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VACList DigestVACList-Digest Tuesday, October 22, 2002 Issue 463
Today's Topics:
1. Re: segments
2. Real Wally Rally
3. Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
4. Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
5. Re: Real Wally Rally
6. Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
7. Re: segments
8. Re: Antenna gears?
9. Re: Real Wally Rally
10. Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
11. Re: segments
12. Re: Antenna gears?
13. Re: spare parts
14. replacing panels
15. floor-seal
16. Re: segments
17. Re: Real Wally Rally
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message Number: 1
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 19:44:16 -0400
From: "chyde" <brownhyde@primelink1.net>
Subject: Re: segments
You might also try vintage race car restoration shops. The english wheel
was used to create those beautiful flowing curved bodies out of aluminum in
the 40's and 50's. Vintage racing of these vehicles is popular today and
they certainly still have issues with each other.
Colin Hyde
57 Sovereign of the Road
59 Ambassador International
----- Original Message -----
From: <goldens510@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
To: "Multiple recipients of VACList" <VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 6:30 PM
Subject: [VAC] Re: segments
> I second the suggestion to try an aircraft repair shop. I only had a
> straight aluminum side panel replaced, but the shop I went to had just
> finished replacing one of the small, curved sections above the rear window
> on an early 50's A/S.
>
> Amanda
> '68 Safari
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 2
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 18:17:35 -0700
From: "edward lewis" <eddielewis800@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: Real Wally Rally
Hi.
I'm signed up to go to the Rally In Santa Marina, Ca. this week. My only
problem is that I don't know where it is in Santa Marina. I've sent e-mails
and left phone messages and I'm affraid that Don and Joyce are in transit. I
called her work today and they said that she was on vacation. Some how I
missed out on the directions and I'm not feeling adventuresome enough to
drive from Encinitas to Santa Maria in search of the rally, so I'm hoping
that some one on the list can give give directions.
Thanks,
Ed
_________________________________________________________________
Choose an Internet access plan right for you -- try MSN!
http://resourcecenter.msn.com/access/plans/default.asp
------------------------------
Message Number: 3
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 20:18:48 -0500
From: Kevin D Allen <overlander64@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
In the past 20 years and three trailers, I have never had any bearing
problems but I think that may be changing. I picked up my =9278 Argosy
Minuet at Ace Fogdall RV on Saturday and had several unusual happenings
along the line. Each time I applied the brakes there was a distinct
banging (metallic) noise emanating from the trailer that was accompanied
by two sharp jerks. The first two times that this happened, I
attributed the problem to rust in the drums resulting from three weeks
of inactivity. The third time it happened (over 140 miles from Ace
Fogdall and about 65 miles from home), I became concerned and stopped to
check the temperature of the hubs - - slightly warm to the touch but not
hot. Decided to continue on home as I was already more than =BE of the
way there. I was tired and parked the trailer on its pad and didn=92t
look at it again until today. Now I notice staining on both Argosy
center caps on the wheels as well as some on the spider assembly of each
wheel - - it appears to be a grease/oil stain, but it is not wet to the
touch. It has only been about 1,000 miles since I had a reputable shop
repack the wheel bearings and inspect the brakes (not Ace Fogdall) - -
the shop that did the work has performed similar services for me many
times. I suspect that I am either having brake trouble (dragging shoe
or shoes) or possibly bearing trouble - - defective seals - - excessive
amount of grease?? - - I have trouble believing that both bearings would
fail almost simultaneously.
I am in a quandary as I am not mechanically inclined, and must have such
work done by professionals. The nearest professional that I know and
trust is almost 200 miles away (Ace Fogdall RV), and I was supposed to
deliver the trailer to Arlene Fowler for an interior refurbishment this
weekend. I am now concerned that a 360 + mile trip may be ill-advised?
I had hoped to make this trip over the upcoming weekend as it will be
three more weeks before I have another opportunity to take the trailer
south. Has anyone on the list had any experiences with the RV repair
shops in the Quad City area of Illinois or Iowa? Am I over-reacting and
borrowing trouble? I am debating whether to throw caution to the wind
and take to the road over the weekend - - stopping every 50 to 75 miles
to check the hub temperatures.
Any insights will be greatly appreciated!
