What's This?? 62 Globetrotter

[Bradjun1]

Can anyone tell me what this is. It is on the bottom of the trailer just behind the propane tanks. There used to be a wire going to it. It says "variable resistor " on it. Thank You Brad

[bfk]

Maybe something to do with the brakes?

I can't imagine putting a big resistor in series with the battery, and not much else draws significant current, at least on a '64.

Of course, this is a guess, so feel free to shoot me down...

Brian

[overlander64]

Greetings Brad!

The photo is of a selective resistor utilized with the Kelsey Hayes hydraulic brake controllers that were common on towcars when your rig was new. The intensity of the application of the brakes was adjusted by this resistor (unlike our modern electronic controllers that have similar adjustments made via dials or slides on the controller itself). You can read more about the Kelsey Hayes hydraulic controllers as well as the selective resistor (pg. 4 of pdf) in the document linked below:

http://airstream.net/members/documen...lsey-hayes.pdf

I am not aware of any modern (recent) controllers that would be compatible with one of these resistors. The last one that I owned was taken out of service in 1983 when its brake fluid displacement exceeded that which was acceptable with my then new GMC G20 Conversion Van.

Good luck with your coach!

Kevin

[Bradjun1]

Thank You. I felt this was brake related but I have never seen one before. Right now the brakes don't work at all but I haven't had a chance to work on them yet. I found a real nice old Globetrotter that needs some TLC and this is a way down the list but I will get to it. The skin on this trailer is oxidized but no dents,scratches or road rash. The interior is all original and sound. All the electrical(12 and 110 volt work as do all the appliances. All the outside lights still work too. I have already bought new lights and window cranks. I will polish it just like my 25 next spring. Check out my photos. Thanks again. Brad

[wunderful62]

nice trailer brad, i too have a 62 19ft globetrotter. i replied to your thread questions about the a/c and things but called you scott,by mistake.