Adding Weight to AS

[LittleA]

I'm going to look at a mid 60's 26 ft AS that has been gutted. I've been told that the "floor has been beefed up". Not too sure what that means. Assuming the chassis under the floor looks decent how heavy of an item do you think I could add to either end of the AS without the fear of sagging or the end falling off? Thinking about a large stovetop.

If I do need to reinforce the chassis in a section or two can I get to that section from the under belly without taking the floor out or undoing the outer shell?

Thanks

[HowieE]

A common method of rebuilding the frame on the older trailers is to slide a new box beam inside the old frame and weld it at the ends

[CanoeStream]

Hi LittleA -- Hope you're enjoying the Forums!

Airstream's weights pdf page shows a 3950 curb weight for the '65 Overlander without options (eg, was an air conditioner standard or optional). Do you know what the weight of your gutted trailer might be? The difference between curb weight and gutted weight is going to be a prudent amount of cabinetry you can put back into the trailer. It's amazing how light the original-build compartments and furniture were. 1/2" ply for cabinetry isn't going to work out well unless you re-do axles and really look at all frame issues.

Unfortunately for this discussion, Airstream's page doesn't give GVWR limits for the mid-60s. Do you have a manual that shows that? I'd guess a payload of 700# plus or minus how much?

Putting a stove in the front will contribute more to tongue weight. That could be handled with some thought. I definitely wouldn't put anything heavy at the back of the trailer. The distance from the axles to a heavy object at back can get to be a long moment arm that could be very damaging going over normal road irregularities. This is why bicycles mounted on the back bumper isn't a good idea.

[Uberphotos]

LittA, what type of cabinetry are you planning on installing...as CanoeStream mentioned, modern cabinetry that you would find at Lowes of Home Depot is REAL heavy.

[LittleA]

I don't plan on having any traditional cabinets. It will be a kitchen with appliances, sinks and countertops.

I'm thinking about the stovetop at the front as it is the heaviest. And most of the rest closer to the middle on each side.

Is this feasible or is the back end (or another part) going to fall off? Can I strategically reinforce some parts of the chassis from underneath without ripping out the floor?