Patch material ???

[oldiesel]

I have a couple of damaged places on the side pieces of the under belly that i would rather just put a new piece in than trying to repair the original.
The original measures about .020 thick,i looked on Aircraft Spruce and they have several different grades.Question is what grade should i use?

[Tom Nugler]

Checked the manual for my '72. I suspect the belly pan is the same for all years of this vintage.
The spec is 3004 aluminum, 0.024" thick.
I've used sheets from the hardware store with Tempro on the rear pan with no problems.

Tom

[dbj216]

I purchased my belly aluminum from Airparts in Kansas City. Nice folks to deal with, and you can order on line.

They sell a lot of aluminum sheeting, especially to aviation enthusiasts and Airstream restorers. They recommended 5052 H32 at .025 thick for belly pans. It is cheaper per foot, and easy to work with. I did both my 66 and 86 belly pans with this material, no problems noted.

It's my observation that the belly pan is not a structural member of the semi-monocoque construction. The belly pan provides a cover for the floor insulation and makes the trailer a bit more aerodynamic. The belly pan does do an admirable job of holding in moisture so or frames will rust faster.

David

[Melody Ranch]

Just go to any local sheet metal shop and get some aluminum sheet. They won't have 2024.....get whatever...its the belly pan, right? If it goes in the wrap areas try 5052 .030 ....it will polish up for you if needed.......the shop will (can) cut it to size for you too. You avoid freight this way too.

[oldiesel]

Thank for the help, i didnt find anything near where i live,now its just a matter of seeing who has the best price online.