New end cap bow for '66 Tradewind

[steamgauge]

I have been working a a '66 tradewind for a couple of years that is finally starting to see some progress. I have had the frame sandblasted which revealed more damage than I expected. I have assembled the parts needed to make the repairs and noticed the new outriggers are 1/4" longer the the originals, is this a problem? Do I have to cut them to make sure the skin does not rub on the steel once I drop the shell back on the frame?


I also ordered new end cap bows like everything else the design has changed slightly. The new design is 1/2" wider than the original. With the track to hold the floor I will need to pull the sides in as the overall width of the piece is about 4" more than the original. Anyone have some thoughts on the best way to squeeze it together?

[57Vintage]

The outriggers can be cut to the proper length and welded on, not a problem. I had to do the same when I rebuilt.

Regarding your bows I'm not sure what to recommend. Does the profile match the wall profile so its only wider? Is the top of the bow flatter? Photos would help. My bows (original) are spliced together at the center of the roof. Assuming yours are as well.

Photo is looking straight up at bows and splices circled.

[steamgauge]

Thanks for the info on the outriggers. It is the new floor bow that is wider. I am off to Harbor Freight to get a ratcheting strap to squeeze it onto the subfloor plywood I cut from the original floor bow

[57Vintage]

I misunderstood, thinking you were referring to the wall/ceiling ribs the outer and inner panels attach to. I would be cautious in trying to bend the floor channel bow. I believe its extruded and will probably not maintain its shape. If the curves are the correct shape, I'd just cut out a section from the middle where its straight.