I have no skins! What are my choices?

[musicman74]

I bought my airstream completely bare. I would like to know my wall options after I install my insulation. Are they only Aluminum or Skins?

Question two: What do you guys suggest that can I use underneath my sub floor to protect it from rain, puddles, etc.?

[knowmercy]

Hello, I also have a 73 airstream and we found that our aluminum is 6061T6. It's got a slightly more matte finish than the 2024 clad aluminum. The skins are part of the structure so using either of those is an appropriate choice. The skins inside are done in varying sizes and if you bought new aluminum you'd be throwing a lot of material away. I want to say the sections are sized (from the floor) 3'5", 25", 3'2" 25" or the thereabouts. Most sheets are 48" or 60" You probably want to get the 48" sheets because they're easier to work with IMO.



Not really sure what you're looking to figure out with the subfloor? We coated ours with west systems 105 epoxy to protect the wood. The glue in our plywood is marine grade rated for full submersion. Good luck, looking forward to seeing how your project comes along!

[musicman74]

Great, thanks for the info. Quick question, where would be the best place to purchase both the skin or aluminum sheeting?

[knowmercy]

I've been very happy with airparts inc. They know shipping rates and how many can go in a box. The guy was very polite and helpful with me on the phone. I want to say we paid $35 for a 4' roll. I'm not sure the rates for where you are, but they should be listed on there. The 2024 stuff can be had in longer lengths. From memory the longest ones in ours are 20' and change.

[HiHoAgRV]

Check your local metal suppliers. I’ve bought 3003 .032 thick in 4’ x 10’ sheets for under $60 here in town.
It’s not horrible to recreate the sides and ceiling. I suggest using heavy paper to template the ends.
If your end caps are missing there are several folks here who have scratch built multi panel ones. You need lots of clecos!

I’ve been using marine epoxy to encapsulate the flooring before I bolt it down. Seal all of the bolt holes and it should last forever.

[DavidsonOverlander]

Another option for buying aluminum is Metal Supermarkets. They're not everywhere throughout NA, but I see there are a few in Florida. There are several in our area and I've found that the staff are always very helpful.

[tbashin]

Aluminum interior walls because it's part of the structural strength designed into the trailer. The belly pan should be put back on to protect the bottom.

[SuzyHomemakr]

I used 1/8" ply instead of skins in my bedroom. It looks nice, but it was definitely a non-trivial task! Putting up overhead storage in the top corners will help to hide the most complicated parts that are easy to get wrong. Having battens between the panels looks cool, and covers up the nasty seams. I wish that I'd made my panels skinnier, as they go together better that way. Plan on having lots help/props/wedges/beverages to get them to hold the curve while you frantically screw them together!

[DavidsonOverlander]

Originally Posted by SuzyHomemakr

I used 1/8" ply instead of skins in my bedroom. It looks nice, but it was definitely a non-trivial task! Putting up overhead storage in the top corners will help to hide the most complicated parts that are easy to get wrong. Having battens between the panels looks cool, and covers up the nasty seams. I wish that I'd made my panels skinnier, as they go together better that way. Plan on having lots help/props/wedges/beverages to get them to hold the curve while you frantically screw them together!

I did this in the front of our '74 Sovereign and agree that it's a lot of work! I put the 1/8" plywood over aluminum and the ABS end cap, not instead of it. One drawback I found was that if there's a leak the water will tend to come through where you have screwed the plywood to the aluminum, and discolour the plywood. Not really the way I like to find leaks!