bring on the retro!
How does Lucas feel about all this? We are having a great conversation. Lucas seems thrilled with how the 2015 model turned out and even gets – kinda gushy — which really impresses me. “It made me feel like I’m in mother’s kitchen, which is absolutely a place where I feel at home and loved.” Awwww. We understand.
He his wife have four children of their own now, and he says that he will be buying one of the 2015 Airflytes, for sure. “I’ll take it to the soccer games on Saturday – watch all four kids – hang out there all day — use it as base camp,” he said.
“I feel a huge responsibility to be at the helm of this brand name, which for a lot of people is tied to their childhood – to trips with their families to Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon…. I want to honor the brand — don’t tarnish those memories – and make those memories again. That’s what I want my kids to remember.”
Link love:
Update: Where to get information about specifications etc.:
If you have any questions about specifications or delivery or any other such technical issue, Mark contributed this information (excerpted here) down in a comment on 9/23. I am excerpting it here to make it easier for buyers and potential buyers to spot, if they want or need further information. Note: Such questions will not be answered in our comments section, you need to go to the resources Mark identifies:
Hello all-
Thanks everyone for the overwhelming interest in the re-issue of the Shasta Airflyte. There is a lot of information swirling around concerning this product, and many of us are becoming concerned about the flow of ACCURATE information.
CURRENTLY, THERE ARE ONLY TWO SOURCES FOR THE LATEST AND MOST ACCURATE INFORMATION:
1. YOUR LOCAL DEALER – http://WWW.SHASTARVING.COM HAS A DEALER LOCATOR WHERE YOU CAN GET IN TOUCH WITH THE CLOSEST SHASTA DEALER
2. THE FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/1961ShastaAirflyteReissuedin2015/
WHICH WAS NOT STARTED BY AND IS NOT MAINTAINED BY SHASTA, BUT RECEIVES FREQUENT UPDATES AND HAS SEVERAL DEALER MEMBERS
Again, I’d like to thank Pam and her group for the great article and getting everyone as enthused as she is about this great period in American design….
Thanks again to Pam. And within the next hour, an update will be posted to the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/1961ShastaAirflyteReissuedin2015/) concerning dry weight, awnings, grab handles, spare tires, the start of production and remaining units.
Mark Lucas
President/General Manager
Shasta RV
All material in this story copyright Retro Renovation 2014.
Garrett says
I’m planning on putting a down payment on a 16′ green camper early next week. It will be our first camper. I’ve asked around a little and have been told by one dealer that the AC can’t be upgraded. I’m worried that the 5000 btu AC isn’t going to keep up with the Texas heat. Plus, the cover doesn’t seem to be very well vented with just a few cutouts for the airflow.
Zane says
Garrett,
I am in the HVAC industry in Arizona, so naturally I had the same concerns as you about the wood panel covering the AC. when ours comes in I am thinking about modifying the panel to be easily removable if it proves to interfere with airflow. As for the concern about the unit only being 5000 BTUe; that would be enough cooling for just under a 200 square foot room with 8 foot ceilings. Being that the square footage of the trailer will be around 100 feet with a ceiling height under 6.5 feet, it should cool the trailer down with no problems. Hope this info helps with making your decision!
Garrett says
Hi Zane,
Thanks you for the input. I feel a little more confident in purchasing one now. I’ve also paid attention to the conversation above about putting in a fan where the vent is. My next concern is the microwave vs. an oven, but I already know that I can get that replaced.
Shannon says
It took a few days but I sent a note via the Shasta site and asked for the nearest dealer and I heard back directly from the dealer himself, and he’s very close. The one that sells them I didn’t even see on my online searches. So my advice is to ask the Shasta people directly if you’re having trouble finding a dealer.
Rick Harris says
Two more questions are 1. Will there be the same number of window panels on the jalousie windows as on the original 61, and 2. Might there be someone out there who makes a custom fit rock guard for the front window that when opened stays up and serves as a awning? I have seen them in photos on restorations, but can’t find someone who makes them.
Mark Lucas says
The jalousie windows are square cornered and mill finish, and will have 2 panes of glass each. Most of the original tooling has been destroyed or lost, so the jalousie mechanisms are more modern. That means a separate crank handle for each pane of glass. The good news is, each pane is sealed with a gasket, so no water getting through! In sent a picture to Pam, and she seemed to think they looked good… I trust she has pretty good taste!
