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07-23-2017, 07:24 PM
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#21
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Rivet Master
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Georgetown
, Texas
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 796
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Thank You
Quote:
Originally Posted by dames7
Love you mirror, how did you attach to the door?
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Thank you. We purchased the mirror at Ross. I attached the mirror at each of the 4 corners with very short screws (to ensure they didn't penetrate through the other side of the bathroom door.
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07-23-2017, 07:25 PM
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#22
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4 Rivet Member
2015 25' Flying Cloud
GILBERT
, Arizona
Join Date: Jan 2015
Posts: 377
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Thank you.
__________________
David & Nancy Ames
WBCCI # 9403 -- AIR # 95597
2015 FC 25' RB
2013 Chevy Tahoe LTZ
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07-23-2017, 07:27 PM
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#23
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Rivet Master
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Georgetown
, Texas
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 796
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Thank You For all of the Contributions to the Thread
Keep the ideas coming ... I'm enjoying reading about each of your improvements and it's stimulating lots of ideas for our Airstream.
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07-24-2017, 02:46 AM
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#24
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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Love everyone's ideas! Thanks for sharing. We have a 2016 FC FB Twin Beds...yeah, it's a passion killer but wife and I get creative! [emoji57] We've made some upgrades and say, improvements that make our AS even more enjoyable-if that's even a possibility! Here's a punch list...
Canopy with side curtains. City code prohibits a "rigid" material canopy. Raised the height by adding poles. Anchored feet to concrete. Joints at the top didn't use bolts to keep together so I used stainless cables and turnbuckles running the length at top to keep it from possibly getting loose. To service or wash, created a roll up system on fence side and the rear.
Propane storage-added a propane lock. Also use a smart Battery Tender that I attached to wall with 3M Command picture hanging Velcro.
Love to have lithiums but until then, replaced factory batteries with two 6 volt golf cart batteries wired in series. Haven't had a problem charging or draining these batteries since. Also added a lock to battery storage cover and a battery disconnect switch.
Upgraded to 16" Sendel wheels and Michelin tires. Also Tire Minder TPMS. Attachment 1
Fastway Automatic Flip Jack Foot and Proven Industries coupler lock.
Added a lock to refrigerator access panel and a screen to keep yellow jackets, and the like, out.
Fan-Tastic Fan cover to be able to leave open during rain. Changed out sewer cover with one that also has a hose attachment. I have a sewer access at the top of our driveway that I can access when servicing and need just a hose for grey water. Attachment 1
Got a lot more...signing off for now. Happy travels!
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-24-2017, 03:36 AM
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#25
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-24-2017, 04:10 AM
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#26
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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Some more goodies to share...
My wife enjoys the look of the portholes in the galley and didn't like covering them with the Oceanair. So we purchased CloZures from Zarcor Solutions. They slide back and forth. Kind of hard to see the difference in the photos because of outside canopy curtain was down and it's white too. The upper shutter is open. We get to enjoy the look of the windows with privacy when we want it. Planning on getting one for porthole in bedroom.
Wife thought galley toe kick looked unfinished. So I installed an aluminum one to match sink toe kick.
Squeegeeing the shower door was a pain. Especially since there is no door "water gutter" at the bottom. No matter how much we squeegee, water always dripped onto the bath rug or floor when you open it. Wife's solution-shower rod and a clear shower curtain liner. Close it when showering, and voila! door (and floor) stays dry!
Installed an adjustable water flow valve to shower hose to conserve water even more when needed.
Reading lights are blinding! Found a clear plastic material at Joann's craft store. Cut out circles that fit over lens. Then sanded material to desired darkness. You could use a tinted material if desired but we wanted to keep the white light.
Added cedar to double wardrobe and lined bottom of bedroom lockers, below beds, and two other wardrobe closets.
Our twin bed mattresses used to have about a 3-4" overhang on the platform. Very uncomfortable when you're sitting on the edge. Feels like you're falling off. Removed old platform. Moved it out to better support mattress. Cut plywood to fit between original platform and wall. Also replaced foam moulding strip between wood and wall.
Had a custom mirror installed inside bathroom door. Added Command hooks above. Great to hang towel and a robe. Leave this door open when showering so that everything you need is right there when you need it.
