Rebuilding a 1988 35' Argosy 5th wheel

detree · 08-29-2007, 11:12 AM

Hello to all and I am so very glad to find this Forum. Had looked about 2 years ago when I first bought this trailer but was little Argosy info then. Family obligations took over and we are just now getting into a complete tear down and rebuild of this fine old Argosy.
I will have pics and more very soon to ask recommendations from the resident experts. For the short word; it had been VERY used and not much maint. done by PO. I love it though for the solid construction and rarity.
The biggest problem was an improperly installed awning which caused major water leaks and rotted the floor around back and sides. It is now torn down except for the dining area cabinets and bath. I have cut out the floor to inspect damage and we are in the process of finding leaks, sandblasting the rusted frame members and rebuilding decking. My plan is to increase ventilation though out the floor area, use pressure treated to replace floor and top it with a floating laminate floor. Any thoughts????
We will follow by replacing the removed fold-out seat in the rear, new appliances, and then MOVE IN!!! More to follow as I have pics but want to get back to work now.
Oh, and despite my profile, it is a 1988 35' Argosy. That one was not available.

InsideOut · 08-29-2007, 11:21 AM

Don't know much about the 5th Wheels...not many on the Forums. But welcome aboard - post some pics so we can all see & learn!

Quote:

Originally Posted by detree

Oh, and despite my profile, it is a 1988 35' Argosy. That one was not available.

It is now! I've updated the trailer choices in the User profiles...you will see your selection is now available, so you can update your profile.

Shari

detree · 08-29-2007, 11:33 AM

Allright! Thanks so much Shari. How fast our trailer got listed in selection! Now you all know what we have. I will try to post some pics tonight.

lewster · 08-29-2007, 11:59 AM

detree,

Good luck on the restoration. Can't wait to see some photos.

I would NOT use pressure treated decking as it contains arsenic as part of the preservation process, and I would not want to be around it when it out-gasses (which it does!) It is not rated for water but rather for use in ground contact situations.

I would go with marine grade plywood. It will withstand just about everything the trailer could throw at it.

Have fun and keep us posted!

InsideOut · 08-29-2007, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by detree

How fast our trailer got listed in selection! Now you all know what we have.

The trailer list in the profile section is by no means definative...if we don't know it exists, we can't list it!

Thanks to all those who help "fill-in the blanks".

Shari

wanderer1 · 08-29-2007, 10:07 PM

Hello Detree,Welcome to Airstream Forums! I own an '86 32' Argosy trailer better know as a squarestream or squaregosy. If you scroll to the top of the page,on the top left beside "portal",click "forums". Then scroll down to "Airstream trailer forums" and click it. Click "all squarestream trailers". This is where you'll find the most info on our type of Airstream trailers! The squarestreams and squaregosys are rare enought,but the fifth wheels are extremely rare!

Good luck on you restore! Brian

LJH · 08-29-2007, 10:40 PM

Welcome Bastrop. A 35 Argosy wheeler, now that is rare, can't wait to see the pics. This is THE place for info (not much from me,though, like you I'm just learnig)

Keep Smilin LJH

LJH · 08-29-2007, 10:44 PM

Sorry detree, I was wondering where in Texas that was and, well, I should never type and think at the same time.

LJH