For many years I was a member of CORSA, the Corvair Society of America.
Most of the Ultra Vans produced used Corvair running gear, dash panels,
etc. There is a CORSA sub-group devoted to Ultra Vans, and there are some
very beautiful restorations. Every year there is a CORSA International
Convention, similar to the Airstream rally, and there are always several
Ultra Vans. You can probably find info on Ultra Vans at the CORSA web
site. I don't know the address off-hand, but it should be easy to find
by searching for CORSA, Corvair Society of America, etc. By the way,
besides my '55 Bubble that Jim Weston is currently polishing for me, I
have have a real nice 64 Corvair Monza Convertible. Any other Corvair/Airstream
folks
out there?
John Brunken
-----Original Message-----
From: Patrick
Ewing <47airstream-ewing@pioneernet.net>
To: airstream@airstream.net
Date: Sunday, January 03, 1999 11:56 AM
Subject: Re: [airstream] ULTRA VAN
Jim,I just happen to have some info on the "Ultra Van" in my files.
These interesting small motorhomes were made by Ultra Inc. in Hutchinson, Kansas. They are completely self contained, have a low center of gravity, and are to be treated as pasenger cars as far as "driving one around."
THERE IS NO CHASSIS!! At first this may come as a shock, but when you
understand the construction, you see the logic. As in the design of an airplane, boxcar or transport trailer the sidewall is relatively rigid. So much so that a frame is useless. Since it is so flexible that a frame bends slightly under its own weight, the sidewalls actually would have to hold it straight. This would require that the sidewalls would have to be built stronger to carry a frame if used.We previously mentioned that we got equal strength with less than one-third the weight using aluminum versus steel. But the shape or design is what gives the shell or body added strength. The air frame engineer would refer to this as "monocoque" construction. This means it is a one piece unit with an ovate shape, patterned after the fuselage of an airplane. There are a series of stamped aluminum bulkheads going
around inside the shell giving added strength. Remember the Douglas DC-3 and its durability?There are many commercial adaptations for use of the Ultra Van. It can be used as a Field office of a showroom or on construction projects. Many salesmen find it ideal for traveling. It saves them time and money. Carrying samples gives added impact, for such a unit is novel enough to attract extra attention.
As far as we have been able to learn the ULTRA VAN has more horsepower per pound of weight than any other motorhome. You can cruise and take hills at your customary driving speed. You get light passenger car gas mileage, and it handles and rides like a car.
In considering buying an ULTRA VAN keep in mind that the first unit was built as something to live in and enjoy. As new products became available and new ideas presented themselves, improvements have been made. Practical livability is always foremost, rather than just building something to sell.
Copyright 1968 by Ultra Inc.
These are some of the lines from a little sales blurp that I have a photo copy of. There is no detailed info on the mechanics of the unit, or on the years manufactured.
In the town where I live there is an Ultra Van parked on the side of someone's driveway. It looks sad, forlorn and beat. I've wondered about stopping in and checking it out sometime in the future. All I need is another project!! That I don't want at this time. My next project will be my '47 Airstream, I hope!!
Pat
jbd wrote:
Does anyone know anything about the 'Ultra Van' that's pictured on the Tin Can Tourist website?...The one pictured is a '68 model....Were these made by Airstream?...During which years?...Were there different
lengths?....Thanks,JIM DUNN