benrogers
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Post by benrogers on Jun 9, 2016 9:05:02 GMT -8
For arguments sake, let's say I did move the closets like I've described and also added a side to side shelf in the back (above the bed) that's fastened to the side walls.
IF I added three sets of 1x6 studs (one in front of the door and two sets spaced behind the door) along with 1x6 roof joists that were all tied into the existing framework, do you think that would compensate for the movement of the closets?
I'd tie the new joists and studs together using 90 degree plates and tie those structures into the new framing using 1x2 or 1x3 with Kreg Joints?
Thoughts?
Ben
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mobiltec
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Post by mobiltec on Jun 9, 2016 10:19:33 GMT -8
It's the box which is a cabinet that when fastened to the two walls in the corner it takes care of sway issues. Stronger framing doesn't help this issue. It just adds weight to the trailer. Again it's the total design concept for each trailer that holds everything together in a way that it won't sway one way or the other that keeps them intact. Once you remove any part of the total concept you have removed a certain amount of structural integrity and if you are not an engineer there is really no other way to compensate for what you removed. I'm no engineer but I do understand the concept.
There are no laws in place at this time regarding how a trailer may be changed and many people are just completely gutting these things and changing the floor plan and all the cabinets. At some point in time the entire trailer will collapse on the highway causing a big accident. It's already happening and I just heard about another one last week that was lost on the highway after a rally.
Now this does not in any way mean for sure that you will have the same problem. It depends on a lot of things. Mostly what you do to mitigate the problems caused by removing any one or two cabinets. All the framing in these trailers really do is create air space between the inner paneling and the outer metal skin. The rest of the structural integrity is in the way the entire trailer is put together. It's a lot like the concept of the egg and how strong the shell is. It's a very strong thing when outside forces are affecting it. But when a tiny little chick pokes at it from the inside it's not so strong any longer. And if you breach any part of that egg from the outside, the structural integrity of the entire egg is affected.
That's about the best I can explain this. Now it's up to you what you want to do. Don't take my word for it. I've never restored or rebuilt a Shasta Compact. Let's see how others who have had experience with this trailer are thinking.
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benrogers
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Post by benrogers on Jun 9, 2016 16:07:19 GMT -8
Mobiltec, you're right. Changing the floor plan isn't going to help anything. I think utilizing the storage better is the right answer. I think the plan now is to begin work here in a month or so (got to wrap up some other stuff first). This is going to be a full rebuild probably over the next few years. Skins off, structure repair, replacing paneling and rebuilding the closets and cabinets (maintaining the footprint).
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benrogers
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Post by benrogers on Jun 9, 2016 16:29:30 GMT -8
General question....how thick are the side wall panels?
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Post by danrhodes on Jun 9, 2016 18:38:58 GMT -8
General question....how thick are the side wall panels? Usually 1/8 - 1/4... They provide sheer strength to the wall assembly.
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benrogers
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Post by benrogers on Jun 10, 2016 4:04:19 GMT -8
So if I've got this right for a full tear down (to the frame) then I need to get the skins off and remove everything from inside then take the frame off?
We plan on doing this two sides at a time because of space. Passenger side and back then driver side and front.
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Hamlet
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Post by Hamlet on Jun 10, 2016 8:42:29 GMT -8
First, remove the skins from the areas you will replace first, support the remainder of the structure so you don't have it falling down on you. After you complete each area, you can put the skins back on, but you don't have to do the final until you're done with repairs. Also know that over time, especially if there is rot, the skin may have become a little disfigured in areas. Most folks don't have much trouble with making it work, it just takes a little finessing.
And since it sounds as though you are going to do this the safest way, take lots of notes and pictures, don't throw anything away until you are completely done with it, and as you take it apart, notice how it's put together. Vintage rravel trailers ar one of the best examples of something that is more than equal to the "sum of its parts'. When you finish you will have sometng that you can use for a long time and will know enough about to fix any issues that come up. Congrats!
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mobiltec
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Post by mobiltec on Jun 10, 2016 12:58:50 GMT -8
The pages on this forum are filled with all the info you will ever need. All you have to do is research these pages. The other thing you can do is visit my website which has over 400 videos showing everything in detail.
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