toolietop
New Member
Posts: 2
1971 Aristocrat Lo-liner
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Post by toolietop on Oct 20, 2020 18:02:08 GMT -8
Hi...new member here. I just bought a 1971 Aristocrat Lo-liner this past weekend. I have been researching and learning all I can about vintage trailers and finally found one that 1- seems to be in very decent condition (nearly all original) 2- fair price 3-close enough to go inspect, buy and trailer home
SHORT STORY: I would greatly appreciate a recommendation for someone near Sarasota, Florida with experience removing the skin and repairing wood in vintage trailers.
LONG version: While it does appear to be in very good shape, I can also see that it needs some repairs. The most concerning one is wood rot in the corners and bottom of walls ( under the trailer). The floors seems solid, walls and inside seems solid, with exception of a few little spots in corners and behind toilet. I understand that only way to fix is to "peel the skin". I may be able to manage this part, but will need help with the wood work and would really love someone to help me with the project, being my first time. I know at the very least I will need to remove all the edging, windows, and door to reseal with butyl/RV putty.
Anyone know someone I could contact? I am open to a mentor helper or professional.
THANK YOU!!
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John Palmer
Senior Member
Hi, From a vintage trailer guy located in Santa Ana, CA. It's good to see lots of activity here.
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Post by John Palmer on Oct 20, 2020 18:27:23 GMT -8
Heintz Design in Panama City, FL. Contact Tim Heintz
Professional builder, very knowledgeable resource in the trailer hobby. Maybe he could suggest some closer?
John
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Post by vikx on Oct 20, 2020 19:43:21 GMT -8
Research costs and abilities before buying a trailer. If you don't want to do/need help with wood rot repairs, it may be very difficult to find a knowledgeable person. Trailers are not houses, general handypeople probably won't know how to do trailer repairs.
I would guess most pros would charge anywhere from 5K to 10K for decent repairs. It sounds like the trailer will need to have extensive repairs and be on the higher end cost wise.
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John Palmer
Senior Member
Hi, From a vintage trailer guy located in Santa Ana, CA. It's good to see lots of activity here.
Posts: 1,625
Likes: 575
Currently Offline
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Post by John Palmer on Oct 20, 2020 20:50:03 GMT -8
We have no idea what you paid for the trailer.
You need to be aware, that the cost to repair any amount of wood rot under the skins could easily exceed what you paid for the trailer, just my guess. Experienced builders will confirm that no repairs in the floor area, lower walls, or skirt boards are simple, fast, easy, or cheap to have someone repair. Note, all of these areas are common rot damage areas in a fifty year old stick and tin construction trailer.
John
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toolietop
New Member
Posts: 2
1971 Aristocrat Lo-liner
Currently Offline
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Post by toolietop on Oct 21, 2020 12:11:20 GMT -8
Thank you John for your thoughts. I have reached out to the "regional professionals" and will hopefully find someone a little closer to home as I would like to be involved in the repairs and process (both for learning and because I like these sorts of projects). Like I said in my OP..It is in very good condition, just hoping to take it to the next level and clean up a few old problems. Thanks again to anyone who has contacts or leads for me.
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