Keep on sharing ideas![emoji851]
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-24-2017, 04:17 AM
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#27
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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One last thing...changed exhaust vent lights to LED.
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-24-2017, 05:46 AM
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#28
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Rivet Master
2019 27' Flying Cloud
Kansas City
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2014
Posts: 1,967
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4 Riviteers,
Thanks so much for your posts.
Would you elaborate on the twin bed platform modifications, possibly with pictures?
We just got our rig about 6 weeks ago, and that overhang is something that we would like to address. We added a roll of shelf liner (that tacky rubbery type) to keep the mattress better in place. But your overhang platform correction is the best fix I think.
Could you post a picture of the platform without the mattress? Did you use wood screws to attach, or some other method?
The electrical outlet covers look fantastic. I also like the reading light fix.
And I also wanted to know about the added exterior locks. We had problems with our outdoor locks on our pervious Airstream. What looks did you use and where did you source them?
Thanks in advance
Piggy Bank
__________________
Piggy Bank
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07-24-2017, 06:52 PM
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#29
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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Forgot to add...
Had a 50 amp plug installed on AS storage side. Now we can use both air conditioners if we had to cool down interior quickly to aid the refrigerator getting cold for an outing. Attachment 290343
Installed a 55 amp Progressive Converter/Charger w/ built-in charge wizard and remote pendent.
Installed Simple Human soap/lotion dispensers in bathroom and shower with VHB tape. These bad boys haven't fallen off yet! We have a drill-a-hole-phobia. [emoji23]
Keep sharing the ideas!
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-24-2017, 08:07 PM
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#30
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Dreamin Bout Airstreaming
2019 27' Globetrotter
Savannah
, Georgia
Join Date: Jun 2015
Posts: 14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bobbo
The only real change I have made to my FC 23' FB is to change out the converter/charger. The trailer came with a Parallax 8355. That is a single stage battery killer. Even before I took delivery of our new trailer, I had a 3 stage Progressive Dynamics 4655 sitting in the garage waiting. The Parallax never even made the first camping trip.
Changing it out is simple. Remove 2 wires from the AC breaker panel, a HOT and a NEUTRAL. Remove 2 wires from the 12v DC fuse board, a HOT and a GROUND. Slide out the old converter and slide in the new. Attach 2 wires to the 12v DC fuse board, a HOT and a GROUND. Attach 3 wires to the AC breaker panel, a HOT, a NEUTRAL and a GROUND.
You need the charge wizard. The unit comes with a replacement 12v DC circuit board with the charge wizard control if you want to swap out the board. I did. You can also buy an optional charge wizard pendant instead of swapping out the board.
That is the entire process.
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I'm in the process of doing this now. Can't wait to get it done and be able to relax a bit when it comes to battery issues.
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07-24-2017, 10:09 PM
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#31
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Piggy Bank
4 Riviteers,
Thanks so much for your posts.
Would you elaborate on the twin bed platform modifications, possibly with pictures?
We just got our rig about 6 weeks ago, and that overhang is something that we would like to address. We added a roll of shelf liner (that tacky rubbery type) to keep the mattress better in place. But your overhang platform correction is the best fix I think.
Could you post a picture of the platform without the mattress? Did you use wood screws to attach, or some other method?
The electrical outlet covers look fantastic. I also like the reading light fix.
And I also wanted to know about the added exterior locks. We had problems with our outdoor locks on our pervious Airstream. What looks did you use and where did you source them?
Thanks in advance
Piggy Bank
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Hi Piggy Bank~
Congrats on your new piglet! Nice to see you like my bed modification. We love the change because it's one less stressor that makes traveling more enjoyable. Here's what I did for each side:
Attachment 290369
Unscrewed the original platform and moved it outwards to where the mattress would be fully supported underneath.
Purchased stain grade plywood and cut a piece that would fit between original plywood and wall. Used stain grade plywood because surface is smoother and won't snag mattress. Also purchase 3/4" self adhesive foam insulation that will fit between new piece and the wall.
Fit the new piece against the wall, then place original piece in place to check for fit. Make any adjustments. Now remove original piece. Cut to length a strip of insulation that runs the full length of new plywood. Stick it to wall where the side of plywood meets the wall.
