annbclay
Active Member
Posts: 108 
Likes: 12
1961 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by annbclay on May 18, 2014 16:50:06 GMT -8
I recently bought a 61 shasta compact and am IN LOVE. She is in pretty good shape but I need advice on the type of place to take her for the following questions....
I want to double check the chassis is in top form & find out how to keep it that way, Make sure the bearings are packed (I'm quite handy but no auto mechanic), see if they recommend brakes on her for my particular tow vehicle and determine if a longer trailer tongue will help with her wag (she doesn't like to go over 50 mph and on a longer trip that's gonna be rough).
I also want want to get a bumper put on her and an updated hitch that can be locked.
So should I go to an RV sales place? A storage/moving trailer sales place? A mechanic? Since she is vintage will the RV places for mega campers have a clue about what is right for her? I'd like to learn first hand from someone about how to keep her in good towing form, etc.
Any and all advice is quite welcome, and yes I have been reading quite a bit in forums, etc. Still, I need a bit of in person advice.
thanks,
ann b
|
|
|
|
Post by vikx on May 18, 2014 22:19:32 GMT -8
Hi annb and welcome!
What is your tow vehicle? If it is limited in towing ability (say 1500 pounds), that will cause swing and sway. Even tho Compacts are light weight, the vehicle must be stable enough to make for a pleasant towing experience. A sway bar sometimes helps. A longer tongue helps with backing up but doesn't improve sway. You can purchase a 12" tow extension rather than modifying the tongue length.
Most tire/RV companies should be able to pack your bearings and inspect the frame for damage and rust out. The local Mom and Pop variety might be better, as they tend to be more honest and won't *add* to your expenses.
Frame modifications should be done by a frame and axle shop.(bumper, coupler, etc)
Give us more information and we'll be able to help more...
|
|
annbclay
Active Member
Posts: 108
Likes: 12
1961 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by annbclay on May 19, 2014 11:00:00 GMT -8
Thanks,
Re wag, I started a thread just on that question and have gotten some excellent feedback. I'm going to check all my details, such as tire pressure, weight distribution, etc. then try again on a test run, but it looks as though I may have to find another tow vehicle. I'm currently using a Nissan Juke. Rated in UK to 1250 no brakes 2000 with brakes.
Backing is no problem for me, I've pulled lots of trailers in the past, including a stock trailer full of 12 horses. Since this is vintage (and maybe not designed as well as current trailers) and I'm pulling with a small car I want to be sure I have all my ducks in a row.
My camper is a Shasta Compact, I'm very suspicious of the big RV dealers, how might I find a good Mom and Pop place? Are you referring to a general mechanic or a vintage camper mom & pop?
|
|
|
|
Post by bigbill on May 19, 2014 12:58:16 GMT -8
Might I suggest that you find a friend with a bigger tow vehicle such as a truck or van and have them tow the trailer after you check it out, then if it tows well you will know what the problem is if not you will have to look farther.
|
|
bmxovich
Active Member
Posts: 187 
Likes: 69
1952 Airfloat Skipper
Currently Offline
|
Post by bmxovich on May 19, 2014 20:08:35 GMT -8
Welcome Ann B. We typically tow my wife's compact with a full size pickup, no brainer. But, I have towed it and another compact I purchased with a 2009 VW Jetta. The longest trip was 650 mi total, nearly all freeway. Another trip 200 miles one way to bring home the 2nd compact. Also one camping trip fairly loaded around 150 mi. Although do-able, I have a lot of towing experience. I never drove or drive over 60 mph, as I don't believe these little things were built to withstand high speeds, regardless of the tow rig. Take plenty of time to ease up to speed, and most important, lots of room and time to slow down. I'm not saying keep the Juke, just that it's possible to enjoy the trailer a bit if you keep things light and slow. Ideally a more robust tow rig would be wise, but most people buy the little compact because it's lightweight. Then like us they tow it with a big ol ugly truck   |
|
yas
Active Member
Posts: 422
Likes: 162
'63 Shasta Airflyte
Currently Offline
|
Post by yas on May 20, 2014 6:09:26 GMT -8
I also want want to get a bumper put on her and an updated hitch that can be locked. b Ann, Your coupler can probably be locked. The lock hole just isn't where you expect it to be! Several of us have asked this question in the past. Here's a thread that shows two styles of lock holes on Shasta Compacts: vintagetrailertalk.freeforums.net/thread/1465/hitch-pin |
|
annbclay
Active Member
Posts: 108
Likes: 12
1961 Shasta Compact
Currently Offline
|
Post by annbclay on May 21, 2014 20:27:24 GMT -8
Might I suggest that you find a friend with a bigger tow vehicle such as a truck or van and have them tow the trailer after you check it out, then if it tows well you will know what the problem is if not you will have to look farther. Good idea Bill |
|
