New Guy in Central Texas

[62Sovereign]

Hello,

My name's Ryan and I just got my first Airstream - a '62 Sovereign. Unfortunately, it's not in that great of condition, but it has a lot of potential. I'm a designer/artist with furniture making experience, so I hoping I haven't bitten off more that I chew. If anyone knows of any issues I should watch out for specific to my model, I'd love to hear it.

I'm striping out the interior now with the intention of saving as much as I can and making new pieces for what I can't. However, I am going to have to replace/repair the floor due to water damage. The exterior also a has a layer of roof paint on the seams which I need to find a way of removing without damaging the skin. I plan on scouring the forums for information, but if anyone has suggestions, please let me know. Thanks.

Ryan

[juel]

Welcome! I personally own an entirely "painted" Airstream, so I can't help you much with that bare aluminum skin. We Argosy people don't have to worry about polishing and all that. These trailers are lots of work and a whole lot of fun. You have your work cut out for you and you will love every minute of it. Especially the end where you get to take him out and CAMP.

[CaddyGrn]

Welcome to the forums! There are many folks who have completely redone their interiors and floors, as well as wiring, plumbing, etc. I suggest you use the search function and see how different folks have approached replacing their floor or portions of their floors. My husband did a complete disassemble on our vintage 1963 Bambi (certainly smaller than yours!) and has lots of photos and explanations of different things he did. Although ours is smaller, many of the processes one goes through will be similar. Take a look. Warning! It is a long thread! http://www.airforums.com/forums/f36/...mbi-17925.html

Any specific questions and folks will answer. I would be sure that your Airstream is leak proof or can be indoors in the winter before the weather turns bad.

When you have specific questions like "floor replacement" use the search tool at the top. It will give you all threads with those words but if you browse you might find things you need to know! If you can't find an answer begin a new thread with part of what you need, like ~ need help on new floor ~ folks will see the title and click and likely answer promptly.

Good luck! Post photos when you have questions as well, it always helps folks give best responses!

Mrs. NorCal Bambi (traveling in S Tardis)

[TBRich]

Hey Ryan...

Welcome to the forums and good luck with the rennovation! You are in exactly the right pace to find out everyting you'll need to know, and by the time you're done, you'll be advising the next crop of Airstreamers! Lots of info to be had here, and lots of fine AS folks to help you along and provide moral support...

You'll be so pleased when you have it ready to go camping!

Happy Project!
TB

[62Sovereign]

Thanks everyone. I've browsed through some threads and I've already picked up a lot of great information. As soon as I figure out how to upload some photos, I post those. I spent most of the day pulling out any water damaged cabinetry. I think the majority of the rest can be repaired and refinished. The woodwork (floor and furniture) in the front of the AS under the windows was the most badly water damaged. I don't know why, but the more I realize how much work I am going to have to do, the more excited I get. I think something is wrong with me.

[TBRich]

Uh-huh....sounds like you've been bit by the AS bug! There's no cure.

TB