'77 Overlander Gaucho Question

[ShadyBill47]

I have begun repairs/restorations/upgrades to a new to me 27' Overlander. I have a question regarding the front gaucho.

Is there anything that helps support the back of the gaucho when it is in the bed configuration? All I see is the univolt cover and this does not seem sturdy enough to support anything.

If my photos attached correctly, can anyone tell me what the three holes may have been for originally?

Thanks for your input.

[dbj216]

Hi ShadyBill: I must say Airstream gauchos weren't built for stout. Maybe they were built for lightweight. My 75 Overlander has an aluminum gaucho framework that provides support in the bed position. But it was simply screwed to the interior skins with sheet metal screws. The whole thing was rather flimsy in my view.

So I rebuilt it so it would provide good support both sitting and sleeping. I think you just gotta figure how how the thing works and provide the necessary support. Those plastic corner pieces in the photos aren't the answer.

I might add my gaucho had three cushions, a seat bottom, a seat backrest, and a "filler" cushion for under the window. The seat backrest and this filler cushion had 1/2" plywood in them as a stiffener to bridge the aluminum framework.

I just play around and build what's needed to make it work better.

David

[dbj216]

Me again ShadyBill: You might give thought to starting a "project thread" for your Overlander renovation. It is a good way to "blog" your activities and invite comments and seek advice as you move forward, such as your gaucho question.

This is the right Forum and sub-forum for such a thread. A lot of Overlander enthusiasts lurk here with their projects and their questions. I think it is better than the more detailed forums such as plumbing, electrical, axles, subfloors and the like.

Up to you. It would be fun for me to follow along with your project.

David