skin replacement

[jlester]

I need to have two of the large pieces of AL replaced on the outside and it is not something I know how to do so I am wanting to have it done. Would you take it to an autobody shop or a metal working/ welding type shop? Any suggestions would help. It is a 1962 Globetrotter

[Inland RV Center, In]

jlester.

Take it to a "trusted" Airstream dealer, that does metal work.

If by chance you need some of the segments, we have them.


Andy

[markdoane]

I would look for an aircraft repair person. Call around local airports to see who does airframe repair.

I found an 'architectural' sheetmetal company near me that i would trust, but that is just an accident; they are probably the only shop within 100 miles that could do the sort of thing. They build high end cupolas and fancy parts for $$$ homes and offices. There might be one in your area, check the phonebook. You would need to call them, then visit to see samples of their work, decide if the person is capable and interested in working on an airstream.

You could also prowl around the 'RV' aircraft websites to se if there are any hobby aircraft builders in your area. See http://www.vansaircraft.com/

I would avoid auto-body repair places, their technology is totally different.

[Ken J]

For more information on skin replacement see http://www.airforums.com/forum...ead.php?t=9362

There is lots of info there that should help you.

Ken

[jlester]

Thank you all very much for your assistance. I will look for an aircraft repair facility. I have also found a place in portland, or called vintage trailers. http://home.comcast.net/~vintage-trailers/But when I called the phone number it was the wrong number, so I guess I will keep looking for a company close to me that restores these things.

[sovereignrwe]

Having skins replaced at an AS dealer can be a pricey proposition. Sometimes a few skins can cost more than the purchase price of your trailer.

I would recommend including a dealer estimate along with other estimates to see what you are getting. If all goes well with the aircraft repair facility you might save some dough, but if things go South the dealer may be the better value for you.

Just thought I would offer my two cents.

[Inland RV Center, In]

As with anything, there is far more to replacement of the Airstream sheetmetal, "than price."

The proper replacement is by far, the foremost consideration. Then and only then, can you look at the cost.

All too often, the cheapest price, is also the worst quality of repair or replacement that a person gets.

Be cautious.

Metal replacement, begs for water leaks, if not done properly.

Andy

[sovereignrwe]

Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In

All too often, the cheapest price, is also the worst quality of repair or replacement that a person gets.

Be cautious.

An example supporting Andy's point: The Worst Polisher

The main point of my post was to recommend that you include both and make the judgement on value. The reality is that dealers do a bad job too sometimes as we are all human.

To emphasize another point in my post, if things go poorly with a dealer, there is a much greater chance that you will get things corrected and avoid the high cost Igor68 will shell out (no pun intended, ok maybe it was - just a little) fixing something done by a non-dealer.

Best of Luck making your decision!

[TomW]

Originally Posted by sovereignrwe

An example supporting Andy's point: The Worst Polisher...

My favorite post is this one.

Tom

[sovereignrwe]

Originally Posted by TomW

My favorite post is this one.

Tom

Agreed, another person "shelling" out the dough for repairs gone wrong.