Basic exterior cleaning of a neglected trailer

[Andy R]

I recently purchased a 1961 Bambi that had been sitting in a field in Idaho for who knows how long? What should I do to clean the exterior of as much residue as possible.

• Will a coarse scrub brush scratch the surface through the oxidation?
• What soap/detergent would work the best?
• I have read about mineral spirits? Would these be effective at this point?

I plan on polishing her when it gets warmer.

[VintageRV]

Your 1961 Airstream most likely does not have a plasticoat on it. That means you can polish it as soon as you are ready to do so without having to strip first. But it also means you have to be careful not to scratch the aluminum while trying to clean it.

Don't use any steel wool or any of those green plastic scrub pads on it. Just get some dishwashing detergent or car wash detergent and wash it using a wool or terry car wash pad or mitt. There's no problem using mineral spirits if it helps to remove some residues.

[JrnymnJay]

I second Steve's cautions and mild detergent recommendations.

In my experience, a nylon Libman scrub brush helps with residue without scratching.

However, test scrub a small spot first on yours...the skins can vary.