Shell off 2008 Bambi!

[Big Dad]

Hey, I have read many of the posts about removing the shell, as I am replacing the floor. I have all the interior removed except for the ceiling panels, bolts and screws removed from around the "C" channel, just starting to remove the lower section of rivets from the exterior. The C channel wraps around the plywood top and bottom so do I remove the rivets from the bottom areas of the ribs (that are laying in the C channel) and then it should separate right!
My question is I am lifting by way of jacking it up from the floor. Other than the bracing for lifting, does the body need additional bracing. I saw a picture on a forum of lifting from the ceiling and the rest of the body had no other bracing. Any info would be great.
RV Daddy.

[perryg114]

As long as the ribs are intact the shell should hold its shape. Hard to believe a trailer than new needing a shell off. You may have the newest trailer with a shell off.

Perry

[reinergirl]

Jacking from the bottom creates different stresses than lifting from the top.

Honestly I think bracing it would be a good prudent measure. Make sure you also brace it accross the door threshold as it will want to spread. And if you have it outside make sure you tie it down well to the ground. .

[Big Dad]

Originally Posted by perryg114

As long as the ribs are intact the shell should hold its shape. Hard to believe a trailer than new needing a shell off. You may have the newest trailer with a shell off.

Perry

Hey Perry, yeah it had a broken window in the rear and the PO let water get in it, so it buckled the floor. Also it was leaking around the water tank in the front as well. I'm bringing it back to fresh, so it has to come off!

[Big Dad]

Originally Posted by reinergirl

Jacking from the bottom creates different stresses than lifting from the top.

Honestly I think bracing it would be a good prudent measure. Make sure you also brace it accross the door threshold as it will want to spread. And if you have it outside make sure you tie it down well to the ground. .

Its in my shop and out of the weather. It's a tad over 12' ID front to rear so I thought a few cross members and one down the center a foot off the floor. Are you talking about bracing if the entry door is removed, or?
Thanks for the reply,

[Big Dad]

Well I got the shell off yesterday. I do believe next time I will build the gantry setup, as lifting it was a royal pain....
Thanks for all the advice!