The Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine #40

V TRAILERS e g a t in

CAMPER

Vol. 7, No. 6, Issue: 40 November-December 2018

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Expanded Do-it-yourself

section

The magazine for all vintage camper trailer collectors, restorers, admirers and dreamers.

RESCUE

R E S TO R E

R A L LY

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We picked up a 62 Shasta trailer and the side looked like a kid took a stick to the side of it. It was bad. We brought the skin to Hemet Valley RV and they Made a new piece. The Bottom skin is new and the top skin was old, but they look identical.

It had 6 inch lines and it turned out perfect. Thanks Guys.

Great job. -Barry

What our customers Wrap your trailer in NEW siding! have to say about us

ďƒŠ

Five Star Plus!!! Steve and his company demonstrate what customer service should look like. Thanks so much! -Glenn

Pre-painted and polished finishes I recently purchased all of the siding,trim and entry door for 1970 11’ foot trailerdings that I rebuilt using only the metal frame Get rid of all of theanof the dents and original trailer. I contacted Steve at Hemet Valley RV and sent him a side view of the trailer with the dimensions on Most patterns can be matched trailer it. Steve figuredto outyour what material I needed and the amount and sent it. Everything that I needed I received in a timely Located in Hemet, California, we offer a wide variety fashion and it was packaged in very strong boxes...Thanks of RV siding and camper siding Increase for a variety ofthe vintage trailers value so muchresale for the great job Steve, I have no doubt that your camper trailers. Our panels and products are ideal when business will have continued success, Great Job. -Wayne M. it comes to completing seamless repairs to Re-insulate or rewire at the same time siding, roofing and edging on your vehicle.

Extensive knowledge and quality materials. Very fair pricing Hemet Valley RV guarantees to deliver the results that you expect right to your door.

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and quick turn around time. Steve and Tammy are always helpful. -Larry

The VCT Magazine cover is by the Retro Christmas Card Company

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Inside This Issue Index

8

6

17

Trigger -Horse Trailer Conversion

6

Mt. Baker Rally, Lynden, WA

8

1947 Spartan, Night at the Museum

12

Buellton, CA Trailer Bash Rally

17

Trailerfest Rally 2018 - Plymouth, CA

18

Camper Chef - Argosy Odyssey

23

1967 Shasta Starflyte Experience

28

1957 Shasta @culturehustlers

31

Readers Vintage Journeys

32

Before They Were Vintage - Zimair

42

Restoration "How-To" 12 pages!

44

Evaluate Your Trailers Value

56

USA Rally Calendar

57

Vintage Trailers For Sale

62

BOOKS

12 23

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Vintage Camper Trailers RALLY TILL YOU DROP

FREE Stickers and Bookmarks Signed by the Authors WE PAY THE SHIPPING AND YOU'RE THE HERO WHEN YOU GIVE THIS GREAT GIFT!

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American Tr a i l e r i t e

By Paul Lacitinola Publisher VCT Magazine

Volume: 7 - Number: 6 - Issue: 40 PO Box 354, Elverta CA 95626 (916) 572-8554

www.vintagecampertrailers.com vintagecampertrailers@gmail.com Published by: Paul and Caroline Lacitinola American Trailerites The VCT Magazine is published bi-monthly January, March, May, July, September & November.

Marriage is about the most expensive way for the average man to get laundry done.

-Burt Reynolds Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine is a non-denominational supporter of the vintage camper trailer hobby.

We welcome all collectors, restorers, admirers and dreamers.

Give a Gift Subscription to a Friend!

Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine reserves the exclusive right to reject or accept advertising or editorial material submitted for publication. The editorial content contained in this magazine does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine (USPS Publication Number 15940) is published bimonthly (in January, March, May, July, September, November) by Vintage Camper Trailers, 8416 Elwyn Avenue, Elverta, CA 95626-9552. Periodical postage paid at Elverta, CA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Vintage Camper Trailers, PO Box 354, Elverta, CA 95626-0354.

WE BUY Vintage Camper Trailers, Bicycles, Cars, Motorcycles and Pick-Ups. (916) 992-1427

This is our 40th issue. Round numbers seem to make more memorable milestones so we are celebrating this one. 40 issues represents over six and a half years of publishing the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine.

Many of our subscribers have been around to see the evolution from a 12 page tabloid newsprint paper to this full color 64 page glossy magazine. We couldn’t have gotten to this point without your support.

This is our biggest issue ever. 33% larger than our average sized issue with a dozen pages of “howto” information for the do-it-yourselfer. Many of our subscribers must be restoring their own trailers because it is the number one content request that we receive. We want to be responsive to our readers so we will continue to provide quality restoration and how-to articles in every issue.