Kevin
Kevin D. Allen
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban
1978 Argosy Minuet
1975 Cadillac Convertible (towcar in-training)
WBCCI/VAC #6359
------------------------------
Message Number: 4
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 18:56:00 -0600
From: "Tuna" <rctowns@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
My $.02, adjusted for inflation: Find a local horse trailer/boat
trailer/utility trailer place and have them pull the wheels and make the
necessary repairs.
The banging/jerking when braking is a bit troubling - is it possible
that the wire from the brake-light switch got mixed up with the brake
wire from the trailer brake controller?
Happy Trailering!
Tuna
Reno, NV
----- Original Message -----
From: Kevin D Allen
To: Multiple recipients of VACList
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 7:18 PM
Subject: [VAC] Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
In the past 20 years and three trailers, I have never had any bearing
problems but I think that may be changing. I picked up my '78 Argosy
Minuet at Ace Fogdall RV on Saturday and had several unusual happenings
along the line. Each time I applied the brakes there was a distinct
banging (metallic) noise emanating from the trailer that was accompanied
by two sharp jerks. The first two times that this happened, I
attributed the problem to rust in the drums resulting from three weeks
of inactivity. The third time it happened (over 140 miles from Ace
Fogdall and about 65 miles from home), I became concerned and stopped to
check the temperature of the hubs - - slightly warm to the touch but not
hot. Decided to continue on home as I was already more than =BE of the
way there. I was tired and parked the trailer on its pad and didn't
look at it again until today. Now I notice staining on both Argosy
center caps on the wheels as well as some on the spider assembly of each
wheel - - it appears to be a grease/oil stain, but it is not wet to the
touch. It has only been about 1,000 miles since I had a reputable shop
repack the wheel bearings and inspect the brakes (not Ace Fogdall) - -
the shop that did the work has performed similar services for me many
times. I suspect that I am either having brake trouble (dragging shoe
or shoes) or possibly bearing trouble - - defective seals - - excessive
amount of grease?? - - I have trouble believing that both bearings would
fail almost simultaneously.
I am in a quandary as I am not mechanically inclined, and must have
such work done by professionals. The nearest professional that I know
and trust is almost 200 miles away (Ace Fogdall RV), and I was supposed
to deliver the trailer to Arlene Fowler for an interior refurbishment
this weekend. I am now concerned that a 360 + mile trip may be
ill-advised? I had hoped to make this trip over the upcoming weekend
as it will be three more weeks before I have another opportunity to take
the trailer south. Has anyone on the list had any experiences with the
RV repair shops in the Quad City area of Illinois or Iowa? Am I
over-reacting and borrowing trouble? I am debating whether to throw
caution to the wind and take to the road over the weekend - - stopping
every 50 to 75 miles to check the hub temperatures.
Any insights will be greatly appreciated!
Kevin
Kevin D. Allen
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban
1978 Argosy Minuet
1975 Cadillac Convertible (towcar in-training)
WBCCI/VAC #6359
------------------------------
Message Number: 5
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 18:57:16 -0700
From: "Bob Hightower" <nk7m@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: Re: Real Wally Rally
I believe Santa Maria is on hiway 101 about 175 mi N of LA.
-----Original Message-----
From: VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net [mailto:VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net] On Behalf Of
edward lewis
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 6:18 PM
To: Multiple recipients of VACList
Subject: [VAC] Real Wally Rally
Hi.
I'm signed up to go to the Rally In Santa Marina, Ca. this week. My only
problem is that I don't know where it is in Santa Marina. I've sent
e-mails
and left phone messages and I'm affraid that Don and Joyce are in
transit. I
called her work today and they said that she was on vacation. Some how
I
missed out on the directions and I'm not feeling adventuresome enough to
drive from Encinitas to Santa Maria in search of the rally, so I'm
hoping
that some one on the list can give give directions.
Thanks,
Ed
_________________________________________________________________
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------------------------------
Message Number: 6
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 20:04:16 -0500
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
Jack it up one wheel (or more) at a time and see if there's a clunking
sound or clicks when you spin the wheel by hand. Have someone hit the
brake controller while the tow vehicle is connected and you have the
wheel spinning. There should be a clunk and a rapid stop. With the
brakes released, check for looseness in any direction but spinning, e.g.
in and out. Once a wheel bearing set gets loose from wear or a hard bump
with the races not fully seated, it can destroy both bearings rapidly
and a loose hub will make the brakes operate oddly. Brakes that need
adjustment can cause grabbing conditions. A friend on mine with a new
SOB wrecked several tires on a new fifth wheel camper two summers ago
because the excessively loose brake shoes locked the wheel and he
dragged the tires off the rim.
