Disconnecting the shell from the trailer frame

[DavidF]

So far I have removed the interior shell, plumbing, electrical wires, etc. from my '69 Caravel. Also, removed screws and bolts from the interior c-channel through the subfloor (which had much rot along the edges). Then I added interior supports between the sides and ends just above the bottom of the shell. And I have built two gantries for lifting the exterior shell off once I have freed it from the trailer frame.
I could use some suggestions about this next step. It seems that I only have to drill out the rivets between the exterior shell and the pan. Any thoughts about this final job before it's gantry time would be appreciated.

[markdoane]

There are usually a few hidden rivets at the corners that are not visible from the outside. You need to remove these before you lift the shell. Find them with a long putty knife.

[dbj216]

Hi DavidF. Welcome to Air Forums. You have jumped in with both feet. Your experiences will be valuable to others, so I hope you continue to participate on Air Forums with your Caravel project.

Back to the shell removal. And of course drill out the 30 odd rivets or so from the front plate. You have noticed them under the front window between the A frame members.

I have read you need to determine the corner radius of your subfloor before you lift the shell. You mentioned how rotted the wood is under the c channel. Make a luan template of the four corners of your trailer while the shell is still attached. Then you can use your luan template to cut the corners of your new subfloor. Your old subfloor will fall apart once the shell is off. I think Frank of Frank's Trailer Works does a nice job of explaining the template process.

David