Vintage trailers are not that complicated. With a little help, you can likely do many of the repairs and maintenance yourself.

When it comes to restoration and repairs there can be more than one right way to do things. Many of our how-to articles come from experts, craftsman and restorers. They are willing to share how they do repairs and restorations with you. If you have a different approach, method or idea on how to get a job done, please share it with us. We want to be able to pass on all methods to our readers so they can choose the one that will work best for them.

Our next issue will be focusing on interior repairs and restoration. Let us know if this is your area of expertise, or if you simply have some ideas that have worked for you.

Restoration information in writing is good, but experiencing instruction in person is even better. Our annual VCT Boot Camp event in Hollister, California is a restoration learning experience that attracts both novice and professional vintage trailer owners and restorers from across the USA and Canada. It contains hands-on classes, demos and plenty of time to ask all of your questions. It is held the first weekend in March and you are sure to develop relationships with other like-minded trailerites. This is a powerful weekend that only comes around every 12 months.

For more details on this event see page 57 of this magazine or visit www.vctbootcamp.com. Make your plans to attend now! www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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TRIGGER This one really does look like a horse trailer!

Photos taken at the Mt. Baker Rally, Lynden, WA

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Mt. Baker Rally Lynden, Washington

By Fred Cote

E

v saw the beautiful lines of this trailer when it was being used for storage at a client’s house. Ev expressed an interest in the trailer and 2 years later we received a call from the owner.

He was ready to sell and we jumped at the opportunity to get

Retro laminates, chevron handles and classic trim

Looking out the back of the trailer

Mt Baker

VINTAGE TRAILE R RALLY

Lynden, Wa Sept 4-10 201 8

our hands on this classic trailer. The lines reminded us of a bread-loaf style vintage trailer. Not surprising as many people often think bread-loafs, (Vagabonds, Westcrafts, Gliders etc.) look like horse trailers!

Similar lines of a bread-loaf style vintage trailer

Fred and Ev Cote

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Mt. Baker Rally Rene had her own little canned ham all ready for me when I arrived! The trailer was perfect,... warm and dry in the seasonally cool damp weather of Northern Washington.

TRIGGER We worked together on this project, calling it “Trigger” with the goal of maintaining the outside appearance of a horse trailer, utilizing the original doors and windows into the design.

After attending the design course at the Vintage Camper Trailers magazines “Boot Camp 2018” Ev created a design with an open feel based on our needs.

We wanted to maintain the vintage flavor so we used retro arborite, chevron handles, classic trim, and checkerboard flooring. The sink and Ice box are from an early 60’s Vangaurd. The table drops down to make a 59” bed and there is a porta potty installed in a cabinet under the bench seat.

It is fully insulated and sealed which was not an easy task. Horse trailers were never designed to be watertight or insulated. I had the advantage of working for an RV dealer from 1975 till the early 80’s. That experience, and the refresher I received from attending the VCT Boot Camp was the foundation we needed to complete all aspects of this project. Ev’s vision, and her handiness with power tools, made this the ideal project for us to do together.

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S

eptember 5th-9th, 2018 I found myself at the Mt. Baker Rally in Lynden, WA. I had spent the prior 10 days driving from Northern California to New Orleans, Louisiana. I delivered a Holiday House to the new owner in Tucson, Arizona and picked up another project Holiday House in Fort Worth, Texas to come back to California to be restored. With all of that driving, I decided to fly in to Bellingham Washington and took an Uber ride to the Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center where the rally was being held. This was my first year to attend this

By Paul Lacitinola rally and it was well worth the effort to get there. -PAUL

Hosts Rene Perret and Jeremy Ralston of Down River Trailer Restoration were kind enough to have a great little canned ham all set-up and waiting for me! The weekend was full of rally activities and it was fun for me to reconnect with the Pacific Northwest trailerites that we don’t see as frequently as our other friends in California.

This rally does not require preregistration. All you have to do is show up with a vintage trailer and find a spot! Because there is no preregistration, you don’t know how many trailers are going to show up.

Throughout the weekend many of those that were participating in the event checked back with the hosts to see how many trailers had made it to the rally. Even though it was a little rainy, about 217 trailers had arrived by Saturday for the open house. Since there are no defined campsites, friends can “circle their wagons” and set up their camp.

Saturday morning, before open house at noon, everyone set up their items for sale in booths in one of the

All you have to do is show up with a vintage trailer and find a spot! large buildings on the grounds. This format is a little different than how we typically do open house/yard sales. Bob Gallagher (the host of The All American Rally in Oregon in July), told me that he had never seen “yard sales” in front of trailers at rallies until he came to California.

