1989 Excella 1000 - Renovation Help Please

[jnohbots]

Hello Everyone!
I am a newly minted Airstream owner and about to embark on the renovation / demo. I purchased a 1989 Excella 1000 34'. It will require the "full monty". The trailer is rusted, belly has completely let go. Nothing new to you guys I am sure, but very intimidating for me. If someone was so inclined, I have a few questions:
1. Types, sizes and lengths of rivets (possibly a top notch brand if there is such a thing)
2. Is it worth restoring the frame or just having a new one built
3. Removing the shell: gantry or jacks
4. Axles - I need em' including suspension. This unit has 3
5. Tool suggestions - I am a quality person, id like to buy the right tool once
6. Windows - based on my research it is nearly impossible to replace the curved windows. Any thoughts on gaskets and general repair advice needed!
7. Awnings - This unit has Zip Dee awnings that need replacing, ideas?
8. Lifting the unit when installing new axles - do or dont? The clearance would be nice when towing through more rural areas, but will it affect stability?
9. Tow setup- anti-sway is a must. Suggestions on brands and styles

As you can probably tell by my neophyte questions I could use a lot of help. I thank you in advance for taking the time to read through and offer your support. If there is anything else I should be on the lookout for please let me know.

[Lance M]

Originally Posted by jnohbots

Hello Everyone!
I am a newly minted Airstream owner and about to embark on the renovation / demo. I purchased a 1989 Excella 1000 34'. It will require the "full monty". The trailer is rusted, belly has completely let go. Nothing new to you guys I am sure, but very intimidating for me. If someone was so inclined, I have a few questions:
1. Types, sizes and lengths of rivets (possibly a top notch brand if there is such a thing)
2. Is it worth restoring the frame or just having a new one built
3. Removing the shell: gantry or jacks
4. Axles - I need em' including suspension. This unit has 3
5. Tool suggestions - I am a quality person, id like to buy the right tool once
6. Windows - based on my research it is nearly impossible to replace the curved windows. Any thoughts on gaskets and general repair advice needed!
7. Awnings - This unit has Zip Dee awnings that need replacing, ideas?
8. Lifting the unit when installing new axles - do or dont? The clearance would be nice when towing through more rural areas, but will it affect stability?
9. Tow setup- anti-sway is a must. Suggestions on brands and styles

As you can probably tell by my neophyte questions I could use a lot of help. I thank you in advance for taking the time to read through and offer your support. If there is anything else I should be on the lookout for please let me know.

Hi and welcome. I'm surprised that no one has answered any of your questions yet. I'll answer a few.

1. You can start with the rivet kits that Vintage Trailer Supply sells. If you get to needing more, try Byler Rivet.

2. It depends on how badly rusted the frame is, but generally they can be salvaged. Sometimes it may be less expensive to have a new frame fabricated.

3. An overhead hoist works best, but I've used jacks and saw horses a few times.

4. There are many torsion axle suppliers. I've used Colin Hyde, Redneck Trailer (Dexter) and Rockwell American. Rockwell American is here in Texas, so that's what I used the most to save shipping costs. You can save the axle replacement until the trailer is ready for the road.

5. There are many opinions on brands of tools that are best. If you want to tool geek check out the forum garagejournal.com

6. Check out the 'windows and screens' and 'leaks, weatherstrips, gaskets...' sub forums.

7. There are many Zip-Dee dealers that would happily sell you repair parts and new fabric.

8. I've had both the stock ride height and about 1" raised ride height. The extra clearance is nice for entry/exit of gas stations without dragging the tail end etc. I would probably go with the increased height on a 34'

9. Hensley or ProPride are the best.

Good luck!