Gerald J.
--
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Message Number: 7
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 22:21:32 -0400
From: "Jim Stewart" <9stewart@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: segments
Have you tried P&S in Ohio? I don't have their number handy, but could round
it up. They polish the Airstreams both new and old and make repairs.
Jim
'61 Bambi
'63 Avion T-20
----- Original Message -----
From: "Chris Herring" <cherring@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
To: "Multiple recipients of VACList" <VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 5:19 PM
Subject: [VAC] segments
> Hello VAC,
>
> I posted a message a few weeks ago regarding some segments that I am
> searching for to fix my '61. Thanks to all of the folks that responded. So
> far I haven't been able to locate what I need and have broadened my search
> for perhaps a damaged Airstream that I can buy for parts. I need the rear
> panels above the window on the curb side. So, if you know of a '58-63 that
> is available for parts I would love to hear about it.
>
> I would also be willing to have these pieces made if I can locate a
> craftsman that can do this. I'm guessing that an English wheel is the
needed
> tool.
>
> Any info would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Chris
>
>
>
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a daily Digest format, please go to
> http://airstream.net/vaclist/listoffice.html
>
> When replying to a message, please delete all unnecessary original text
>
>
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 8
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 21:34:39 -0500
From: "Charlie Gunkel" <cmgunkel@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Antenna gears?
Dave,
Dave,
I have a 77 sovereign also and have already replaced the gears---I called
the number in the original Braun (spelling?) brochure and got to the new
company. New assembly was less than $20.00. I don't have the number in
front of me but can get it.Give me a call if you have any problems..
Charlie Gunkel
77 Sovereign
Home 918-496-1303
Office 918-492-3034
----- Original Message -----
From: "David W. Lowrey" <dave_lowrey@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
To: "Multiple recipients of VACList" <VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 8:38 AM
Subject: [VAC] Antenna gears?
> The worm gear that raises the antenna on my '77 Sovereign gave up the
ghost
> last weekend. This is the one that is on the crank handle. The one it
> engages with, that raises the antenna, doesnt look too hot either.
>
> I understand that replacement kits are available? If so, where?
>
> I have no idea who the manufacturer or model number are. It's the same
> original antenna thats on all the other trailers around the same age.
>
> Dave
>
> _________________________________________________________________
> Dave & Ann Lowrey - dave_lowrey@xxxxxxxxxx.com
>
> WBCCI: 5074
>
> 1977 31' Sovereign International (center bath)
> Cincinnati, Ohio
>
>
>
>
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a daily Digest format, please go to
> http://airstream.net/vaclist/listoffice.html
>
> When replying to a message, please delete all unnecessary original text
>
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 9
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 19:41:29 -0700
From: Brad Norgaard <stream2699@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Real Wally Rally
Ed,
The Real Wally Rally in Santa Maria is being held at the fairgrounds. Off
the 101, take the Stowell exit and head west. The fairgrounds are located on
the corner of Stowell and South Thornburg Streets. Enter the fairgrounds
through gate "7" off of Thornburg. Watch the skies for the Real Wally
balloons to locate Don and Joyce. See you there. When will you be arriving?
Brad Norgaard
Phoenix
'59 Trade Wind Twin
VAC #2699, TCT
> I'm signed up to go to the Rally In Santa Marina, Ca. this week. My only
> problem is that I don't know where it is in Santa Marina. I've sent e-mails
> and left phone messages and I'm affraid that Don and Joyce are in transit. I
> called her work today and they said that she was on vacation. Some how I
> missed out on the directions and I'm not feeling adventuresome enough to
> drive from Encinitas to Santa Maria in search of the rally, so I'm hoping
> that some one on the list can give give directions.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ed
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 10
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 21:40:14 -0500
From: Kevin D Allen <overlander64@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
Thanks for the input Dr. Johnson!
I am convinced. I am going to check with the independent mechanic who
diagnosed the fuel delivery problems with my Cadillac tow vehicle and
see if he will consider taking on the Argosy problem or might recommend
someone who will - - his shop is only six blocks from my driveway. I am
convinced that something isn't right - - checked my notes and realized
that the mechanic that did the bearing repack and brake inspection was
not the usual running gear specialist who normally services the running
gear on my trailers as he was on medical leave following back surgery -
- maybe the substitute didn't quite get everything back the way it
belonged.
