Lift Off on Hold - Short Ribs Found

[DFlores]

Was moving quickly this morning, removing interior panels and insulation going for shell "Lift Off". The plan was to do lift from above after removing interior panels, but I found that the ribs on my Safari are not continuous across top of trailer. There were extra panels of vinyl clad sheets riveted to ends of "short ribs", I am guessing that this is for some strength. The extra panels have been removed, and I find that the ceiling is bouncey as I walk across floor.

Was this a bad day at the plant or is this typical installation? Has anyone encountered this before?

I hope to reinforce missing members with new ribbing, now where do I get this material?

The Shell Off is on hold until we can get the strength in framing to support weight of shell from above.

[ddstech]

It seems they pulled tricks like this all the time. Maybe there was a shortage that day and they just used what was laying around. Seriously, I have dove into two of these and both had surprises. Just brace it with some plywood or aluminum braces and proceed. You can fabricate stiffeners and provide extra support when you put it all back together. The important thing is to brace it up so it doesn't turn into a wet noodle upon liftoff.

[cameront120]

Am I the only one who thought this was going to be about barbecue?

[meredith]

Nope I thought it was about a BBQ too. I love me some good ribs!!!

[DFlores]

Originally Posted by meredith

Nope I thought it was about a BBQ too. I love me some good ribs!!!

OK, I will think about a mess o' ribs once I get my aluminum ribs in place.

[DFlores]

You know how everyone says "sure I walk on top of airstreams everyday", well I went to remove AC unit to relieve the tension on the "short ribs", one hand near the AC unit and it depressed about 4". Sooo...oooo went with alternate plan to remove AC. One man team at work here.

[soldiermedic]

David,

My 68 safari was EXACTLY the same with where the ribs stopped. I am inclined to believe this was how they built them at that time at the factory. I don't think you would have to add new ribs, but would certainly shore things up if you want the piece of mind.

Steve

[ddstech]

I was told by the dealer where I bought my a/c to not use ANY sealant when I put the new one back it. It just sandwiches the two pieces together. So in my mind, it's critical that the hole be framed in well to prevent leaks.