Rob,
First, don't cry in front of your daughter. (Go somewhere else)
Second, you're probably not going camping this summer. Yes, you've got into a bigger mess than you ever could have imagined. (I speak as one who has replaced two rear floor sections, one in a '72 Overlander, the other in a '73 Sovereign).
Third, don't kid yourself....your frame is probably pretty rusty and in need of restoration and probably repair. 1000 hours may not be too much of an exaggeration. (I wouldn't worry about axles at this point.)
All that being said....you can complete the task if you really want to. Don't kick yourself...many have made the same mistake. I paid $4500 for the Overlander (all original equip working except new Coleman A/C), found rear floor rot/separation month later and eventually replaced all equip (fridge, water heater, furnace, stovetop) as they failed. If you stop now, you might be able to get your money back, but if you continue, plan on another $2K-$3K, not including axles, to complete the job (assuming you do all repairs yourself)
I completely restored the Overlander to very good condition but with 7 children, it just wasn't big enough. I now have a '31 Sovereign center bath which I've started repairs on, but have been stopped for a while now, as I focused on selling Overlander and boat repairs. I'll get back to it eventually (I hope).
I reallly would like to go camping again someday, and Airstreams are special (they tow great and are very well built), but it's a long way from here to there.
I'm currently helping another gentleman (technical advisor, welding) restore a '72 Overlander and would be happy to assist if you decide to tackle this project. I'd be happy do discuss the pros and cons of continuing, if need be. (I can see both sides of the coin, believe me.) (706-296-5682)
Here are my
pics. It's a little confusing sorting them out as all of the first 5 pages are of the Overlander, than the Sovereign, and then some more of the Overlander.
I'm just up the road on the other side of Athens from you (going toward Hartwell).