Quote:
Originally Posted by roadsterswap
I traded my neighbor a chevrolet motor for his trailer. It had been sitting outside for 20 plus years. I live near the ocean so you can imagine the condition. I started to replace all the rusty screws and bolts that were bleeding rust onto the blue gel coat. I have the usual things to replace. A few broken windows, some wood rot and rust clean up. This one someone made a top that allows you to stand at the stove and somewhat in the dining area. I will post pictures very soon. I an struggling right now with wheels and bolt pattern. Trying to find a matching set of 13 inch wheels in 4 lug pattern which only measures 3 inches!! I am so challenged by this. Thanks for the website and support. I am trying to have fun, but even the smallest trailer to be restored takes time and effort. I look forward to taking it on the road to visit family. Thanks Tim.
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The first thing you need to do is take the shell off the frame. You frame needs a 100% inspection. It is very likely not going to be in a safe condition if it has been sitting for 20 years near the ocean. When you get a new frame also get a new
axle and of course new wheels that are of an easy to get configuration as well as new
tires. Starting from the bottom up in your salty environmnt location is the only realistic approach.
I have just been doing that very thing with my 1971 vintage
fiberglass trailer that also sat for around 20 years. The
leaks from
windows and door allowed water into the interior. It then ran down the bolt locations into the frame and rotted out the steel but much of that damage could not be seen by looking at the underside of the trailer frame. Fortunately I had friends who donated their labor and shop space and handled the cutting and the welding of new frame. I paid for all the materials and did the
painting and assisted in removing the old frame and installing the new one. Of course I also helped with the measurements for creating the measured construction drawings for the new frame.
Yes it was more money than I wanted to spend but at least I know I will be much safer going down the road, especially on those unpaved roads into the various parks and BLM camping sites that can really stress a frame going over uneven ruts and bumps.