Sunday, July 27, 2014

Getting the A-frame in A+ shape

My brother-in-law is working on getting the A-frame in better shape.  He didn't like the way the hitch looked bent and as he's been grinding off the pieces, it appears that it was quite a welding mish-mash.  It will be nice to have it cleaned up and welded properly.  In these before and after photos, the coupler hasn't been welded on yet, but it fits perfectly.
Grinded off pieces & parts--BEFORE

The new shiny coupler sitting on the frame--AFTER

Friday, July 11, 2014

Window work, part 1

Thanks to the help of my good friend, Al, we are starting the process of replacing the weatherstrip gasket of the windows.  I had replaced the glazing back in the winter....but this job is quite a bit more involved.  The gaskets are actually riveted in behind the window frame.  Because these gaskets are several decades old, they are brittle, cracked, and no longer serve its original purpose. 
While I had initially thought that maybe this was a job better handled by the Airstream folk, Al felt confident that we could tackle it together.  And that we did.  Using the rivet removal tool from Vintage Trailer Supply (which I had ordered a few weeks ago....and he had one as well), we were able to tag team two windows and get them removed.  Unfortunately the gasket I need is out of stock, but we're at least making progress!  It's nice to have friends to help me with this project.
Rivet Removal Tool--aka, the silencer :)

Drilled out buck rivets, holding in the old gasket

Boom.  *drops mic*

Monday, July 7, 2014

Gettin' by with a little help from my friends

It's been a while since I've posted on the blog....but I have good news!  With the help of some dear friends, there's another section of floor in the trailer.  Not only that, but another friend has agreed to help me with the windows, plumbing & wiring.  I am so thankful for those that have agreed to take this walk with me.  I have a full heart & a wealth of gratitude for them!
My buddy stakes claim to the section he installed :)