At our rallies, many of the campers sell mid-century collectibles, crafts, parts, jams and other junk in front of their trailers during open house.

This rally has seen a couple of different hosts over the years but Rene and Jeremy are committed to continuing the tradition of the largest rally in Washington. Working to grow and improve it for years to come.

Far Left: Eddie gave me a tour through the little town of Lynden, WA in his custom Ford.

Left: Plenty of time for chillaxin under the awning with good friends.

Since there are no defined campsites, friends can “circle their wagons� and set up camp.

Cheryl and Terry of Oregon City, OR kept me fed from their kitchen under the rear awning of their 1962 Aloha.

Note the angle of the awning. Good idea if rain is coming.

At night time the rally is alive with glowing lights and movies shown under the stars.

Ben and Marissa Black 1967 Ken Craft Snohomish, WA

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1948 Flxible Bus Matt and Tiffany Snohomish, WA

This trailer was custom built on the chasis of a 1962 Terry Trailer. Note the rear door that allows the trailer to function like a toy hauler to transport the replica electric car. The electric car was built from scratch by Brian. He also restored the Chrysler.

Brian and Verene Mace Kent, WA

Eddie Spoelstra showed up in his custom 1953 Ford that he has owned for 53 years.

Eddie towed his '54 Ranger trailer with his Ford, to the Mt. Baker Rally, from SedroWoolley, WA

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More than just trailers were at the rally...

See you next year! www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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1947 Spartan Manor A NIGHT AT THE MENDENHALL MUSEUM

In January of 2014 Frank Stevens found out that looking on Craigslist can be expensive.

Frank restores old cars for a living, and he's been camping most of his life, he thought “why not get a vintage trailer?” After visiting a few rallies he decided on a Trolly Top but couldn't find a good one to start with. He did find a 1947 Spartan Manor, and it was only about thirty minutes from his house. It was all original on the outside and more importantly it was complete and had a really clean body. It even had a cool slimp wheel.

The interior had been gutted and rewired with all new insulation. Most of the cabinets & counter-tops were installed along with a new 3 way fridge. It was a perfect starting point.

A deal was struck and Frank realized (that first night on his way home) that you can't see the bottom of the trailer at night. He 12 www.vintagecampertrailers.com

decided to mount L.E.D. running lights in the rub rails to shine on the ground in order to see the trailer at night while towing.

Most of the rub rail was damaged so it was all removed and fixed. Frank even found some rare ‘46 rear corners which he had to cut apart and re-arch to fit his trailer. A backup camera was also installed into the rub rail. A cool shade of green was picked for the rub rails and other accents.

The interior was almost finished except there was a big opening where a bathroom should be. The bathroom needed to be usable with a big shower and a tiled floor for something different. Boat flooring was chosen for the

walls. It is 100% waterproof and there are no seams in the corners as it is all one piece. The floor has a pre-sloped shower pan that you tile right over.

1" hex tile was chosen to be period correct. A 3/8" copper tube was bent to follow the curve of the roof to hold a shower curtain that was cut down and re-sewn to match the roof contour.

Antique faucets were rebuilt and used for the sink which has a custom made riser out of polished aluminum and the shower valves along with more 1/2" copper line to a porcelain www.vintagecampertrailers.com 13

The front dinette table is perfect for hanging out at rallies so it's made of over 300 Snapple fact lids in a clear bar top material for a great conversation piece.

100 year old barn wood was used for flooring. (above) It started out as 1" thick and was planed down to 3/8" thick. Barn wood is not straight so it had to be straight edged, Frank laid out the color scheme and then spent hours laying out the floor and the various lengths and then finally installed it. It was well worth the time because it's not your typical trailer flooring.

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A 21" O'keefe and Merritt stove was sent out for chrome and re-porcelained.

shower head. Frank also made the bent copper light fixtures so that everything matches. A composting toilet was used so there is no need to worry about a black tank.

Custom fiberglass covers were also made for the fridge and painted green to make it look old. To keep the trailer comfortable, a Coleman Mach 8 A/C unit was mounted on the roof - only after reinforcing the roof to support the extra weight.

A custom polished aluminum cover was made for the roof and the inside plastic

lid was faux finished to match the birch interior. No trailer would be complete without a cool stereo. A top of the line Alpine head unit was picked, a 5 channel Alpine amp with a 12" sub-woofer with front and rear speakers all covered in antique speaker cloth.