Thanks for the suggestions!
Kevin
Kevin D. Allen
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban
1978 Argosy Minuet
1975 Cadillac Convertible (towcar in-training)
WBCCI/VAC #6359
-----Original Message-----
From: VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net [mailto:VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net] On Behalf Of
Dr Gerald N Johnson electrical engineer
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 7:04 PM
To: Multiple recipients of VACList
Subject: [VAC] Re: Does This Sound Like Bearing Trouble?
Jack it up one wheel (or more) at a time and see if there's a clunking
sound or clicks when you spin the wheel by hand. Have someone hit the
brake controller while the tow vehicle is connected and you have the
wheel spinning. There should be a clunk and a rapid stop. With the
brakes released, check for looseness in any direction but spinning, e.g.
in and out. Once a wheel bearing set gets loose from wear or a hard bump
with the races not fully seated, it can destroy both bearings rapidly
and a loose hub will make the brakes operate oddly. Brakes that need
adjustment can cause grabbing conditions. A friend on mine with a new
SOB wrecked several tires on a new fifth wheel camper two summers ago
because the excessively loose brake shoes locked the wheel and he
dragged the tires off the rim.
Gerald J.
--
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Message Number: 11
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 22:51:48 -0400
From: "Tom" <tmeeker@xxxxxxxxxx.rr.com>
Subject: Re: segments
> I would also be willing to have these pieces made if I can locate a
> craftsman that can do this. I'm guessing that an English wheel is the
needed
> tool.
>
> Chris
Chris,
If you can find a place that makes aircraft skin pieces out of aluminum that
might be your best bet. There you will be able to get 'clad' aluminum like
was used on your old Airstream unit.
I am not familiar with "an English wheel" but I do know about
shrinker-stretcher machines, etc. There are also roller machines for sheet
metal used for contouring metal. If you were trying to make *cupped* curved
pieces then I would be looking into a shop that had both the
shrinker-stretcher and roller machines and those machines with metal wheels.
Also, realize that to do what you need, the metal will have to be workable,
or malleable I think is the word. This most likely would call for 'clad'
soft aluminum, can't remember the correct numbers off hand, T-100 or zero
something or other. The metal used to do this would not be hardened, it
would be in a very soft state so it could be worked.
After working the metal to get these needed shapes the metal would have to
be heated and annealed so it would then be useable.
Having these pieces custom made would cost you both for time, labor and
materials and usage of the equipment unless it's included in the materials
to begin with. This can be done certainly but is it a cost you would be
willing to pay? To begin your project you first need to supply the shop who
might do this for you with pictures and measurements that are easily
understood. If I were you I'd get several estimates and I would ask for
references or to be able to see their other custom jobs they've done for
others. It goes without question that you'd also want to see if their
previous customers are happy with the results and if they'd use them again
for similar work.
Tom
WBCCI 5303
------------------------------
Message Number: 12
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 21:04:30 -0600
From: Charlie/Betty Burke <cbburke@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Antenna gears?
Dave,
The Braund Skyliner gearset is readily available through most RV parts sources.
The kit, with illustrated directions generally runs $7-9. Check your local
resources before going out of town. The antenna is not unique to Airstream as
they were the first RV style antenna in the industry.
Charlie
"David W. Lowrey" wrote:
> The worm gear that raises the antenna on my '77 Sovereign gave up the ghost
> last weekend. This is the one that is on the crank handle. The one it
> engages with, that raises the antenna, doesnt look too hot either.
>
> I understand that replacement kits are available? If so, where?
>
> I have no idea who the manufacturer or model number are. It's the same
> original antenna thats on all the other trailers around the same age.
>
> Dave
>
> _________________________________________________________________
> Dave & Ann Lowrey - dave_lowrey@xxxxxxxxxx.com
>
> WBCCI: 5074
>
> 1977 31' Sovereign International (center bath)
> Cincinnati, Ohio
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a daily Digest format, please go to
> http://airstream.net/vaclist/listoffice.html
>
> When replying to a message, please delete all unnecessary original text
>
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 13
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 23:47:56 -0400
From: "Tom" <tmeeker@xxxxxxxxxx.rr.com>
Subject: Re: spare parts
From: "Todd McDonald" <tod47d@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: spare parts
--Your concern is appreciated -tod47d
Oh, yeah, I bet it is.
