For Moderator: resource library

[Eric H]

Just thinking out loud here, but what if a tab was created on the main forum page (or in the restoration section), or better yet some sort of list, which would include all the various products that are used in the restoration of an Airstream?
There could be some sort of review area, how much to buy to cover a certain trailer, how to apply, how to clean up, potential problems etc...even sources to get the products and reviews of the sources.
It always seems like I'm digging around the forums to find out what people use and what people think about this or that type of sealant or part, and then I have to source it. All of this is totally doable, but one library would really be a great resource.
To keep it fair I would imagine it would be like a wiki page, or moderated at least to keep advertising, or misleading reviews down.

Just throwing the idea against the wall...

[InsideOut]

Originally Posted by Eric H

Just thinking out loud here, but what if a tab was created on the main forum page (or in the restoration section), or better yet some sort of list, which would include all the various products that are used in the restoration of an Airstream?

Nice idea, but not really quantifiable. The problem is that there are countless "various products" that are used - many available at your local hardawre store and very rarely will people agree on anything around here! Check out the polishing or axle sections to see what I mean...everybody has ther own opinion on what's "best" and it changes over time. IMO, the best way to figure out whats going to work for you is:

1) research here in the categorized forums - most of the time, the same products will jump out at you as being the standard, although there will always be someone coloring outside the lines
2) ask questions of those that have done similar projects
3) look to VTS or Inland RV for the "standards" of replacement parts
4) meet-up with some other like-minded restoration folks at a nearby rally to get some first-hand demos and/or help

Shari

[Eric H]

Shari,
if you read the rest of the post you'll see that I wasn't talking about one "right product" that is put forth. I was talking about a LIBRARY where anyone could enter their favorite product and how they used it under headings such as: "Sealants" "Gaskets" "Trim" "Rust Prevention" etc etc etc... these could each be organized under larger headings such as "Frame" "Windows" Etc Etc.

At the moment we are all following this formula anyway by digging through mounds of threads on a specific part of the trailer, cobbling together peoples thoughts and reviews on products. The issues is that it's neither convenient or complete since it's tempting to stop digging since it takes so much time and you may miss something anyway. The result is that we don't find ALL of the options available and may end up using a product that's not the best for our application.

Of course there will be plenty of opinions BUT there already are, those opinions would just be organized and easily accessible.

Originally Posted by InsideOut

Nice idea, but not really quantifiable. The problem is that there are countless "various products" that are used - many available at your local hardawre store and very rarely will people agree on anything around here! Check out the polishing or axle sections to see what I mean...everybody has ther own opinion on what's "best" and it changes over time. IMO, the best way to figure out whats going to work for you is:

1) research here in the categorized forums - most of the time, the same products will jump out at you as being the standard, although there will always be someone coloring outside the lines
2) ask questions of those that have done similar projects
3) look to VTS or Inland RV for the "standards" of replacement parts
4) meet-up with some other like-minded restoration folks at a nearby rally to get some first-hand demos and/or help

Shari

[InsideOut]

I read your entire post the first time - and the other one you posted elsewhere in the same vein yesterday. My opinion & response are still the same.

As a former moderator, I know this idea was tossed around several times years ago. At the time, it was deemed to be too much work, hard to keep up to date and not viable. To keep the threads/posts in a particular format that is of a review nature rather than degenerating to a typical discussion or argument would be a moderator's nightmare.

Of course, if someone were willing to step up and oversee such a library, I'm sure you could offer to help.

Shari

[Eric H]

Sure thing. I would love to help. Glad you asked.

Here is how it should be set up:
It should be a database that divides up the trailer into it's main parts (much like the restoration area).
For example "Electrical"
Under this heading would be sub headings such as "shore power"
Under that heading there would be a form that anyone could fill out to show a product they used.
They would provide a title such as: "30 amp connector"
There would be the option for them to post pictures and a review. This would NOT begin a thread, just a single heading that could then be easily expanded by anyone to see.

Since you are a former moderator I assume you can provide passwords to so I can set this up?
Thanks.

[InsideOut]

Originally Posted by Eric H

Since you are a former moderator I assume you can provide passwords to so I can set this up?
Thanks.

Nope, gave those up when I turned in my moderator hat ~ I also forgot the secret handshake and gave up the enormous salary that went with the job.

Shari

[TouringDan]

Eric

Go for it. I aplaud your effort. Sounds like you know where you are going, so you get to lead the pack.

Dan

[Eric H]

Originally Posted by InsideOut

Nope, gave those up when I turned in my moderator hat ~ I also forgot the secret handshake and gave up the enormous salary that went with the job.

Shari

Ha! The secret aluminum handshake, I like it. It's not quite as tough as the steel handshake, but much more shiny.

It would be an interesting project to see what everyone uses and likes on their trailers, happy to help.

[InsideOut]

Originally Posted by Eric H

It would be an interesting project to see what everyone uses and likes on their trailers, happy to help.

Good luck if you decide to persue this ~

Shari

[Eric H]

Would like to, just need to find someone on here that has some pull ;-)