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Old 06-22-2008, 03:47 PM   #3
bryanl
Rivet Master
Profile:  1975 29' Ambassador
Reno , Nevada
Posts: 1,065

I agree with Andy that the full answer is not so simple. It is very interesting to take apart the inside of an Airstream and try to figure out why it was built that way and the purpose of what you find (other than a dead squirrel or similar artifact sometimes).

Basically there is an inch and half of space filled by fiberglass insulation between ribs that is prevented from bunching by some internal strips of aluminum in strategic places.

The interior skin rivetted to ribs by rivets is an important part of the structure. A key is the panel at the top with its two rails - that's a pop in fit. The ribs have dimples for wiring and both the outer and inner skin are riveted to them.

I would not consider dealing with the inside skin a one man job. The panels are large and a relatively heavy gauge. From taking apart a '75, I don't see any special tools or techniques as being required, just the patience to deal with lots and lots of rivets!

In some areas (kitchen or bath expecially) you may find more than one layer of inside skin. If you have the vista view windows, the screen for them is just a slide - seemed rather crudely mounted to me. When the edges of a panel are exposed, they are covered with just a simple plastic trim.

Taking it apart is the easy part of the job. Getting it back together again can be interesting. I am heartened by the fact that it appears a number of folks around here have managed the task.
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