Another Airstream cover question

[JoleneAS]

Hello folks. I have a 76 Overlander that I am in the middle of doing a full monty restoration on. The finish on my Airstream is ugly and polishing the exterior is one of the last things I plan to do. I realize that it is discouraged to use a cover on Airstreams, but as I have faded, tarnished clear-coat that will eventually be stripped and polished anyways, would it really hurt to use a cover?

As it stands, I have just installed new subfloors treated with marine epoxy after treating the frame with POR15. I have not had a chance to scrape all of the old caulk from the interior to reseal all seams, and this may not be a task I complete before the rains start. I live in Portland, OR, so we get our share of rain throughout the year.

While my setup should be reasonably water resistance, I don't want to test the resilience to water if I don't have to.

Could I reasonably cover the trailer during this phase of the restoration?

[ghaynes755]

Only downside would be any dirt/grit/other abrasives getting under the cover and the wind grinding them into the actual aluminum. But if in a non windy location that might not occur.

[dbj216]

Hi JoleneAS: I see no harm in a cover considering where you are in your renovation process. I'd look for one that is on the "soft" side trying to avoid abrasion of the aluminum. Actually, my 75 Overlander has more damage to the exterior skins due to corrosion than scratches. Covering may keep the aluminum dryer.

Folks put covers on their expensive sports cars all the time.

David

[Airwave503]

Hey Jolene!

I'm also in PDX and came here with the same question. I also did the full shell off restore, POR-15, etc. etc. on my '61 Spaceliner. I've found snow camping up on Hood every weekend over the winter really messed up my polish job.

Sounds like fitting covers are not recommended. Maybe a temporary tarp tent?

Good luck with the rest of your project. It's been worth it all the way for us!