Am I crazy?! 57 caravanner rehab in 3 weeks

[Icrashcars]

My wife,our 2 year old son, and I are planning a 3 month cross country RV trip starting sept 1st. We originally planned to buy a new(er) 19' camper trailer, but we're very disappointed in the build quality of everything in our price range (10k-15k).

We went to a family BBQ yesterday and found out that her uncle has a 57 Caravanner sitting in his backyard.

I did a prelim survey and found that all windows are intact and complete, roof was resealed and does not leak, and the floor has been replaced.

Most of the interior is there sans bed and couch.

The shell is in great condition with only 1 small surface scrape, non puncture.

Axle and leaf springs look rusted, but not rotted. Hitch is in good condition.

I am an experienced home mechanic and have brought several vintage European cars back to life. I have ample space, resources, and tools (and a decent budget) to work with.

I plan on doing a full survey of all systems tomorrow. I will report back my findings with pics.

I've read through many forums and know the basics of what to check. (Plumbing, gas system, electric)

Please chime in if there is anything specific I should pay attention to.

Thank you in advance.

[Melody Ranch]

Quick and dirty is what I will call this. You should plan on a new converter, a new (good) battery, a new water pump, new tires and a spare, go ahead and replace the bearings ...you were going to grease them anyway. Expect little maintenance items along the way so have a good little tool box along. A 57 Caravaner is a great Airstream.....lots of windows so plan on curtains.

[nrgtrakr]

We bought a 75 Overlander 27' knowing it needed work, but the price was acceptable in comparison to what needed repaired or replaced. Getting it road worthy and useable took maybe a month, mostly because we're a hours drive from anything. When finished, with me doing all of the work, we'll have less in it than a brand new white box of smaller size.

If possible hook it up and smoke test it, check everything ... the stuff that makes it an RV, as well as the trailer side (to include age of tires).

There is a buyers check list somewhere on the forum that might come in handy.

[Icrashcars]

Thanks for the insight. If all checks out And there aren't any major surprises, I already have a basic gameplan.

New power system: fuse box, converter, dual batteries.

New axle, hub bearings, electric brakes, wheels, tires. Researching the torsion system retrofit.

New water management system: pump, tanks (add gray). Updated external fittings.

Sand, prime, paint bumpers and hitch.

Custom cabinetry throughout. Brother in law is a cabinet maker by trade and said he knock it out in a couple days.

Pergo floors.

Wife is handling all fabrics and furniture.

If time allows, I will strip and polish her.

We don't need it fancy. Just clean, safe, and dry.

Total goal is 150 hours or less of my time (plus help).

[nrgtrakr]

You might enjoy this:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ef59GarnwvM

There are others as well.

[Melody Ranch]

You did say departure around Sept 1st.

[Icrashcars]

Originally Posted by Melody Ranch

You did say departure around Sept 1st.

Yes, that's the plan!

I've done more in less time. Albeit on a car platform that I was familiar with.

I think it's feasible (with lots of long days) if everything is working as the current owner says. Tomorrow will be the determining factor.

[Melody Ranch]

It is not going to happen.

[thehandyman]

May take a little longer than you think.

[nrgtrakr]

Get it useable and road worthy in that amount of time - easy.

All changes as listed ... I'm retired, it can wait until we get back.

[tdk51]

The buffing will take 60 to 90 hours

[labtopia]

Call me. I started full timing in the same vehicle 2 mos ago adding 400 watts of solar, 750ah bats, fantastic vents, fridge composting toilet and more. I'll share everything Dave 67890892.32

Originally Posted by Icrashcars

My wife,our 2 year old son, and I are planning a 3 month cross country RV trip starting sept 1st. We originally planned to buy a new(er) 19' camper trailer, but we're very disappointed in the build quality of everything in our price range (10k-15k).

We went to a family BBQ yesterday and found out that her uncle has a 57 Caravanner sitting in his backyard.

I did a prelim survey and found that all windows are intact and complete, roof was resealed and does not leak, and the floor has been replaced.

Most of the interior is there sans bed and couch.

The shell is in great condition with only 1 small surface scrape, non puncture.

Axle and leaf springs look rusted, but not rotted. Hitch is in good condition.

I am an experienced home mechanic and have brought several vintage European cars back to life. I have ample space, resources, and tools (and a decent budget) to work with.

I plan on doing a full survey of all systems tomorrow. I will report back my findings with pics.

I've read through many forums and know the basics of what to check. (Plumbing, gas system, electric)

Please chime in if there is anything specific I should pay attention to.

Thank you in advance.

[crestonrv]

may take that long to get an axle ! the torsion is the choice . be aware new springs are 26.5" originals are almost 35"
with your schedule , check spindles and bearings / brakes maybe a good pack and you are on your way ? brakes should be replaced if stock !
as for systems for 1 trip a new grey tnk is pretty ambitious ! a blu tnk would get you through and then you can take your time and do it right.

[utee94]

Have you opened up the bellypan to inspect the fame and floor for rot? It's almost inevitable on trailers this old.

Good luck, please share pictures and keep us posted.

-Marcus

[AtomicNo13]

I think you'll most likely be disappointed with a quick slap and wipe.
3 weeks just barely gives spray paint time to dry......
Give it the time both it and your family deserve! A breakdown with your family is a major deal breaker that has your family flying home!

[J. Morgan]

The wife and I did this in 14 days, but it was a lot less work than you propose.

I didn't touch the ugly outside, just fresh water plumbing, general repair, and cosmetics.

[Icrashcars]

Sorry for The delay in updating the thread. I did a thorough inspection and found some good, but also very bad/ sad news.

The electrical and inning had been rehabbed at some point. Wiring and pipes were all in great shape.

The fas lines showed some wear.

However, I found frame rot. Many 1"-2" sized holes through the front and rear of the frame. The middle was in very good shape.

I ended up passing on the trailer for now, but may revisit after my trip.

I have some pics of the outside which I will try to post.

Thanks again for your advice and homely I'll be back with a project in the near future