2 questions about the outside

BB 55 Bubble · 10-20-2006, 11:55 AM

First is this step original to a 1955 bubble? there are 2 pictures below, need a better angle just ask. Can a replacement be found or a replica?
Second look at the toung of this trailer It is all but jacked up. I have seen some simular parts have the trailer parts changed that much that I can not replace (with some grinding and welding) this with new ones?

InsideOut · 10-20-2006, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BB 55 Bubble

First is this step original to a 1955 bubble? there are 2 pictures below, need a better angle just ask. Can a replacement be found or a replica?

Yes, that looks like an original step. No, OEM replacements are not available that I am aware of. It doesn't look to be in too bad of shape, is it structurallty sound? If so, just cleaning it up and painting it with POR-15 will make it look better and protect it from rust.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BB 55 Bubble

Second look at the toung of this trailer It is all but jacked up. I have seen some simular parts have the trailer parts changed that much that I can not replace (with some grinding and welding) this with new ones?

Huh? Tongue...it doesn't look bad either. Maybe I don't understand the question...

Shari

BB 55 Bubble · 10-20-2006, 01:47 PM

The step works great! The frame for it is not so great, and the pull handle is a little worn. The guy that I am going to have do the welding thinks it is an easy fix; I was looking for some back up options.
The tong of the trailer is missing the lock handle release, it broke off The ball lock is about 50% its original size on the inside. The safety chain I do not think is so safe any more. My concern is that I will be investing a considerable amount of money into the trailer. I would hate to let this slide and watch my trailer pass me on the road!
Here are some pictures.

garthbf · 10-20-2006, 02:36 PM

I am not sure what the law is but... when I had a equipment trailer made several years back they said that they could not just weld the chain to the trailer. so they welded a D shaped metal tang on the each side of the A frame. then with a hole drilled in each you can put whatever size of chain on with a shackle.

TomW · 10-20-2006, 04:17 PM

I think the step is an incredibly good rebuild simply because of the diamond-plate steel present in your photos. My '67 Overlander has smooth plate-steel with traction strips. Additionally, the side pieces which provide a track for the step's action go all the way back to the frame member on mine.

Functionally, there is no reason to replace your step. If you have a desire for originalness, grind off the diamond pattern & stick on traction strips.

FWIW,
Tom

InsideOut · 10-20-2006, 04:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TomW

I think the step is an incredibly good rebuild simply because of the diamond-plate steel present in your photos.

<snip>

If you have a desire for originalness, grind off the diamond pattern & stick on traction strips.

The older ones had diamond plate...mine is almost identical & I am 100% sure it is original.

Maxwell's Step

Shari