[VAC] Re: proud new owner questions

[RJ & Krista <radiodial@xxxxxxxx>]

Hi Betsy,
For a take on polishing, plus links to 4 other polishing sites, check out:
http://www.VintageAirstream.com/rr_polish1.html

As for painting the insides, here is a popular opinion (but just one
option), and is based on my observations of looking at literally
hundreds of Airstreams now over the last couple of years.
There is a reason Wally painted the insides of his trailers with
earthtone Zolatone's when it first came out in 1952, and from then
forward through the vintage years (and why it's still made).  The stuff
is tough, easy to clean, and easy on the eye.

I've seen so many repaint jobs over it that look BAD - some from the
start (wrong paint or application and prep), to ones that get there
quickly or over time from moisture and scuff damage.  Unless you are
spraying on an enamel and have thoroughly prepped the surface, you will
suffer bruise spots and localized or wholesale peeling.  If seen a
couple recently while shooting some archive pictures where the stuff was
coming off in big patches - and the owners swore they prepped the
surface and used acrylic paints.

So what am I saying?  Make sure you really need to repaint - this isn't
like the dining room where you can paint a new coat on every 3 years. 
If you must repaint due to prior damage, spend a huge amount of time
prepping/cleaning the surface, masking or removing cabinetry, and spray
on an oil based enamel.  (Don't use white - it gets grimy looking fast).
 Auto body shops will do it for about $400 if you strip out all the
excess fixtures & doodads. Check out the new Zolatone colors while
you're at it:  http://zolatoneaim.com

Just trying to save you from a lot of heartache, and I'm sure others
with differing opinions will chime in...
:>)
Later,
RJ