I repurposed the screws taken out of original piece and used 3/4" wood screws for the rest. With new piece in place, take note where the wood frame is underneath to screw in plywood. After attaching new piece, place original piece into place and attach.
I rounded the corner at the foot of each bed for safety reasons. Since my wife usually makes the beds, she's been stabbed and splintered a few times by this corner. She also suggested sanding the exposed edges or even placing a rubber edge along that stretch.
Another suggestion is buying Aire Flow Moisture Barrier to prevent mold and moisture underneath mattresses. This is on our to-do list.
Battery storage cover lock.
Refrigerator exterior access panel.
Both these locks were on the shelf and purchased at Camping World.
This is what the lock looks like on the inside.
It's been my pleasure helping out a fellow Airstreamer. Hope it's been helpful! Good luck customizing your little piglet![emoji4]
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-24-2017, 10:11 PM
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#32
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Piggy Bank
4 Riviteers,
Thanks so much for your posts.
Would you elaborate on the twin bed platform modifications, possibly with pictures?
We just got our rig about 6 weeks ago, and that overhang is something that we would like to address. We added a roll of shelf liner (that tacky rubbery type) to keep the mattress better in place. But your overhang platform correction is the best fix I think.
Could you post a picture of the platform without the mattress? Did you use wood screws to attach, or some other method?
The electrical outlet covers look fantastic. I also like the reading light fix.
And I also wanted to know about the added exterior locks. We had problems with our outdoor locks on our pervious Airstream. What looks did you use and where did you source them?
Thanks in advance
Piggy Bank
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I'm resubmitting a photo that the site didn't accept.
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-25-2017, 05:35 AM
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#33
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Rivet Master
2019 27' Flying Cloud
Kansas City
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2014
Posts: 1,967
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4 riveteers,
Thanks for the detailed info. I imagine we will get to these updates during the winter/spring when it's cooler to do the work.
I have a question about the locks. Would you say that they are similar in build and quality to the factory locks on the outside storage compartments, or are they better? I ask because we had some problems on our other airstream with the locks failing, and we have been unsure on how to improve the factory locks.
Piggy Bank
__________________
Piggy Bank
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07-25-2017, 11:40 PM
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#34
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4 Rivet Member
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Manteca
, California
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 388
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Piggy Bank
4 riveteers,
Thanks for the detailed info. I imagine we will get to these updates during the winter/spring when it's cooler to do the work.
I have a question about the locks. Would you say that they are similar in build and quality to the factory locks on the outside storage compartments, or are they better? I ask because we had some problems on our other airstream with the locks failing, and we have been unsure on how to improve the factory locks.
Piggy Bank
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Piggy Bank~
So not to get confused with my response, when you say "factory locks on the outside storage compartments", I'm thinking they are the outside storage "lockers", not the outside access compartments e.g. outside shower door. Also, I'm referring to our AS which is a 2016 FC 27 fb twin.
How were your locks failing? All outside locks? What year was your other AS?
My opinion is that the factory locks on the exterior storage lockers are better than what we purchased. Those factory locks are a complete different design and they are installed into a double walled material (the locker door and the body). We did not replace any exterior storage locker locks. We have not had any issues with any outside locks except our deadbolt on our entry door...but that's a whole other can of worms. We maintain the locks by keeping them clean and lubricated.
I believe the locks we purchased to replace the exterior simple turn knobs are better than the factory locks like on the fresh water tank door. Those factory locks have a simple clip on the inside to keep them in place. The locks we purchased uses a thin, threaded nut (or washer). The nut is a bit more substantial than the clip.
Reminder that we replaced the simple turn knobs with locks on the battery compartment door and exterior refrigerator access panel only. We installed these locks to prevent, say children, from injuring themselves (there's a pilot light inside, sharp edges, wiring, etc) and theft deterrent. We probably won't change the locks on the exterior shower door or the fresh water tank door. We figured if there isn't temptation to open a door that has a simple turn knob, it's less likely a child will want to open it.
Here's a picture of one of the locks we purchased and installed on the exterior refrigerator access panel.
Hope that helps. Happy travels!