For the bottom of the trailer, the original axle was swapped out for a 5200 lb axle that was widened. 1939 Artillery wheels were found at a swap meet, cut apart and widened, powder coated and pinstriped. The front of the frame was boxed to give it more strength.

Marker lights are built in to the rub rails and there are white LED lights under the trailer that illuminate when the truck is in reverse for night time backing up.

Two 30 lb polished Worthington gas bottles with polished copper hard lines.

After 100's of hours and years of work she is basically done. Frank averages about 7 rallies a year including The Buellton Vintage Trailer Bash. The Spartan has about 7000 miles on her including a 2300 mile trip last year to Riverton, Wyoming to watch the Eclipse, with stops at the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Zion national park. The goal was to build a vintage trailer that was usable, different than other Spartans and can be boondocked if needed. She is working out perfectly..... www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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The Mendenhall Museum of Gasoline Pumps and Petroliana in Buellton, CA was the setting for this photo shoot. An incredible collection that you have to see to believe.

In the fifties, Jack Mendenhall owned and operated a Richfield Service Station and had a towing contract with AAA. After selling the station in the late seventies he went on the road as a traveling salesman.

He traveled the continental United States selling signs. But mostly‌ he collected.

The museum is on the original site of his wrecking yard and displays many of the items he collected while on the road. Many of the things in the museum are from his early years of picking up things that appealed to him. (Jack was the “original� American Picker!) www.mendenhallmuseum.com/

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The Vintage Trailer Buellton, BashCA Are you in the 3%?

M

any rallies, especially the larger ones like Buellton, Trailerfest and Pismo sell out each year. The only way to attend is to get on the waiting list and wait for a spot to open up.

Dedicated hosts, or wagon-masters, spend hours planning, organizing and executing events that are popular with so many in the hobby. It is a lot of work but it is very gratifying to see so many like minded people participating and having fun.

The Buellton Rally is the weekend before our Fall Trailerfest Rally. We have attended the Buellton Rally for years and wouldn't miss it. I got a kick out of Host David Neel's letter when I got home.

Feeling his pain, I had to call him and commiserate and make sure it was ok to share it in the magazine.

Host's letter to attendees of the Buellton 2018 Rally:

The idea is to be with like minded people who enjoy vintage. The worst thing that can happen is you make new friends in an area which may not be your first choice.

By now, you have returned home and the 9th Annual Buellton Vintage Trailer Bash is over (wow, that was quick). I hope you had a good time and took a lot of pictures; please post to the Buellton Vintage Trailer Bash site on Facebook.

I have processed the yellow signup forms for next year and we have #224 campers out of #230, which is a 97% retention rate. Wow! Thank you for making this such a great rally. A couple of housekeeping items based on the notes on the yellow forms‌ I do not know where the trees are on the property, since I only camp there 1x per year and Flying Flags management does not have an arbor map. I do know the mature areas have a Continued on page 32

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Rally

Kellie's Canteen was busting at the seams with food, drink and folks. (Kellie second from left.)

Faye and Rosa made sure no one got out of control. (left)

W

e (Paul and Caroline Lacitinola, the publishers of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine), host three different Trailerfest Rallies each year. Trailerfest Rallies take over the entire campground with 150 to 250 pre1972 trailers, RV’s and classic cars. The rallies are held in Northern California at fantastic parks in Plymouth, Red Bluff and Hollister. Trailerfest Rallies each have a different theme. This year the theme was Military Appreciation1940’s. Each guest received real souvenir dog tags, a flag or red/white/blue pinwheel and a newspaper that contained the itinerary and photos of all of the people at the rally that served in the armed forces.

Most guests arrived on Thursday to the long sold-out event. Thursday night was a potluck dinner before several guest went on a field trip to the Red Mule Ranch in nearby Fiddletown, CA. Friday morning guests awoke to biscuits, sausage gravy, scrambled eggs and an oatmeal bar! Friday night Kellie Cronin hosted Kellie's Canteen party. A potluck of food and drink that was packed! Saturday morning there were enough donuts and coffee for everyone and Ted Nelson blew reveille to start the military parade march.

Many participated on foot, bikes and in military vehicles!

The parade toured the entire park to the smiling faces of onlookers waving flags from their campsites. Saturday night everyone enjoyed a Glenn Miller style band. Many participated with period correct costumes and military uniforms. The weekend was a blast and many are already looking forward to next year's events.

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TRAILERFE September 27-3

0, 2018

ST TIMES

TRAILERITES IN A Vintage Cam

per Trailers Publ

ication

Volume 1 Issue

PLYMOUTH CAL VADE IFORNIA

WELCOME!

