Want to use wood paneling

[freerider]

I have a 1974 overlander and would like to change the inside wall covering to wood like I have seen done on some remodeled airstreams. How is this done? Do you need to strip the vinyl wall covering off or does the entire panel come off.

[barts]

The aluminum interior panels will come off if need be, although you can also just place wood paneling over the existing aluminum. I would not attempt to strip the vinyl from the panels in place.

This is a big job - you'll need to remove all interior cabinets, etc.

We chose to cover the wall in one area where the PO had painted the vinyl - it can be seen here on the left side... there's now a trim piece across the top that incorporates indirect LED lighting as well.

- Bart

[BigAl]

I suggest you do not remove the inner aluminum skin. It is part of the structural integrity of the trailer. Gives it some of it's strength. Just go over it.
Al

[kelseygus]

Hello, I also am restoring a 1972 31' I have been researching the covering of the bulkheads and cabinets. There are many veneer suppliers , with many thicknesses to choose. Recently i came across a vendor who supplies a veneer with a pre glued backing. If you are going to pay good money for this product you need to ask questions to the supplier. (which i have not done yet).

Since the Airstream gets extremely hot inside when not in use, the right adhesive needs to be researched. The process for re-skinning the existing walls (which appears to be a thin takeoff of wood grain Formica. is to remove the panel in question . The bulkheads have trim or corner moldings which need to be removed ,so the new covering will go under the trim, and look factory done. Depending on the thickness of the veneer, the edge of the panel being covered may need to be sanded to allow for the increased thickness of the panel ( to allow the metal trim to slide on ,for reinstallation.

Since i just found this supplier , you will have to wait , as the name is stored in another computer which is at my winter residence. Should have it in a few days.

I have been rennovating this unit very slowly, as it is a big job. I have 200 hrs on polishing and now am ready for the Cyclo polisher to finish the exterior.
The biggest thing that keeps me going is the brilliance of the shine. I am doing the exterior polish first as it requires the least cash outlay. Then if i loose interest , i can sellout and add $3,500 for the polish job plus extra profit for the fact that it looks cool!

Men have a thing about shine. $$$$$$$$$

Have fun , but be patient!