1957 Overlander restoration part 1 deconstruction

Well, we've started another crazy project. You would think we would have learned a lesson after the last time, but here we go again. At least this one is already a double axle. We bought this Airstream as a shell only, and with no floor. Some of the interior walls were already taken out, and the previous owner had redone all of the window glass. 

This is how it looked when we got it! 

We finished taking out the remaining interior walls, and removing the brittle insulation. I washed down the walls, and braced the sides to get it ready to remove the shell.

Raising the roof!

Trying to be careful

Setting the shell down

 I was debating on whether to use the original frame, or the frame from the 2006 wrecked Airstream. To use the original, I was going to need two new axles with brakes, and a new hitch. I was going to have to cut several crossmembers to allow for the holding tanks. The frame from the 2006 already had a new hitch, and two good Dexter axles, and was heavier duty since it is a 5" frame. The only problem was the frame and axles were 7" too wide. My solution? Cut 7" out of the middle of the frame and axles and weld it back together! Ha! Sounds crazy, huh? But as always I am up for a challenge.

Starting to cut!

Ready to make it narrower!

Welded back, with the tank supports in place.

Painting the frame black. I want to see it painted, painted, painted black. Thanks Rolling Stones. 

Cutting the axles. 

Cutting the belly pan pieces. Did you notice the Airstream end cap light fixture on the wall? It was from the 2006, and I hated to just throw it away. I am waiting on the aluminum step I ordered from Silver trailer supply. 

The belly pan ready

Final welding

The gray and fresh water tanks

Insulation in place

The subfloor plywood painted

The plywood subfloor bolted down, and the bottom rail in place

The new aluminum step

Bolting the axles back on.

I am almost ready to put the shell back on. And not a minute too soon, because Shelly wants the barn empty for Erica's baby shower next weekend. She had to light a fire under me. One more day of finishing the side pieces of the belly pan.

Lifting the shell

Off the ground

Almost on

Slowly, slowly

It fits!

I put about 50 Clecos in to temporarily hold the shell on, until I can rivet it back in place.