Jeffrey - while the List is getting back up to speed with it's new format and
provider issues etc (yes - thanks Tom for what so many of us have no clue is
involved computer/internet wise) - I'll offer some thoughts (understand that
I've not tackled the floor issue...so my thoughts are theory based only).
I'm a big fan of all the modern plywood products available these days - especially
those formatted for the marine/boat market (that is where I've have rebuild wood
experience). Great selection of wood materials used and great durability moisture-wise.
Airstream did use an aluminum style floor material for awhile (at least in the
Argosy line) (and my guess is that even a few Airstreams might have been tried since
Airstream has always had a history of "never say never" when it comes to what they
used when-where-and why) (also there are always those "custom" models out there that
no one ever knows about until a current owner let's us know it/they exist)
The aluminum floor they used was a sandwich design - with an insulating/cushioning
core. We've heard on the list from those that like their aluminum core floors and
from those that don't and from those that do "but" find them a bit of a problem when
chosing a replacement floor covering (I think they have rivet heads to deal with if
my memory remembers)
I would not want to use aluminum plate for several reasons.
I would think you'd have height issues with the difference in thickness versus the old
plywood - and that at some point it would be a headache unless you plan to pull the shell
off and completly replace the flooring out to the perimeter.
I would not want to use the aluminum plate as it will "oil can" (make noise via flexing)
unless you properly brace it underneath. Plywood will be much more forgiving in spanning
distances - aluminum with no structure to it (unlike the aluminum core product used in the
Argosy) when used in a perfectly flat location will want to move (oil can).
I would not want to use the aluminum plate as it will be noisy to walk on unless well
padded by the flooring material you put on it. Speaking of that - unless properly braced
beneath - if you put in a hard floor covering over it....that could be a wear problem as
there will bound to be shifting issues between the aluminum and the hard flooring when walked
on and when towing.
If you like the look of diamond plating - then research the vinyl/linoleum (and no doubt other
rubber like materials) flooring market. There's an amazing variety of new look and retro
look material designs to chose from and they'd all be better in the long run (I think) to use
and live with. You'll find designs out there that aren't just one-dimensional - you'll find
them that offer the raised diamond and raised dot styles.
For example - Pirelli is famous for it's raised dot (circle) flooring products. If you
research through car magazines you'll no doubt find a product with the diamond design that
is meant for a hard wear zone like a garage - that would probably adapt well to a trailer and
you'll have a choice of colors.
Just a few thoughts - and when the list is back up to speed and the vacationers get back home
I'm sure you'll get some more specific input.
RL McFarland
'57 Flying Cloud
'77 SS Continental
'39 Special Mystery
----- Original Message -----
>
> Jeffrey,
> I have seen your message and just wanted you to know I don't know and don't
> think question is stupid. My thoughts are that the material is strong,
> desirable, probably better with the diamonds not there or turned down, and
> horribly expensive.
> - -Eddie- Houston, TX