1

Militar y Apprec

Trailerfest has taken on many and Trailer Cour great themes over the Martha Kaufeldt ts, Motor years. Many of Lodges, hotel gave us the inspi trailerites that the s and have attended ramultiple tion for the “Back to the Trailer Trailerfest event Parks 60’s, Hippiefs share with us their fa- est” (Spring 2018). The accommoda vorites. Themes tpoliti like “Christma cal cli- ed those s in the mate of that era was very Trailer Park”, “Trai on the differ ent lerfiesta” (Cinc that than of of the WW2 move to impro o De Mayo), and “Bac era just a coup ve k to School” are le of their just a decades before. While we few that seem quality of to be some of were planthe more ning the spring rally, we living. New highmemorable. The came up with Trailerfest them ways created betusually inspired e is the idea of doing a “Military Appreciby suggestions ter access to once from ation” theme. We always the attendees.

We take sugge try to intestions as grate patriotism in our inspiration to events. We fly far away destinahelp us decide the next an American flag at our tions. The High theme for a Traile trailer to pay way rfest rally. The Act of 1956 theme respect to the country that must have broad provi provides us appeal, connect $26 thousand-m ded to the with the opportunity to prosp past and and be illion, er and enfamily friendly. joy hobbies like vinta years “1940’s-M This ge camping. This the largest public works ilitary Appreciati them e has come to life on is sure to be one with things like expenditure in U.S. histhat people will remem- a Glenn Miller inspired tory, linking ber and remeber big band, dog together those that serve tags and this news all d. parts paper. of the country.

In the postwar period the West and the Southwest conti nued to grow -a trend When we reach that would conti ed out to the atten nue through the of this fall’s event dees end of the century. for their milita Sun Belt cities ry ser- Hous vice informatio like n, we had no idea ton, Texas; Miam many had serve i, how buqu erque, New Mexi Florida; Ald. We were pleas co; and Tucso ly surprised with ant- and n Phoenix, Arizo over 50 respo na, expanded nses!

This circle of friend raps represents a span idly. Los Angeles, Calif of decades and ornia, moved ahead of Phila a variety of milita delphia, Pennsylva branches, ranks ry as the nia, and dutys. third largest U.S. city. By 1963 California had more people than New York.

iation

Thank You for Your Service!

from KOA in 2016 . The name “Trai fest” was adop ted from the park’ lers event called “Towerfes t” hosting that event after the park quit . By our fourth we were selling year out the entire park over 250 traile with rs and all of the cabins filling up mont hs in advance with waiting lists of peop le that wanted The decade and to come.

In 2016 the new a half after Worl owners of the d II, the United let us know that park States experience War their future plans d phenomenal econo cluded more cabin inmic s and less camp brought the return growth. The war sites.

Already busting of prosperity, at the seams, we in the postwar and We started hosti to find a differ period had ng rallies almo ent park with at solidified its posit the United States accident. In st by least as many campsites.

2011 we want ion as the world ed to get a After much searc richest country. group of friend ’s we ended up at hing More American s together and the 49’er in Plym go camps now ing. I called considered them outh, CA. around and found selves part of out that Vintag (Excerpts from our second “middle class.” the the KOA camp book, e Camper Traile ground at Towe The automobile r Rallies. Avail r Park at www. travel trailer indus and in Lodi, Calif able vintagecampertrail ornia was havin tries were partia ers.com) responsible for g an lly event they called this boom. The “Tow erfes t”. It was Traile num- a tiki themed ber of automobile rfest 2019 will event complete s now host three with hula differ quadrupled betw produced annually dancers, food ent events in and all of the een 1946 and three different amenities catio 1955. that the park A housing boom lons. Glamperfest had to offer. That , stimulated in in Red part by there were affordable mortg year in May, less than two Rockabilly Rally Bluff, CA ages for servi dozen of us CA cemen and we had returning from in Hollister, in June and back a blast. The next duty, helped fuel year when the to Plymouth in expansion. In the we put the word fall. The fall them the years imme out, over 50 traile e will be diate following WWI registered. Over I, approximately ly a span of six years rs Wedding, an 80’s Love Story “White of Americans lived 8% worked with , we pared to renew ”. Be predifferent park in mobile housi your vows and mana Americans were ng. and even new crash the owners when Yogi gers reception! on the move.

Auto Jellystone Reso Bear rts purchased the park www .TrailerfestRa lly.com

Post War Prospe

rity

Paul Carwin is helo-lifted from the submarine, USS Snook so he could deliver classified inform ation.

