Opinions -- Where to Start - Page 2

JohnG · 07-04-2004, 12:45 PM

Oh, if I missed anything on my list would someone please tell me.

A few post to let me know that my plan will be ok would help to reinforce my confidence too.

Silvertwinkie · 07-04-2004, 01:17 PM

FYI...I talked to Airstream several months ago. Vulkum is only used in the wheel wells on newer coaches. Silkaflex (sp) is what they use for everything else. I would use what the factory now uses as I am sure they have researched it enough.

I also agree with Jack...gotta start from the bottom up (unless it's being restored on location where it sits).

**jcanavera** · 07-04-2004, 03:24 PM

John, it sounds like you have a good plan. You will like the Jordon control. I put one in my van last year. Its the best control I have ever used. Good luck on the tow back.

Regards,

Jack

JohnG · 07-04-2004, 03:34 PM

Thanks Jack,
I hope I have it covered. I only have to tow it 90 miles to get it home, but have to wait for the ground to firm up so need a little dry weather (Around 5 days) to pull it from it's present location
And the forcast for the next 5 days - Rain 4 out of 5.....................

Silvertwinkie · 07-04-2004, 08:20 PM

Well, looking at it as the glass half full...after you get it out, the rain will keep the tires nice and cool.

Condoluminum · 07-05-2004, 09:23 PM

John-

After reading replies, I'm sure 90 mile ride home will be piece of cake, if weather ever dries out... Only possible item missing from checklist might be St. Christopher medal, just as potential spiritual insurance... We do carry floor jack in tow vehicle when on long road trip, along with 12v compressor and extension cord and air tank, just in case... (That may qualify as belts, suspenders and some snaps..)

The Sovereign 31 is not much heavier than Safari 28 due to changes in construction and almost 6 inches of extra width beginning in 1995. We happily tow Excella 25 at 5500# (roughly, haven't been on scale yet fully loaded..) with 1/2 ton Chevy Suburban, Class III hitch, leveling and anti-sway bars, and new set of air adjustible Gabriel rear shocks. Wish I had Vortec version (250 v. our 200 hp) but it's fine other than up steep hills in mountains... Tow ratings also depend a lot on what you're carrying in the truck...

Welcome again, and enjoy the fun of finding parts and documentation and sources of help as you bring the Sovereign back to a useful life...

John McG

JohnG · 07-31-2004, 12:56 AM

Just wanted to post this to say that I got the AS home just fine.

The first picture below is from the PO location and the one below that is with the AS at home and after its first bath. Wish the reat of fixing it would be as easy as the wash job was..................................

**wahoonc** · 07-31-2004, 03:28 AM

John,
That cleaned up NICE! wish my clear coat looked that good

Aaron

jdleezer · 07-31-2004, 07:10 AM

John,

Congratulations on the safe trip home. As previously mentioned, I would start now making sure the trailer is sealed, to prevent water leaks (if it any) by using vulkem/silkaflex around doors, vents, and windows; and Parbound around smaller joints and seams. But I would also replace all gaskets around windows, door, and access doors. Once she is water tight, you can take your time formulating a plan as to what to do next.

Again, congratulations and have fun.

59toaster · 07-31-2004, 08:55 AM

Many here will tell you you should start on this or that but really that's the wrong place to start.

You really need to start with a good shrink because most people you know now think you are crazy! LOL

Welcome to the crazyness of restoration. hehehehe
Good looking start. Exterior looks in great shape.

JohnG · 07-31-2004, 01:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 59toaster

Many here will tell you you should start on this or that but really that's the wrong place to start.

You really need to start with a good shrink because most people you know now think you are crazy! LOL

Welcome to the crazyness of restoration. hehehehe
Good looking start. Exterior looks in great shape.

No need to worry there, people already say i'm crazy.
Restoration is crazy from a business point of view. You're never going to get out the money you put in, but money can't buy the satisfaction that you get from bringing something back from the grave to be admired by all.
I'm not new to restoration. I'll post some pictures of 2 of my beauties.
1. Getting ready for it's new face
2. Looking much better
3. Rear side
These are old phots and din't scan very well
4 Cleaned up looking sharp at a car show.

I'll post my 2nd 58 that was just completed about a year ago in the next frame down.

JohnG · 07-31-2004, 01:43 PM

I used to think Black was the greatest color, but this one really came out great although it was not the common color back in 58.

59toaster · 07-31-2004, 06:22 PM

OUTSTANDING! they look awsome!

One day I'll get back to working on my 1970 LeMans Sport convertable. Ones I do I'm putting a hitch on it so we can use it to tow the 59 Airstream to closer destinations in the spring and fall when the weather is nice.

JohnG · 07-31-2004, 06:30 PM

Graet idea. I think the idea of towing a nice looking vintage AS with a vintage automobile that looks equally as nice is just awesome.

Sometimes that idea makes me with I had a 58 Airstream, but then I know that I would be a rally nut............