Questions on replacing exterior outlet, reflector, & mystery electric socket

[dgreen78]

Hello, I own a 59 Tradewind and have some questions about some mystery parts. I have what looks to be an electric socket but I don't know what it would be used for?



I also have a reflector in the front (street side) corner that is clear. I looked around at other 50's trailers and have yet to see another with a clear reflector on the front corner. Anyone know the purpose of this? Should it be clear?



And lastly I have an exterior outlet that is falling apart street side just aft of the entry door. After inspection it looks like the latch is coming apart and I am not sure how it keeps water out as it is not air tight and I see no gaskets? Should I restore this piece or replace with a newer version?




Thanks guys!

[J. Morgan]

I don't know what the twistlock outlet was used for, hopefully not a "power in" socket because the cord would be way dangerous.

The reflector used to be red but the sun bleached out the color.

The second outlet can be fixed with a new cover.

[cwf]

What JMorgan said ^^**^^

As JM states, the first one looks like it came from Dr. Frankensteins laboratory and spare parts emporium... It also doesn't appear watertight.

[Phoenix]

The first photo is a 15-amp twist-lock receptacle. (Besides finding replacements on the Internet, it appears to be stamped in the metal mounting hardware on the part.

The second photo is a white reflector. Just guessing; a PO probably added it, perhaps to be able to locate the Airstream or doorway, in the dark. Prior to a 1968 change in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108, a lot of vehicles had white turn signals and reflectors on the front.

Regarding the last photo, it's up to you to decide if you want to clean up the original part. If you replace it, I suggest you look at replacement receptacles in a marine parts catalog or online (e.g., West Marine). Marine parts are usually made of stainless steel, and will look nicer and last much longer.