Mark Lucas
President/General Manager
Shasta RV
pam kueber says
Correction: I saw the windows, but the photo was not clear enough for me to make an opinion. Also, I likely would NOT have given an opinion without being there in person!
Mark Lucas says
Oops… Sorry, Pam. I guess I misunderstood you. I’ll get you a better picture of the window and maybe you could share it with those interested. I didn’t mean to put words in your mouth!
Mark Lucas
President/General Manager
Shasta RV
Geronomom says
Wait. I thought they were only going to make the 19 ‘ if the 16′ didn’t sell out?? Is that not correct – you can order either? Do you mInd telling me how many ppl the 19’ comfortably sleeps? We are a family of 4 – which includes 2 teenagers! Also – who did you order thru? I haven’t heard back from any of the 3 dealerships I’ve contacted after sending in initial inquiry’s. And my local dealership (Florida) is totally clueless on this.Thanks!
Steve says
From what my dealer told me they had planned to make 19 foot models from the beginning but have not finalized the floor plan yet. The dealership has no price or many details on the 19 but you can order them. Not all dealers are selling them so you need to find one that is ordering them and get one coming as I don’t think that they will be available very long and I bet the special promotional price will be gone soon as well. I got mine ordered from Country Campers in Lake Mills Wi. Todd is the owner and a great guy to deal with.
Steve says
I do not see how many it is supposed to sleep listed anywhere. I don’t think they have released any specific info on the 19 yet. I would guess 4
Rick Harris says
This would be a question for Mark or anybody out there who has an answer. Just put down my deposit for a seafoam green 16′ as we had the 61 or 62 when I was a kid. It was turquoise, but seafoam green is close enough. I am hoping they will come with a fantastic-fan roof vent. Can anyone shed some light on what the center roof vent will be?
Mark Lucas says
Rick
The roof vent will be a traditional non-power manual lift vent. The size is the same as a fantastic fan or create-a-breeze, so it would be a simple swap for you or the dealer. 12 volt power would be available at any of the LED lights in the ceiling.
Mark Lucas
President/General Manager
Shasta RV
Steve says
I just ordered / put a deposit on a 19 foot Seafoam Green unit and can’t wait for this fall! I am thrilled that they will come with a awning. I was wondering if there will be a spare tire and mounting bracket available?
Kelly says
What price range did they quote you on the 19? Thanks!
Steve says
We guessed 2000.00 more than the 16 so 16900.00 if it’s less I pay the lower amount if more I can cancell.
Steve says
Actually 16999.00
Mark Lucas says
The rear bumper is made of c-channel, just like the original. Therefore, it will not accommodate a spare tire and carrier. Color matched wheels and tires can be ordered through your dealer so you have one “just in case”.
Mark Lucas
President/General Manager
Shasta RV
Joe anderson says
Just wanted to give some feedback about what color is winning the race! So far sea foam green is at our dealership, about 2 to 1 over red. I was thinking red would be winning, I still think red May catch up. We have open slots on all colors available and can ship them anywhere in US and canada
Visit http://www.1961shastaairflyte.com
Joe Anderson with terrytownrv
616-375-0938
Kathleen says
Hello. I was thrilled to read about this reissue. But, I made numerous calls to WA state dealers. Nobody knew anything. I also called the company to find a Pacific NW dealer and have yet to hear back. I also inquired as to whether or not an A/C could be installed in a vintage Shasta. All this has put me thinking maybe I should find a vintage one and redo it. So, I guess my real question is if these sell-out will you make any more? I would LOVE a pink one. Seems like there is an untapped market for customizable Airflytes with repro colored fixtures – like a pink oven – and marmoleum.
Thanks,
Kathleen
pam kueber says
Kathleen, Mark answers the question about whether they will do more in the story. As for no call back, I know that this story got many thousands of hits via our FB page and otherwise. I am getting: Shasta RV has been deluged with calls.
As to colors: I am guessing it would be “relatively” easy to change out the colors and fixtures once you had one in-hand.
I believe that Mark is monitoring this thread and I am betting he will also respond…
Kelly May says
Wow these are gorgeous. I love looking at the restored ones on Facebook from the group “tin can tourists” I so wish I could afford one of these they are absolutely beautiful. You have really done an awesome job bringing these back! Can’t wait to see these on the road!!! Do they sell these in Indiana ???? I live in Indy and had no idea these we’re being remade!
Bill McBrayer says
We currently have twelve of these on order here at Dalton’s RV in Sheridan Wyoming and they are already creating a lot of excitement with our customers.