__________________
2016 27 Flying Cloud FB
2005 GMC Yukon XL 2500 4x4, Equal-i-zer Hitch, 4.10 axle ratio.
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07-26-2017, 12:08 AM
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#35
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3 Rivet Member
Seattle
, Washington
Join Date: Aug 2014
Posts: 147
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2016 27' Flying Cloud - We Made Some Changes
Will have to post pictures at some other date (our Airstream is off at the dealer getting a round of minor warranty work done).
I made similar changes to our twin bed platforms but instead of moving the existing plywood out, I made extensions out of birch plywood and attached aluminum angles on the outside edge as well. My extensions are only 48" long, so run from the nightstand to about 10" from the end of the bed. Extensions are about 10" wide and overhang the original platform by ~3". That gave me plenty of material to fasten into the original platform with screws and construction adhesive since it is cantilevering out there. I found it interesting that the two beds had different overhang distances from the factory.
The aluminum angle I used to keep the mattresses from sliding off the platform is a huge upgrade. I first tried anti-slip mats like others have tried but that didn't seem to work.
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07-26-2017, 08:24 PM
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#36
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Rivet Master
2019 27' Flying Cloud
Kansas City
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2014
Posts: 1,967
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 4riveteers
Piggy Bank~
So not to get confused with my response, when you say "factory locks on the outside storage compartments", I'm thinking they are the outside storage "lockers", not the outside access compartments e.g. outside shower door. Also, I'm referring to our AS which is a 2016 FC 27 fb twin.
How were your locks failing? All outside locks? What year was your other AS?
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Our other Airstream was a Bambi Sport 22. It has 1 outside storage locker, curbside, at the front (under the bed).
We would lock it and unlock it with the keys provided with the trailer. But it was easy to put the key in "wrong", as it fit either way. Also the fresh water fill key was not the right key, but it would "fit" in the storage locker lock.
After about a year, lo and behold one day the locker is locked and it won't unlock.
Luckily it was when we had just returned and were putting the rig away when this happened. So we weren't stranded without access to our needed items.
We google and asked here, and there had been others with this problem.
Eventually my husband towed the trailer to a real locksmith (side note--this must be a great profession as these guys only work 9-5 Mon-Fri). They were able to work on the lock for over 20 minutes and finally got it to open. They said that the cheap-o keys that came with our rig would fit in either the "right" way or the "wrong" way, but would only turn the lock if inserted the "right" way, and that this had messed jammed it up, so to speak. They cut us new, better keys that were keyed on either side so there wasn't a "right" way. We though we had the problem solved.
Then about a month later, I mistakenly inserted a similar-looking key that went to our cable lock for our bikes into the lock on the Airstream storage compartment. The entire lock cylinder just came out stuck to the key.
We decided that there was a bigger risk of being stranded with our needed stuff locked in the compartment with us unable to get it out than there was for our stuff to get taken. So we never fixed it.
But now we have a different trailer, and there are more storage compartments, and more locks, and a lot more things stored there. We are still a bit skeptical of the locks due to our experience with the other unit. (the locks appear to be the same).
Has anyone changed them out to something more reliable?
__________________
Piggy Bank
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07-26-2017, 09:08 PM
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#37
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Rivet Master
2017 23' Flying Cloud
Parker
, Colorado
Join Date: Oct 2016
Posts: 1,772
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Frank, how did you order that drawer handle?
__________________
Thanks,
Troutboy
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07-27-2017, 09:16 AM
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#38
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4 Rivet Member
2016 26' Flying Cloud
London
, Ontario
Join Date: May 2012
Posts: 280
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dmc...
"The aluminum angle I used to keep the mattresses from sliding off the platform is a huge upgrade. I first tried anti-slip mats like others have tried but that didn't seem to work."
What is the size of the aluminum angle product you used? 1"x1"? Thanks.
__________________
You're a long time underground!
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07-30-2017, 06:32 PM
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#39
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Rivet Master
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Georgetown
, Texas
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 796
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4riveteers
Great ideas! Thanks so much for sharing.
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07-30-2017, 06:44 PM
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#40
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Rivet Master
2016 27' Flying Cloud
Georgetown
, Texas
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 796
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Troutboy
Frank, how did you order that drawer handle?
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Airstream won't sell the door hardware direct so we purchased it through the Airstream dealer (Foley RV) and they shipped it to us. So any Airstream dealer can order the hardware for you. It didn't cost very much (I think it was less than $10 including shipping).
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