'62 Globetrotter

[Maya]

Does anyone know where to start with the renovation of a 1962 Globetrotter?
I finally ahave the money and time to start but, there's no owners manual so I'm kind of lost.
What's the structure behind the skin where I see rivets?
I'd feel better if I replaced the heater. Anyone know wht I should be replacing the heater with?
I only see one vent for both the plumbing and the hot water heater. In houses vent pipes for water and exhast pipes for carbon monoxide from water heater are separate. Are these two combined in a trailer or is that heater already electric? I would like to use an electric tankless on demand hot water heater so that I don't need to worry about the exhaust make use of the wasted space where the tank is. Any reccomendations for brand and model?
Also, has anyone heard of those stainless steel incinerator toilets that don't require holding tank for waste water and what are your thoughts?
How do I figure out if the axel and springs are in good shape without towing it somewhere?
When I bought it the guy who sold it had the title but no keys, do I need to find a specialty locksmith or just anyone?
Thanks.

[squrlgurl]

** How do I figure out if the axel and springs are in good shape without towing it somewhere?
When I bought it the guy who sold it had the title but no keys, do I need to find a specialty locksmith or just anyone?
Thanks.**

Maya, I may not be of much technical assistance,as I am a new owner of a 63 Overlander and have found some info that helped me get started on my trailer . Here is some info that came to mind regarding your post.

The VAP (Vintage Airstream Podcast) episode 3 had a great and informative discussion on axels that should get ou started. Go to http://www.thevap.com/ and click on "Episode 3" in the left pane. You do not need an iPod to listen to it directly on the internet, just let it stream or download it and listen later.

Our PO did not have the keys for our AS either and we desperately needed to get into the hatches. My hubby drilled the lock cylinders right out. We will take them to our locksmith and see if he can find replacements for them. Will post back on the list when we do.

As for a general list of stuff to start inspecting after getting a "new" AS, go to :
http://www.airstream.net/FAQ/FAQ_4.html#Restoring

Also, the main page of the airstreamforums.com "FAQ's" page has links to all kinds of good info for us noobies:
http://www.airstream.net/FAQ/FAQ_index.html