Shell Edge Channels - can you identify the original?

[Caravel-61]

Hello, I have extracted the channels that run along the front and rear curved edges of our shell. I have 2 different types, I assume one is original and one is from a repair. Which style is which? One is bent from aluminum channel (left in image), the other is folded from a thin gauge sheet steel (right in image). Thanks, Chris.

[STLRooster]

Hey there Caravel - 61,

I just pulled the rear out of my 71 Overlander (rotted, non-existent floor) and the rear most channel is badly corroded/oxidized. I too am looking for some new stuff and wonder if it can be purchased, or if people have had it custom made? It's straight for about 4 feet, but then curves to meet the sides of the trailer. Are you looking for replacement as well?

[TheOhioSean]

Thanks for the photos. I believe the one on the left (aluminum) is the original; my understanding is that all the metal above the floor was aluminum, except for the wheel wells.

That certainly seems to have been the case with my 1949 Liner. Mine was damaged at some point prior to my acquiring it. There is no continuous channel along the front and rear end curves on mine, just small sections of U-bent aluminum sheet spaced at intervals. My guess from pics I've seen online is that I should have a pair of pieces much like yours. I'm investigating having replacements fabricated, and will let you know what I learn.

[wahoonc]

Original channels were always aluminum to the best of my knowledge.

I had to replace the rear channel on my 1975, bought it from Out-of-Doors Mart. Call them and they will be glad to help you out. They had the part in stock when I bought it. I drove up and picked it up.

Aaron

[STLRooster]

Hey all,

Just following up on this since I last saw/posted. Caravel, I think as OhioSean said, it's teh one on the left. Based on what I have in mine and what I saw from Airstream, it looks to be it. I called Airstream and they have replacement channels available. They have one for mine (71 overlander, part number 104463) but I am not sure how much year overlap there is for the "rear bow" as they call it. $75 from them, but call your local dealer and see if they have one laying around from a special order long ago. Mine did and it's been laying there for like 10 years!

[Colin H]

Originally Posted by Caravel-61

Hello, I have extracted the channels that run along the front and rear curved edges of our shell. I have 2 different types, I assume one is original and one is from a repair. Which style is which? One is bent from aluminum channel (left in image), the other is folded from a thin gauge sheet steel (right in image). Thanks, Chris.

Both are correct, as Airstream used both versions & switched over to the formed piece (LH) around the time your trailer was built. I guess they were just using up old stock. Earlier 50's trailers had only segments every six inches or so.
Colin