Western Pacific, 1962.

A RESTORATION LEA

Trailerfest Past and Future

March 7-10, 2019  Hollister, CA www .VCTBootCamp.com

RNING EXPERIENCE

NAME

__

__

RANK

or trailer year m

SERIAL NU or home town

PL

Dal Smilie, Tim Haworth, Lew Rift and Howdy Hoover were among the 50 men and women pictured in the Trailerfest Times.

Everybody received dog-tags, window signs (below) and souvenir stickers to remember the rally by.

Parades, parties, pot-lucks, food trucks, hot rods, military vehicles and a nineteen piece Glenn Miller style band. Another memorable Trailerfest!

Cynthia (@elotetrailer) made the cool Rosie the Riveter/ Uncle Sam photo-op piece.

She and Matt are pictured with it below.

______________________________________

______________________________________

make and model

__________________________________

UMBER

LYMOUTH, CA

FALL 2018

www.trailerfestrally.com

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It's hard to imagine how "seriously" folks take the Trailerfest theme. Each rally has a different theme that many of the guests embrace. Trailers are decorated, costumes are worn and we even match the band to the theme on Saturday night!

More photos of this rally and information on next year's three Trailerfest events at www.trailerfestrally.com

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Are you the camp cook?

We are looking for you.

The Vintage Camper Trailers cookbook wants your recipe.

VintageCamperTrailers@gmail.com

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CAMPER

CHEF Use pre-made Fettuccine or make fresh pasta for this simple dish that allows you to incorporate the spices and flavors you like.

Photos by Tommy McDonald www.tommymacfoto.com @tommymacofficial

PASTA RECIPE: 300 grams flour 3 eggs and two table spoons of water, Combine to make dough and put in the fridge for 30 min. Use a pasta machine to prepare noodles.

Recipe continued on page 26 www.vintagecampertrailers.com 23

argosyodyssey website/blog www.argosyodyssey.com www.facebook.com/argosyodyssey Instagram @argosyodyssey

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After selling their bar and home in Asheville, NC, Chad and Cate Battles renovated a 1976 Airstream Argosy 22ft. While Chad did nearly all the interior work himself, Cate painted a mural around the exterior, representing the changing landscapes of the country. Along with their pet goat, Frankie, and pup, Maggie, they have traveled nearly 40,000 miles around North America the past 2 and 1/2 years including 2 countries and 28 states. Their blog details the pets’ adventures around the country and offers tips about travel destinations, free and affordable campsites, and pet friendly hikes, activities, and points of interest. Their new home-base is Grants Pass, Oregon.

Cate (above right) hooked up with Bart Cops, aka Camper Chef, to make some pasta!

CAMPER

CHEF

CAMPER

CHEF www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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Argosy Pasta with Chicken and Cream Sauce Remove fat and cut 2 chicken breast fillets in to 1" cubes.

Marinate with Belgian beer for 1-2 hours Cook on medium heat in skillet preheated with extra virgin olive oil, butter. Season with your choice of things like Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, garlic, salt and pepper etc.

Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and sautĂŠ a cup of sliced mushrooms. Once cooked remove from skillet.

Add 2 cups of heavy cream to the skillet to make your sauce.

Whisk it on high heath until your sauce thickens, ad a little bit of flour, one tablespoon at the time. Add pepper and a pinch of salt Cook fresh pasta in boiling water, add salt and olive oil. Cook 3-4 minutes until it floats to the surface. Taste test, al dente Mix your pasta, chicken, mushrooms and a 1/2 cup of fresh cut parsley to your sauce. Serve on a plate and top off with fresh parmigiana cheese and fresh parsley

Tatiana Malyarov lent a hand.

Bart and Cate know that water won't boil if you watch it. They take a break inside of the Argosy reading the Vintage Camper Trailers book and magazine!

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1959 Cardinal

Jake and Ginger Young Camano Island, WA 1959 Cardinal

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Creator of Experiences Ms. Lacey-Pearl / Pandora's Box After having the “winning” Ebay bid in October 2017, Yvonne and her handy-hubby, George hit the road in their trusty old pick-up truck “Big Red” and drove through 6 states (one way) to “rescue" Ms. Lacey-Pearl from the back woods of northern Wisconsin! Once the trailer was at home, Yvonne and George started removing the lipstick and rouge and discovered 80% of the frame and ceiling had serious structural damage and the electrical and plumbing was all unsafe and shamelessly jimmy-rigged.

