[VAC] Re: Alterations

[RJ.Dial@xxxxxxx]

My answer may surprise many.

In my capacity, I get to see a very large number of restorations and 
customizations.  Many of you know my feelings about trying to make a 
vintage Airstream into something it isn't - it usually results in 
something that only it's owner could love....

Here's the surprising part, if done correctly, I feel modifications can 
be done that will improve the functionality and value at the same time. 
In my archive photo section there are 7 Caravanners, and each had a 
different interior layout.  Due to the degree of customization 
available back then, there is no fixed "standard" interior. In 
researching the Flying Clouds from 1955 to 1962, I found 5 very 
distinct original layouts, with 100's of more subtle differences.

What do I recommend?  Any changes you make, do it in the style of the 
trailer and era, using the same materials and methods of construction, 
re-using as many of the original fixtures and fittings as possible.  

For example, the bathroom on the Caravanner is usually in the aft 
curbside cabinetry.  Shower options in that era were usually raised 
galvanized floor pans supported by the black water tank.  The toilet 
sat in the shower pan to one side, and the walls were either painted 
Masonite walls or thin stainless steel sheet.  I've even seen aluminum 
(badly corroded, though).

When you rebuild the bathroom, you will know you've succeeded if it 
looks like it was there from the beginning.  This is not the place for 
Corian, fancy wallpaper or new parts from Home Depot. Save all that for 
trailers that are already gutted. You want to see metal fittings, 
chrome & porcelain fixtures and varnished birch plywood in thicknesses 
and cut like the adjoining cabinets.  Think it can't be done?  Guys are 
doing it every day. 

Do your research of want you want to accomplish, look at other trailers 
with the features you want, gather your materials, develop a plan, and 
go for it.  My one big caution.  Do not proceed until you are confidant 
that you will be able to successfully finish.  Once you start removing, 
you are removing from the pool another trailer that a future Airstream 
lover could restore....

Best of luck,
RJ
VintageAirstream.com