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mgjurina · 07-16-2015, 10:51 AM

Hello everyone. I'm new to AS and recently purchased a 1975 AS Sovereign, 31 foot trailer. The front end has damage from tree limb. I'm currently stripping the trailer and reading all the threads about restoration. I have purchased all the tools required and continue reading threads to gain insight and ideas on how to tear down and restore. My rebuild will be down to the frame. I will complete all the work myself and post pictures and progress as the weeks and months progress. I currently work full time for Schneider Electric and plan to restore on the weekends. Your input is appreciated and respected. Currently I'm in the process of stripping the interior skin and removing insulation. In August, I'm traveling to ID to pick-up the entire front end from a 1976 AS Sovereign. I will remove my front end and install the replacement. I will post pictures when I get them. My first question. Looking at the third picture, and based on the position of my wheel, do I need new axles? I towed the vehicle 240 miles after purchase. All lights and electric brakes were operational.

Panama Red · 07-16-2015, 11:09 AM

Popular consensus is that if they're original axles, you need to replace them. The determining factor isn't so much position when down, but how far they travel when loaded vs unloaded. To me it would be a shame to put all the time, money, and effort into the camper just to beat it down the road on old axles. I replaced them on my '74, and never looked back... Well, except in the mirror when towing, making sure the axles don't come flying out from under this thing.

-Red, pro axle replacement...

Rolland · 07-16-2015, 11:38 AM

I agree-Replace the axles. They are rubber inside, and it hardens over the years. Not replacing them will negate all your hard work on the first long trip. Good luck with your project. We finished our 67 (31') last year, and just returned from another 5000 plus mile trip without incident. Rolland

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mgjurina · 07-16-2015, 03:05 PM

Working on inside skin removal. Hopefully will be finished this weekend.

NavyCorpsman · 07-17-2015, 08:47 PM

Welcome! That's a real head turner. It will be again.

perryg114 · 07-17-2015, 08:53 PM

Axels would be last on the list of priorities. You need a donor trailer to get that front end. Must have been one heck of a limb.

Perry

mgjurina · 07-18-2015, 05:27 AM

Thanks for your feedback. I recently found a front end intact. I will be driving to ID to pickup in August. Recently removed front end and windows.

**GCinSC2** · 07-18-2015, 06:10 AM

I never done anything like what you're doing but I see a light coming thru the tunnel👍best of luck.

Gary

Hoobiedoobie · 07-18-2015, 06:51 AM

following

Panama Red · 07-18-2015, 07:05 AM

I agree with Perry, axles last on list of priorities, but still make sure they're on the list... You're a long way out from axles anyways. Awesome work you're doing! Wish I'd have gutted mine all the way down an done a frame off, but we really wanted to get camping in it... Maybe the next one.

-Red, watching the magic from the sidelines...

mgjurina · 08-20-2015, 07:08 PM

They said it could not be done. Despite the obstacles, I retrieved the AS front end from Sandpoint, ID to Salt Lake City, UT to Lebanon, PA. 2700 miles on the back of my truck. I made a wood frame that mounted to the inside bed of the truck. We attached 1/2" plywood to the airstream opening and bolted to C-channel. I cut a hole (2' x 2') in the middle of the plywood to gain access into interior section. We lifted the front onto the back of my truck with floor facing the front. I climb inside the front end via the bed if the truck and 2'x2' opening. I used deck screws and secured the entire assembly to the wood frame mounted inside the bed. For security, I installed rachet straps on each side. The owners neighbor was the chief of police for that area. He came over and examined our installation. He gave us his blessing and said I should have not issues transporting this back East. Basically, the tail lights and license plate must be visible and the load must not exceed the width of mirrors.

NavyCorpsman · 08-21-2015, 08:08 AM

Hand Salute and a standing ovation!!!!!! I'm sure that you turned a few heads on the way home. I'm glad you made a safe trip.

mgjurina · 09-26-2015, 11:26 AM

Due to unforeseen events, I must sell my Airstream project and all parts I have accumulated over the last 6-months. Please respond if you are interested. The trailer would be considered a donor trailer with $1000 in new parts and tools.