It later hit them that it was no less than an act of GOD that they arrived back home safely and all in one piece! Yvonne, known for her stubbornness, didn’t want to cut her losses and throw in the towel, like a sane person would, because she felt an instant “connection” with the trailer and knew she was meant to “rescue” and “resurrect" her.

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www.vintagecampertrailers.com

Yvonne Evans a CREATOR of "Experiences” and her handy hubby is the “Wind beneath her (Shasta) wings!"

Yvonne bribed her hubby, George Evans and her “out of the box thinker" handyman, Bill Bradley, to go to an all-female vintage trailer show with the promise of treating them both to a “slamming" BBQ lunch.

After looking at 20+ vintage “glampers” (glamour + campers) Yvonne felt instantly inspired to reinvent her sadly neglected 1967 Shasta, Starflyte.

During the 1.5 hour ride back home, Yvonne busily began to draw up the first rough draft of the trailer, the floor plan, the Mermaid’s Lair theme, the color palate materials that Yvonne envisioned using. So the journey began...Fast forward through winter, spring and summer and 300 combined working hours later, Yvonne decided on the trailer’s name, "Ms. Lacey-Pearl”. This was inspired by George’s grandmothers (Ms. Lacy & Ms. Pearl). So, it seemed fitting to name a Mermaid’s Lair themed trailer, “Ms. Lacey-Pearl”. That was a very good move on Yvonne’s part, since poor George almost lost his thumb during the renovation project from a table saw accident.

As of this Summer 2018, Ms. Lacey-Pearl is open for others to enjoy her beauty, as she is an added feature to “Yvonne’s Secret Garden Spa” and her customers can enjoy a fun daytime venue for “Glamping & Facial” parties, or as a peaceful and loving “womb” to stay within as a nightly rental retreat. www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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Just when the caterpillar thought its’ life was at its’ end, it turned into a beautiful butterfly” (Anonymous)

This poem definitely is representational of Ms. Lacey-Pearl, but instead of a butterfly, she’s a beautiful Mermaid with Shasta wings and wheels.

Ms. Lacey-Pearl proudly sits on Yvonne & George’s rear property where they sectioned off an area to create a faux “campsite”. It’s equipped with everything a GLAMPING guest needs to feel right at home! The campsite includes a rock fire pit, comfy outdoor furnishings, decorative bunting, garden lights, trees, songbirds and

family backyard chickens (hens only) happily clucking in the background. And to top it off, this cozy campsite is only .80 mile away from the great, “Mayberry-like”, charming, historic, downtown of McKinney, Texas; known for great dining, shopping and a love for the arts!

Photos by: Hope Harrison Photography, Frisco, TX (469) 394-8664, www.hopeharrison.net

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www.vintagecampertrailers.com

@culturehustlers

THE ORIGINAL MOBILE INCUBATOR is a showcase of

American creative enterprise. The structure is a completely overhauled 1957 Shasta camper, an American icon of industrial design by Robert Gray. Shasta sold the largest volume of all trailers in the ‘canned ham’ era of campers - 1940s through the 1970s and the lightning stripe on its side has been replicated by numerous SOBs (Some Other Brand).

-200 watt solar system.

-Satellite powered internet.

-Conference & podcasting equipment.

The interior of the Mobile Incubator showcases contemporary design products such as a mosaic table designed by artist Kate Jessop, laser cut signage by Tieton Mosaic and sconces by GrayPants Inc. The upholstery is from Pendleton Woolen Mills and artist Michèle Fandel Bonner. The walls of the Mobile Incubator are a 1,000+ piece wooden mosaic. The incubator was constructed at Mighty Tieton, an artisan business incubator in Central Washington State.

Towed by a 1973 Ford Econoline Canadian ambulance

Culture Hustlers is a movement of artists, performers, writers & designers on a journey from side hustler to entrepreneur.

We’re mapping the entire US culture sector, mile by mile, sharing our stories and advice through podcasts, docu-shorts, field reporting & pop-ups.

More Info: www.culturehustlers.com, @culturehustlers.

The walls are a 1,000 piece wooden mosaic.

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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R E S C U E RESTORE R A L L Y

IN THE

USA

The Appeal of Vintage Camping

By John A. Larsen

Since retiring four years ago my wife, Diane, and I have been "all in" on vintage camping. We return from a fun rally eager to share the details of our weekend with friends back home, but many give us that look of, “Are you kidding?” They don’t get it.

This recalls the expression, “It takes one to know one.” If you haven’t had the experience of nesting in a vintage camper and hanging out with friends who also love the hobby, you probably don’t have any idea of how fun it can be. Hopefully, our experience will give you a glimpse into the adventure that vintage camping has been for us.

