How to clean the skin

dufferin · 08-04-2006, 12:32 PM

hi you guys,
what kind of product do you use to clean up the skin of your AS.
Mine is a Overlander 1975, and the clear coat is not in bad shape, but I'd like to know if I can make it more bright,
thanks in advance,

Condoluminum · 08-04-2006, 12:45 PM

If you use the search tab above and look for Walbernize or wax or clearcoat, you'll find a series of discussion threads... Many owners loyally use Walbernize products, which are often sold at airstream dealers. Others have tried and used different products... Feel free to follow their recommendations, or try something new and join the debate...

John McG

uwe · 08-04-2006, 01:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dufferin

hi you guys,
what kind of product do you use to clean up the skin of your AS.
Mine is a Overlander 1975, and the clear coat is not in bad shape, but I'd like to know if I can make it more bright,
thanks in advance,

You know, I found that just giving the trailer a really good bath and then Walbernizing it does miracles for it's "10ft" look. ( 10 feet away)
I also found that scrubbing the window frames to a bright luster and cleaning the wheels and tires really good makes a huge difference in the overall appearance. If you really want to score points, then do a major cleanup on the tongue, propane tanks and bumper area, and your trailer is sure to catch all kinds of compliments.
I have attached a few "before and after" pictures of my first trailer, a 1971 Tradewind. This might be a lot more work than you bargained for, but it really spruces up an otherwise "ugly" trailer.

dufferin · 08-04-2006, 04:03 PM

great job,
is that walbernize product?
and which one,
looks really good,
congratulation

uwe · 08-04-2006, 04:07 PM

No, Walbernize is a protective wax that is favored for older Airstream finishes. It goes on just like waxing a car, wax on-wax off, one panel at a time.
I just wanted to show an example of how how easy it is to make an old bucket look like something desirable. ( not meaning to say that your trailer is an old bucket - I am referring to mine)
I used primer and paint that is available at Home Depot on this one. You can also use better products, such as POR 15 etc.

dufferin · 08-04-2006, 04:12 PM

I was looking for POR 15 in Canada but I do have a hard time to find it,
and sometime you just don't see evidence, as I am writing, I am thinking of the fact that one of my neighbourg own a Classic Car Magazine, as soon as I am home, I will ask him...
And again it looks good,
what kind of paint remover did you use on the frame, if it's something special,

uwe · 08-04-2006, 04:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dufferin

I was looking for POR 15 in Canada but I do have a hard time to find it,
and sometime you just don't see evidence, as I am writing, I am thinking of the fact that one of my neighbourg own a Classic Car Magazine, as soon as I am home, I will ask him...
And again it looks good,
what kind of paint remover did you use on the frame, if it's something special,

Try their website www.por15.com

I di dnot use an y stripper on the tongue. I cleande briefly, wirebrushed loose paint, and then sanded everything. Teh close -up shows that I did not even do a very deep sanding job, just scuffing enough to make the paint stick. My technique can easily be improved upon, is what I am saying. But it lasted really well, still looked great when I sold the trailer in 2005.

rebel beck · 08-04-2006, 05:25 PM

I also like the liquid glass do a search and you will find alot of post and it is safe for clear coat. It is available at Auto Zones. To me it last longer then the ubove mentioned. As you will find out we all have our little quirks we like.

dufferin · 08-05-2006, 06:28 AM

I took a closer look to the Walbernize products and it seams that they're not recommanded for clearcoat finishes...
and my 75 overlander has clearcoat...
so should I use it?

uwe · 08-05-2006, 08:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dufferin

I took a closer look to the Walbernize products and it seams that they're not recommanded for clearcoat finishes...
and my 75 overlander has clearcoat...
so should I use it?

I learned that their RV Super Seal is safe to use.
However, it's not the only RV wax that works well, as others have stated.
My 1971 had clear coat, and it cleaned and protected what was left of it quite well.

Frank S · 08-05-2006, 12:36 PM

Hi uwe--I really like the way you spruced up the tongue, propane tanks, and rear overhang--looks great, and very professional. I have used a less sophisticated method. Wire brush loose paint and rust. Spray with aluminum or sliver spray can paint. I usually load up on the paint when WalMart has them for $1, and carry a can for touch up, which can be done at any time.--Frank S