Tom
------------------------------
Message Number: 14
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 22:42:00 -0700
From: "Richard McFarland" <estatewagons@xxxxxxxxxx.att.net>
Subject: replacing panels
Tuna - Kent White sounds inspiring. His website certainly is. Thanks for
letting us know about him.
RL McFarland
ps...I don't usually list this one under vintage tow cars...but I've got a
'51 Jeepster...it has it's original 4 cylinder/overdrive transmission - so
it's sedate but it's sweet.
> ------------------------------
>
> Message Number: 12
> Date: Mon, 21 Oct 2002 14:59:07 -0600
> From: "Tuna" <rctowns@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
> Subject: Re: segments
>
> I'm going to have to re-work/replace some panels on the Trailwind at some
> point, top rear corner... compound curves, etc... someone put me onto this
> guy, Kent White. His website:
> http://www.tinmantech.com/html/kent_white.html
>
>
> Tuna
> Reno, NV
>
>
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 15
Date: Tue, 22 Oct 2002 03:32:23 -0500
From: "Todd McDonald" <tod47d@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: floor-seal
I found a quart of old sherwin williams FLOOR-SEAL (a penetrating sealer
that toughens the wood for heavy duty traffic) at our local paint
recycler,free. would this be adequate or should I invest in watco or some
other marine grade sealant for wood under bath floor? ingredients on foor
seal are varnish-100% non volatile - tung,linseed,,phenolic,ester gum-36%,
Solatile mineral spirits 64%. Has technology gotten better in this
department? or is this pretty good? thanks tod47d
_________________________________________________________________
Broadband? Dial-up? Get reliable MSN Internet Access.
http://resourcecenter.msn.com/access/plans/default.asp
------------------------------
Message Number: 16
Date: Tue, 22 Oct 2002 10:50:17 -0400
From: "Phil Renner" <phil.renner@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: segments
Chris
I just read an auction on ebay for shock absorbers and in the description
the seller mentions that he is a retiring Airstream dealer and also has
"hard to find" body segments (I assume for Airstreams, not himself :>)
Maybe???
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1773696022
Phil Renner
63' Overlander
Guilford, CT
----- Original Message -----
From: "Chris Herring" <cherring@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
To: "Multiple recipients of VACList" <VACList@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Sent: Monday, October 21, 2002 5:19 PM
Subject: [VAC] segments
> Hello VAC,
>
> I posted a message a few weeks ago regarding some segments that I am
> searching for to fix my '61. Thanks to all of the folks that responded. So
> far I haven't been able to locate what I need and have broadened my search
> for perhaps a damaged Airstream that I can buy for parts. I need the rear
> panels above the window on the curb side. So, if you know of a '58-63 that
> is available for parts I would love to hear about it.
>
> I would also be willing to have these pieces made if I can locate a
> craftsman that can do this. I'm guessing that an English wheel is the
needed
> tool.
>
> Any info would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Chris
>
>
>
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a daily Digest format, please go to
> http://airstream.net/vaclist/listoffice.html
>
> When replying to a message, please delete all unnecessary original text
>
>
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 17
Date: Tue, 22 Oct 2002 12:15:08 -0700
From: "My Airstream" <myairstream@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: Real Wally Rally
When does the rally begin and end. I can't bring my Safari because I
haven't replaced my puller BUT my grandsons birthday is Sunday in the San
Fernando Valley. Might like to cruise north just to meet some of the folks.
Bob Kiger http://cruiserbob.com
66 Airstream Safari
Mira Mar Mobile Park
Oceanside, CA
----- Original Message -----
From: "edward lewis" <eddielewis800@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: [VAC] Real Wally Rally
> I'm signed up to go to the Rally In Santa Marina, Ca. this week. My only
> problem is that I don't know where it is in Santa Marina. I've sent
e-mails
> and left phone messages and I'm affraid that Don and Joyce are in transit.
I
> called her work today and they said that she was on vacation. Some how I
> missed out on the directions and I'm not feeling adventuresome enough to
> drive from Encinitas to Santa Maria in search of the rally, so I'm hoping
> that some one on the list can give give directions.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ed
------------------------------
End of VACList-Digest #463
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