1966 Safari Cabinets - type of wood and advice...

[corinnedavid]

Hi all - we are in the process of getting our 1966 Safari road ready. The prior owners did some improvements, and left work for us too. My question is in regards to the wood cabinets. The frames look like blonde wood to me, but the doors are clearly made of oak.

What type of wood was commonly used in the original cabinets? I'm considering refinishing the frames and replacing the tired and water damaged oak doors. I'd like to stay true to the original cabinet wood, if possible. Also wondering what can one do to recreate the 1950s blonde finish.

When we first brought home the trailer we cleaned and oiled the wood. But now it's time to replace the cabinet doors, reupholster the cushions and swap out the curtains. All new and fresh, but striving for an original look. Advice appreciated!!!

Thanks, Corinne


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[grantnovak]

I don't have advice for types of wood but if you're going to upgrade your hardware I am looking for two cabinet latches for my '66 globtrotter. I suspect your hardware is the same but can't see the latches in your pics. Are you swapping in New hardware?

-grant

[mimiandrews]

We have the same wood in our '66 Safari. Someone here on the forums helped me identify it as elm. I'm no expert on woods, but what they said about the tiny grain in the wood made sense to me.

Good luck with your trailer. I'd like to see more pics.

[Shacksman]

From years of working with veneers, I can tell you that is Elm. Other woods were used at the time but lots of Elm was available in the late 60's early 70's.