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LLB21 · 05-19-2003, 10:01 PM

I'm about ready to get my Bambi polished. I have heard there are a couple of places in the West that do airplanes too. Does anyone have any recommendations?

The prices I have heard can really vary. How much should I expect to pay. By the way, my skin is in good shape.

overlander64 · 05-20-2003, 06:25 AM

While my experience with professional polishing wasn't on the West coast, I did have a reputable shop perform the service in Ohio. Part of the cost variation can be whether you choose to plasticoat the coach or plan on semi-annual or more frequent polish maintenance.

My '64 Overlander was stripped, polished and plasticoated by the Ruth's of P & S Trailer Service in Helena, OH. When the cost of some extra labor and machine time to remedy a previous owner's failed attempt at polishing; my overall cost was just a little more than $175 per linear foot measuring from the coupler to the rear bumper.

The project was completed just prior to the beginning of last season, and I am still absolutely satisfied with every aspect of the job.

Good luck with your search for a professional polisher.

Kevin

Diana Langley · 05-20-2003, 07:01 AM

In just 5 hours I will be hitching up my 20' Globetrotter and towing her up to Riverside to be stripped, polished and re-clearcoated.
I was quoted a price over the phone of between $2,700-$3,200. I'll get the exact price when the guy can see what he's dealing with.
I should be able to pick her up in a month or so.

It's a lot of money, but I don't have the time, skill, location or equipment to do it.

Inland RV Center, In · 05-20-2003, 10:17 AM

Diana.

The "polishing guru," in Riverside will do a great job for you.

He has been polishing aircraft for years and recently got into the Airstream polishing as well.

His prices are justified by the finished look.

We have seen his work on aircraft, and 17 to 34 foot trailers.

A word of caution.

When you pick your trailer up, make sure you wear a pair of very good sunglasses. The reflection from your (new) trailer will pleasantly amaze you.

You will also be able to see some of his Airstream work in progress when your at his shop.

Andy
inlandrv.com

63flyingcloud · 05-20-2003, 10:31 AM

Andy,

Your staff referred me to him, too. When I talked to him last week, he mentioned that part of the process is an acid bath. Is there any cause for concern about that? I seem to recall some prior comments that a trailer which has been acid washed has the potential to be a "perpetual leaker."

Thanks for any clarification you can provide.

Tom

63flyingcloud · 05-20-2003, 10:36 AM

Diana--

Check your PM.

Tom

Inland RV Center, In · 05-20-2003, 11:08 AM

Tom.

Barry Gregory, the "polishing guru" uses a cleaning acid only. This same acid is used on aircraft with FAA approval.

What he uses does not "etch", it cleans only.

He states that it assists in getting the metal "super clean," before polishing.

Andy
inlandrv.com

63flyingcloud · 05-20-2003, 11:19 AM

Thanks for the clarification, Andy.

Sasquatch · 06-18-2003, 09:19 AM

It cost me about $7 per linear foot to polish mine.

It also cost me about 45 hrs of hard work, sore muscles, dirty shop, ruined shirt, pants, shoes, etc. If I was going to do it again I would still do it myself because I'm a tightwad and I get a lot of personal satisfaction out of DIY projects. It would be a lot easier and quicker the second time around because I learned some tricks during the experience.

I know you will be pleased with the new shine!

Robert L. Cornute · 06-18-2003, 03:10 PM

I have been in contact with the Ruth's in Ohio they have quoted me a price of 4500 (+-) for my 31' International which includes stripping and polishing of the top to the glass line and the front and back caps. The job will take approx. 7 to 10 days to complete. I am looking to take it in in September after the NY State Rally in Lockport which will take me half the way there. I think the price is fair! RLC WBCCI/VAC

Diana Langley · 06-18-2003, 03:28 PM

I work 7 days a week and rarely have more than a two hour block of time to call my own during the day.

Time is money, but for me, money is time. I have a housekeeper and gardener because if I have an hour or two to spare in the day, I don't want to spend it cleaning house or mowing the lawn. I'm not rich, I just made a few priorities so I don't feel rushed, burned out, or let things get out of hand around the place.

I don't mind paying to have someone professionally polish my trailer. I can't imagine getting started on that project and being able to have time to finish it up. Trust me..... I have enough half finished projects around that I know I'll never get to!

I don't have the expertise, the equipment, or the place to do the job.

Paying a professional to polish my trailer is the only way it would be done. It ain't cheap, but it's money well spent for me.