Buying a Sovereign

Islandlifer · 07-02-2006, 12:16 PM

Hi,
I'm new to the forum and I'm getting a second trailer to live in. I need something bigger than my Caravel.

I am thinking about buying a 1978 Sovereign, when I looked at it there were some cracks on the rear end, some breaks in the shell on the bottom left side, is this "rear end droop?" one wheel well is close to the inside of the wheel. What can I do about this? If I buy it can I do something to fix it? and how much should I ask the seller to go down on the price?

any advice welcome

Mike

**CanoeStream** · 07-02-2006, 01:45 PM

Hello Mike -- and welcome to the Forums!

I'm not sure just where the crack might be from your description. Rear end separation commonly shows as a crinkle in the side skin just behind the wheel wells. You may also see a gap developing between the rear vertical skin and the bumper -- if you pull out crumbles of plywood there could be some significant repair involved. The problem was inadequate strength to the frame so that it sagged aft of the wheels. The fix involves taking some belly wrap off and having a welder sister a plate against the frame in this area.

I'm not sure if your wheel well description suggests you have an axle problem. Is anything loose? A quick digital picture could be helpful. Tell us more in any event.

Best wishes in your quest!

dwightdi · 07-02-2006, 01:48 PM

Sure sounds bad. Pictures would help, but it does not sound good. There are some many good ones out there , Why take a chance? If the frame is cracked, it will be big bucks and time. Sounds like this one should be retired to a lakeside and put on blocks.

Islandlifer · 07-02-2006, 04:58 PM

Well that's a discouraging idea. I'd really like to try to fix her up. I really like this one and it's all good other wise. Where could I get it taken care of? Does it need an RV place or just a good welder? Is this a common problem? What causes it?

I will try to send some pictures when I can.

Mike