Dent in a 67 Caravel???

[vonzellen]

This winter a limb fell on the front of my 67 Caravel. It landed on a seam and pressed two panels down a couple of inches in a soccer size indentation above the front window. The panels are not flat stock on a 67. Some people have suggested just living with it and I understand that, but if one wanted to repair them correctly what do I do? Are the replacement panels available? Can they be made up? Who can do that type of repair?

[SilverHoot]

It's my understanding that the panels for the 67 are a whole different story. Probably should post some pics so the extent of damage is known. The replacement panels are not available that I know of. Can they be made? Most anything can be made for a price and if you find the person. Somebody that is skilled with the English wheel might be able to faricate a new panel. I would look for donor trailer, post in wanted section of classifieds, and check with places like this Used RV Parts - Colaw RV Used Parts and Accessories

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by SilverHoot

It's my understanding that the panels for the 67 are a whole different story. Probably should post some pics so the extent of damage is known. The replacement panels are not available that I know of. Can they be made? Most anything can be made for a price and if you find the person. Somebody that is skilled with the English wheel might be able to faricate a new panel. I would look for donor trailer, post in wanted section of classifieds, and check with places like this Used RV Parts - Colaw RV Used Parts and Accessories

Most all of the segments are still available.

Airstream sold all of their 1968 and prior segments to us, some 20 years ago.

Andy

[SilverHoot]

Thanks Andy, that's great to know.

[Colin H]

Originally Posted by vonzellen

This winter a limb fell on the front of my 67 Caravel. It landed on a seam and pressed two panels down a couple of inches in a soccer size indentation above the front window. The panels are not flat stock on a 67. Some people have suggested just living with it and I understand that, but if one wanted to repair them correctly what do I do? Are the replacement panels available? Can they be made up? Who can do that type of repair?

Depending on how bad the dent is & what you're willing to live with, often the dent can be virtually completely removed. It's always easier if you have access to the back of the dent, but with prudent use with a variety of tools from the outside will often give acceptable results. It really comes down to if & how much the metal was stretched when the impact occurred. Post some photos........................that would help the assessment.
Colin