71 Airstream Battery Compartment

[cole3444]

Has anyone removed their battery compartment and put a patch over the opening. If you have any pics I would appreciate it. I am currently doing a shell off restoration so easy access.

[rugjenkins]

Here are pics of my 75 argosy patch on the battery and water heater compartments. I'm going with a ventless battery and a propane tankless ventless water heater by excell.

[cole3444]

Rugjenkins,
Thanks for the pic, it looks like the Argosy and the Airstream 71/72 year battery boxes are made entirely different. Hopefully someone else will have done this mod to their Airstream.

[rugjenkins]

Actually they are made the same way I just didn't have a pic of it before I cut it out and patched. It was easier and more ascetically pleasing to make one big patch. What you see in my pic is my belly pan wrap being replaced at the same time. I revamped my belly wraps to underlap the shell. You probably have an upside down "u" looking hatch. Maybe someone will post another pic for you.

[Monza]

The upside down U hinged at the bottom, I think they are the same.
I'm also debating on what to do with mine, 72' tradewind, at the gutted out shell stage as well and batteries are not going there. Originally I was planning to put the whole hinged unit back. Thinking not lately, I can't think of any reason to keep an access door there?

What could the door be used for?

Rugjenkins, what are you doing for replacing the bottom trim rail that would be there? There's a small section on the door that would match the rail going around the bottom?

[Monza]

Rugjenkins did you spray foam the interior? Pics look like foam bits from spray foaming.

[rugjenkins]

Yes spray foamed for insulation. I do have the rub rails but I'm not sure I will reinstall. I recycled a 24 footer and have all the rub rails from that camper also. No worries

[cole3444]

Rugjenkins,
Thanks for the clarification I think I can get it patched up now.

[1973Argosy]

For what it's worth, plan on turning my empty battery compartment into an outdoor shower. Have hot and cold water available right behind the plastic case. I couldn't think of anything I'd store in such a small space. I have purchased all of the components for the project but haven't had a chance to get it done. Once I do I'll update with a picture.

[Monza]

Originally Posted by 1973Argosy

For what it's worth, plan on turning my empty battery compartment into an outdoor shower. Have hot and cold water available right behind the plastic case. I couldn't think of anything I'd store in such a small space. I have purchased all of the components for the project but haven't had a chance to get it done. Once I do I'll update with a picture.

Great idea, thanks I may do that as well!

[wamercer]

Originally Posted by cole3444

Has anyone removed their battery compartment and put a patch over the opening. If you have any pics I would appreciate it. I am currently doing a shell off restoration so easy access.

How did the shell off Reno go? I’m curious about doing one myself. Any links to what you referenced would be great if you have time.

[cole3444]

I have not finished my frame off yet due to weather and other projects. My first frame off was completed earlier and went well, learned a lot from great people on this site and how to do things easier and less expensive.