Yet another newbie...

[DuaneNancy]

Hello!!
We will be the new owners of a 1976 31' Sovereign very soon and we are as thrilled as if expecting the other type of new family member.
The trailer is roadworthy but it needs work. In the last two days I've learned about axles, awnings and interiors. I've found this website (and registered, obviously), Vintage Trailer Supply, Inland RV and the very nice people at Tin Can Interiors.
I have many questions and some concerns. My first concern is my driveway; I haven't measured the angle but unless I can cut across my neighbor's driveway that has less of an incline I am fairly certain I will scrape the holding tank - or worse. In my search for an answer to this problem I learned how to evaluate the axles which affect riding height. I still need to go look at the position of the axles to determine if this is a problem. ARGH!! So much to learn!!
We are going to gut the interior and start over. There is a water leak - I'm not sure from where yet but that will be addressed as well.
See? Lots of questions. Anyway...
Any advice, tips, pointers, cautions, or lessons learned will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for having us!!
Duane and Nancy

[switz]

When you have trouble sleeping at night, there are thousands of articles you can read here until your eyes feel like the wheels in a slot machine in Las Vegas.

There are some really great "vintage" posters with great suggestions for your project and there is even a vintage restoration clinic that many attend and have reported they were saved lots of grief from making common mistakes.

Welcome aboard!

Enjoy!

[kswelsh]

Welcome, we had a 1975 Excella rear bath 30 foot trailer for 10 years and loved it! We did; however, drag the back end at times when backing into a space with a little hill or when backing into our driveway. Made me cringe every time. Good luck with your new baby.

[perri]

Yay, the more the merrier. We have a new2us 70 Overlander, and I have the same questions. I'm eager to hear more about this vintage restoration clinic. Sounds like a good idea.

[cwf]

Howdy!
Looking forward to enjoying your virtual company! Stream on!

Peace,
Channing and Phyllis

[Big C]

Perty much after you have driven, backed a few times you'll learn to see grades. Incline/decline from a distance at a glance. Seems as if you already have a thought or 2 of it. Can I pull in to get fuel there, groceries, will we fit this site. It gets easier as you go/get experienced.
This is a great place for research since there are many many many threads of those who have been there and done that. If road worthy, take her out for a weekend and you'll really see what needs to be redone/reworked/fixed. You bought it to travel in and you will find out really quick what needs to be done to make it your own.
Happy travels!

[RM66caravel]

Welcome and I looked but no pictures yet? Take lots of picture for posting and for memory because we sometimes forgot where or how one thing or another came from or how it looked mounted! Again welcome and we look forward to reading about your progress!
Cliff

[DuaneNancy]

We appreciate all the advice and warm welcomes. We will take pictures from start to finish, for sure!!
Thanks again!!

Duane and Nancy