HOTRODPRIMER
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1957 Shasta
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Post by HOTRODPRIMER on Mar 15, 2014 5:23:05 GMT -8
I did a inspection of our camper and found where a couple of welds are broken on the frame and I want to remove the shell because I fear there may be more and repair and sandblast the frame,then replace the entire rotten floor.
I haven't seen much on this type of repair and I'm sure there will be problems with this approach but If I intend to repair the frame I believe it has to be done,,any tips or pointers from you guys & gals that have been there done that I would appropriate your input,,again I'm new to all this. Danny
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Post by universalexports on Mar 15, 2014 6:46:39 GMT -8
I havent been that far into one, but I would say take lots of pics, measurements and notes, record them before you take anything apart so you know how it goes back together.
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Hamlet
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Post by Hamlet on Mar 15, 2014 9:53:49 GMT -8
When you say you want to remove the "shell", are you referring to taking the entire camper off the metal chassis? I remember one person trying to do something like that several years back. Don't remember the outcome. The hard thing about these old guys and gals is that every piece helps support every other piece. It's not like moving a house off its foundation, especially if you are planning to replace the floor. They are plenty sturdy when they are all put together, which is why rotted wood affects them so severely.
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HOTRODPRIMER
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1957 Shasta
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Post by HOTRODPRIMER on Mar 15, 2014 12:05:39 GMT -8
When you say you want to remove the "shell", are you referring to taking the entire camper off the metal chassis? I remember one person trying to do something like that several years back. Don't remember the outcome. The hard thing about these old guys and gals is that every piece helps support every other piece. It's not like moving a house off its foundation, especially if you are planning to replace the floor. They are plenty sturdy when they are all put together, which is why rotted wood affects them so severely. Yes,take it completely apart,My initial thoughts are that I have a lot of 3/4" metal tubing that I will attach to the sides to keep them intact and cross brace everything to keep it as square as possible,this will take a little time because in it's present condition,,NOTHING IS SQUARE!  Danny |
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John Palmer
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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 Mar 15, 2014 12:18:13 GMT -8
HRP, before you pull it all apart, check to make sure how far to the rear the last frame cross member is located. For example, the steel on some trailers stopped at the rear shackles (early Aljoa's). I like to install "hidden" drop down corner stabilizers, and a receiver for a removable bicycle rack. As you would expect, it's easy to repair or add things when you have it stripped down. Another thing is to check, or add an extra cross member for the side step, it really makes a big difference when you step on a solidly mounted step.
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HOTRODPRIMER
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1957 Shasta
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Post by HOTRODPRIMER on Mar 15, 2014 12:20:56 GMT -8
HRP, before you pull it all apart, check to make sure how far to the rear the last frame cross member is located. For example, the steel on some trailers stopped at the rear shackles (early Aljoa's). I like to install "hidden" drop down corner stabilizers, and a receiver for a removable bicycle rack. As you would expect, it's easy to repair or add things when you have it stripped down. Another thing is to check, or add an extra cross member for the side step, it really makes a big difference when you step on a solidly mounted step. Thank you John,all good advice that I will take into consideration. Danny |
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Danny