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Xstream · 03-26-2009, 05:07 PM

I'm picking up a 53 FC this Saturday. It's serial number O 3099. I don't know how long it has been parked. Need any hints and tips on getting it on the road regarding the following: Tire pressure, wheel bearings inspection and repack, ball diameter, etc...

I am assuming that the lights are not working and will be using magnetic temporary setup. As for the brakes, I should be OK since I will be towing with a 1 ton pickup.

Thanks in advance and looking forward to the experience!

pbearsailor · 03-26-2009, 05:48 PM

Recently picked up my Caravanner which had been sitting a long long time.

We took tires mounted on our rims, Chevy/Toyota 6 bolt. If your is original, it will have split rims most likely and you probably won't be able to get anything done with them.

Didn't have working brakes either and we didn't look at the bearings. We were on a small island and were afraid we'd never get a new grease seal if we needed one, so we just went with what we had. Stopped several times to make sure the hubs were cool.

I'd have something in mind for securing windows and/or window frames. Big one is the door: I'd make sure I had some way of tying it shut as a backup to the lock.

We did temp lights as well.

Should be a 2 inch ball.

Took it slow and had no problems with the tow.

Welcome to the club: you must post pictures to maintain your membership!

cheers,
steve

Xstream · 03-29-2009, 09:20 AM

Thanks for the tips. After picking up one way temporary tags and gathering all the tools, I got the 'cloud' home safely with only a couple of minor issues. First, I jacked up the axle to check the wheels and noticed that all 12 lug nuts were loose. Also, the hubcaps practically fell out in my hands. I also had to make a quick trip out to get extensions for the temp tow lights. I routed the wires through the rear door and out the main door. With a 25' lead, I still needed two 4' extensions. I also greased up the zerk fittings and put air in the tires. After about ten miles down the road, I stopped and checked the torque on the lug nuts and the lights. All were fine. I found the tow quite easy using the 1 ton truck. Alot of people were lingering by to check out the shiny spectacle. It was nice to see clear through the windows to spot the tailgaters. Once I got home, the real work began. I had to remove a section of my fence to get it into the backyard. Now, I get to decide how to approach this project. Thanks again. Pics later...

Inland RV Center, In · 03-29-2009, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pbearsailor

Recently picked up my Caravanner which had been sitting a long long time.

We took tires mounted on our rims, Chevy/Toyota 6 bolt. If your is original, it will have split rims most likely and you probably won't be able to get anything done with them.

steve

Steve.

The proper wheels for Airstream trailers "must" have a minimum of 2600 pound ratings.

I don't believe the wheels you purchased have anything near that rating.

Underated wheels, will fail in service, by cracking around the the outside of the bolt pattern, just like a typical "junk yard wheel."

Andy