58 overlander pan repair/replace

[58airstream]

I have a 58 overlander that I inherited which is in decent shape all original but the pan area needs a lot of attention I think it needs to be completely replaces. Has anyone had experience of removing the pan with out taking the shell off? I am looking for a little guidance I am mechanically inclined but never have work with aluminum and rivets before. This airstream was my brothers before he passed away so I really would like to keep it but not spend a ton of money fixing it up. Thanks you for any helpful input.

[Bubba L]

If it the belly pan you’re referring to, it is riveted to the C-channel then the outer skin riveted through the belly pan edge and into the channel. You may want to cut the belly pan out about two feet from the outer edge. Vintage Teailee Supply has the large head belly pan rivets. Good luck

[dbj216]

You are wise to simply replace the belly pan. You gotta jack up the trailer preferably on a hard surface and make sure it is stable. Your vintage Overlander belly pan does wrap around the outriggers and is attached to the C channel. I have replaced 4 belly pan in my Airstream life. It is hard work, but very doable. And it give you the opportunity to rake out all the old smelly fiberglass insulation, examine the frame and make any repairs needed, brush off any rust and paint the frame, and then maybe install proper waste water tanks. We call it jumping down a rabbit hole as one thing leads to another.

Here are some photos of my 66 Trade Wind 24' belly pan project. Just to give you an idea of what it looks like under there. Belly pan aluminum is 5052 and available from Kansas City Air Parts. Look them up in the internet. They are a good supplier in my view.

David