Re: [VAL] Replacement chassis

[Charlie/Betty Burke <cbburke@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

As the serial number indicates Airstream considered your coach a 1978 
model (4th digit) however the build date is right at the model 
changeover and they may have simply run out of the old scheme paint and 
started using the new scheme. It's happened before and since.
The frame under your coach, and most of ours, is a conventional ladder 
frame with an A front end. Don't know what European manufacturers put 
under their caravan's but I would wager the basics would not be unheard 
of  to a chassis builder in the UK. Likely the Argosy frame is heavier 
rated. Thicker steel and larger framed.

Doing a frame off is a major deal. Bud Cooper was one of the first to 
document such a project but several have done it as well. The ladder 
frame has a series of outriggers welded along each side. With in the 
body are several pieces of floor rail. This rail encircles nearly the 
entire perimeter of the coach with two large bowed pieces one on each 
end. Several straight pieces alone the side complete the rail. This rail 
is an aluminum extrusion that has a key slot for the floor decking and 
vertical extensions that the outside and inside skin are riveted to. 
During assembly the chassis is built up with the flooring and the floor 
rail is mounted and anchored at each outrigger and to the ladder frame 
crossovers both front and rear. Once the outer shell is mounted to the 
frame rail interior build up begins. After insulation, wiring, windows 
etc. are added the interior skin is attached to the floor rail 
effectively sealing the anchor points away from easy access.
In order to separate body and ladder frame it is necessary to access 
each anchor point and separate it. This will require clear access to the 
wall to floor joints. Removal of much of the interior is necessary to do 
this. Once separated it is possible to then lift the body off the 
floor/chassis. Don't forget the toilet is also anchored through the 
floor to a tank below.

Charlie

PS It's a whole lot easier to describe than do!