'48 Trailwind pipe frame replacement

[Benjo]

Just picked it up in Florida and this is what i have found.
1) The tongue was totally eaten up by the salt and years sitting.
2) The pipe that leads goes the length of the trailer is rusted pretty bad.
3) The axle and leaf springs are very weak and ready to snap.
4) The floor is pretty warped and will need to be replaced.

Thoughts: Based on my conversations with vintage airstreamers and what i've learned on this forum is that all of that stuff will have to be replaced so that the coach will be roadworthy again. I emailed Bud but it was returned so I am writing to see if any of you that own a '48 want to come along with me and answer questions that I have.
Hope to hear from you soon,

Benjo

[Benjo]

My question is whether or not I should do a a structural reinforcement on the frame or should I do a shell off? I know that a shell off would be ideal but has anyone reinforced the pipe frames without taking the shell off? Thanks

[Jim Foster]

Originally Posted by Benjo

I emailed Bud but it was returned

Benjo

If it's Bud Cooper you are trying to reach, I understand why. I have seen his trailer. He had a new frame made with modern suspension and a new floor. Removed the shell from the old, beat up and bent frame and put it on the new one. If your frame is bad, your suspension is bad, tongue is bad, floor is bad, what's the question?
You can spend more time, work and money trying to save something that when you are done will still be old technology, not too safe and likely to give trouble in the future. Bud installed a section of the old pipe frame at the back of the new frame to give an old look. I think he said he had a boat trailer builder make the new frame.

[Benjo]

yeah, i have heard about his project and will plan to have a new frame built. i guess it's a bit daunting to think about taking the shell off but in the end but it will be good for another 60. does anyone know his current email address? i would like to run some things by him. thanks.