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Old 03-15-2014, 08:36 AM   #1
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Awe...where to begin?

Hi all, this is my first post. I've been trying to write one now for two weeks, but don't know what to ask or better stated, I don't know where to begin.

My wife and I just bought a 1960 Tradewind that is in need of a total restoration. I would tell you the serial number, but don't know where to find it, or if there is one. I am a finish carpenter by trade, which is why this project excites me. So far, our plan is to carefully remove what cabinetry remains (the front sofa area is missing), then replace the entire subfloor as there is dry rot everywhere from a missing skylight, re-insulate the floor areas and repair any electrical/plumbing that runs under there and then begin either the refinishing of the cabinets or rebuilding them using current techniques. We also would like to replace all of the major appliances and fixtures with current "retro-looking" replacements.

My question to you all is: What do you wish you did first on your Airstream? Knowing that hindsight is 20/20 what should you have started with that would be good for me to know?!

Thanks for the help!!
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Old 03-15-2014, 08:41 AM   #2
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Making it watertight and repairing all the leaks is first. Then it sounds like you will need to do a frame off floor restoration/replacement and frame inspection. Only then will you have a sound foundation on which to build the remainder of your new interior.
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Old 03-15-2014, 08:49 AM   #3
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Thanks, that helps a lot! Spend some time surveying ALL the damage, great advice!
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Old 03-15-2014, 08:52 AM   #4
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1957 30' Sovereign of the Road
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tradewinder View Post
Hi all, this is my first post. I've been trying to write one now for two weeks, but don't know what to ask or better stated, I don't know where to begin.

My wife and I just bought a 1960 Tradewind that is in need of a total restoration. I would tell you the serial number, but don't know where to find it, or if there is one. I am a finish carpenter by trade, which is why this project excites me. So far, our plan is to carefully remove what cabinetry remains (the front sofa area is missing), then replace the entire subfloor as there is dry rot everywhere from a missing skylight, re-insulate the floor areas and repair any electrical/plumbing that runs under there and then begin either the refinishing of the cabinets or rebuilding them using current techniques. We also would like to replace all of the major appliances and fixtures with current "retro-looking" replacements.

My question to you all is: What do you wish you did first on your Airstream? Knowing that hindsight is 20/20 what should you have started with that would be good for me to know?!

Thanks for the help!!
Welcome to the Forums! You've got the order about right, but you'll also have to remove the interior skins & bellypan as well. This will allow you to access to the bolts that hold the "C" channels in the walls to the floor & frame. There are numerous threads that explain the process, however there are several approaches.

The first being the "body on" floor replacement method, which is far more difficult & gives a poorer job in the end, as far as I'm concerned.

The second approach is the "body off" method which allows you to rework every part of the frame, install tanks, etc, plus it keeps you from lying on your back under an old trailer with funk falling in your face. This is how we do it at my shop, unless there is only localized floor panel replacement necessary.

You should also check out The Vintage Airstream Podcast | Vintage Trailer Restoration as we've discussed these methods & everything else associated with vintage Airstream restoration.

It's a daunting undertaking, but very rewarding in the end.
Good luck,
Colin
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Old 03-15-2014, 09:19 AM   #5
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Thanks Colin, I don't know how I didn't stumble across your site in my near constant perusing of all things Airstream!
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Old 06-07-2014, 07:00 PM   #6
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Well, so this is a little embarrassing, I'm hoping someone can confirm for me that what I actually bought was a tradewind trailer. I'm not sure because it seems to match the layout photos of the tradewind, but it has two axels and the serial # is 28ds-0203. Which would make it appear like an Ambassador. Confused as the inside of the trailer measures 24-1/2' not 28'Click image for larger version

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Old 06-07-2014, 07:17 PM   #7
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You can change your handle! Maybe it's not taken yet.

I think length is usually measured from hitch to bumper.

Good luck with your remodel.
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Old 06-08-2014, 06:47 AM   #8
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1957 30' Sovereign of the Road
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tradewinder View Post
Well, so this is a little embarrassing, I'm hoping someone can confirm for me that what I actually bought was a tradewind trailer. I'm not sure because it seems to match the layout photos of the tradewind, but it has two axels and the serial # is 28ds-0203. Which would make it appear like an Ambassador. Confused as the inside of the trailer measures 24-1/2' not 28'Attachment 213746Attachment 213747Attachment 213748
This looks very similar to my 59 Ambassador International. Check out the archive section in Vintage Airstream - Airstream Trailer Resource to confirm.
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Old 06-08-2014, 08:01 AM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tradewinder View Post
Well, so this is a little embarrassing, I'm hoping someone can confirm for me that what I actually bought was a tradewind trailer. I'm not sure because it seems to match the layout photos of the tradewind, but it has two axels and the serial # is 28ds-0203. Which would make it appear like an Ambassador. Confused as the inside of the trailer measures 24-1/2' not 28'Attachment 213746Attachment 213747Attachment 213748
A very simple way to determine which model is measure the length of the roadside side sheet metal.

If it's a Tradewind, it will measure 14 feet, an Overlander would be 16 feet, an Ambassador would be 18 feet, and a Sovereign would be 20 feet.

Andy
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Old 06-08-2014, 01:11 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Tradewinder View Post
Well, so this is a little embarrassing, I'm hoping someone can confirm for me that what I actually bought was a tradewind trailer. I'm not sure because it seems to match the layout photos of the tradewind, but it has two axels and the serial # is 28ds-0203. Which would make it appear like an Ambassador. Confused as the inside of the trailer measures 24-1/2' not 28'Attachment 213746Attachment 213747Attachment 213748
The "28" in the serial number, says that the trailer is a 28 foot model, which is an Ambassador.

Andy
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Old 06-09-2014, 11:15 AM   #11
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Even if the interior layout doesn't match those of the ambassador?
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Old 06-09-2014, 11:24 AM   #12
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Even if the interior layout doesn't match those of the ambassador?
Back in that era, Airstream would do custom interior work , so it may not match anything.
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Old 06-09-2014, 11:42 AM   #13
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I'm a little backwards than most people (so I'm told!)

If I were you, I get the trailer safe with running gear, brakes, lights, and hitch.

Then I would go camping!

Throw an air mattress in it and go find a local park and have some fun! I've heard of to many people that begin the restoration with vigor, only to get burned out.

If you experience "the goal", I think you will be more inclined to keep at the project till your done.
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Old 06-18-2014, 12:14 PM   #14
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Well after taking you're advice, I got out the tape measure and found that I am more or less completely dumb. I have an Ambassador, not a tradewind, therefore making my call name all-the-more ridiculous!!! Before I gutted it, the interior layout was identical to a tradewind configuration, which is still baffling, but regardless, I appreciate all of the advice and assistance.
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Old 06-18-2014, 12:46 PM   #15
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Nothing dumb about that - old trailers can be a sort of detective game So you've been promoted to Ambassador!

Good luck with your resto!
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