Read any article in this magazine and you will be struck by how much people love their vintage travel trailers. Our goto camper, and the favorite of our six, is a restored 1961

Continued from page 17 better chance of trees than the newer areas. A tree that was at my site for many years was cut down sometime between the end of September 2017 and September 20, 2018. I also know that the number of sites far exceeds the number of trees @ sites. If you wrote on your yellow form that you want a tree next year, I cannot guarantee it.

If you wrote on your form that you want a specific site # next year that was not your site # this year, I cannot guarantee that either.

Remember, someone is in that site # and may have reserved it for next year.

David Neel and his son Max MC the pool side fashion show.

A few of you wrote if you do not get a specific site next year, you are not coming back. I will reach out to you personally via email in a couple of weeks to see how you are doing.

If you still feel this way, I will return your deposit and we will part as friends. For every person who does not like an area of the park, I have someone who comments that they love that area. For example……

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Shasta Deluxe 19’. It has all the amenities needed to keep us comfortable—a queen size bed, bathroom, stove, microwave, refrigerator, furnace and air conditioner. Step inside and you immediately feel the warm embrace of its honey-colored birch interior. Its canned ham shape, wings and two color paint scheme make for nice eye candy.

Rallies we have attended typically begin with a meet and greet gathering. Other activities have included pot luck meals, Dutch oven demonstrations, games, swap meets, dances and classic movies like, The Long, Long Trailer. The campground teems with curious locals who show up for the open house, usually a two or three-hour event on Saturday afternoon. But you don’t necessarily have to wait for the open house to tour a trailer. If you are curious about someone’s camper you can count on them being happy to invite you in

Some have said to remove them from the 400’s, yet many LOVE the 400’s and request their same site in the 400’s each year. That has become a highly requested area. Some do not like the lower numbered sites while others request to be there each year (close to potties).

This year, the 200’s were new and available to us, which is how we spooled up to #230 total sites. Some did not like the 200’s, while others LOVE the new area and have requested their same site again. ……the point is, this is not Goldilocks Camping. The idea is to be with like minded people who enjoy vintage, being with each other, their dogs, campfires and the worst thing that can happen is you make new friends in an area which would not be your first choice. Please remember that next year if you are in an area that is not just right.

I have been looking at Facebook and wanted to give the group my opinion of Open House. Open House is nice, and we all enjoy showing our trailers and accessories to others so they can enjoy too. However, Buellton has never been a hard core Open House event. Yes, there are many that show up to view, but it is not like Pismo, Murphy Museum or Palm Springs Modernism where there are over 1,000 people in a single day. Buellton/Solvang always has a lot going on during the weekends and during our weekend this year, there was a VW Car Show in Solvang; next year it will be Danish Days. More importantly, Buellton Vintage Trailer Bash has

Continued on page 34

most anytime, whether it is rough and unrestored or a sparkling, newly restored unit.

Hands down, the best part of vintage camping is relating to the great people who show up. They come from all walks of life and cut across every age group. In the beginning we expected most to be older but have been pleasantly surprised at how many middle aged and younger folks with children are involved in this rapidly growing hobby.

We love relating to friends of all generations. Relaxing in our favorite camp chairs while sipping on a cool beverage under the awning is hard to beat, especially when fellow campers drop by to visit.

Having been to rallies for several years now, we typically know about half of those present. On a recent evening walk I commented to Diane that the camp seemed like a familiar, yet ever changing neighborhood. There are known faces and trailers--many parked on the same lots as in previous years.

But sometimes they are in a different spot, and at other times they show up with a different camper. Always, there are new

folks in the “neighborhood” with campers we have never seen before, which mixes it up and adds freshness to the experience. Visiting with old friends at these outings is great fun, but there is the added enjoyment of meeting new people and making new friends.

Creative is one way to describe our fellow vintage camping hobbyists. Many trailers are lit up in the evening with lights of all colors, shapes and sizes. Some decorate around a particular theme, and when you know the people, their chosen themes seem to make perfect sense. There are preservationists who like to restore campers to their original condition and others who build in modern amenities while keeping the vintage look.

Campfires invite folks to gather and visit, tell stories, share a drink or the makings of s’mores. The evening really gets going when musicians show up with instruments to lead the group in old-time gospel, rock and roll, and folk singing.

Leaves sparkle overhead in the evening breeze from star showers projected into surrounding trees. While all rallies share certain common elements, each is as unique as the hosts who organize them, the park owners or managers and the settings in which they are held. We have found that hosts are among the friendliest and most accommodating people you will find at rallies.

Lots of laughter, great food and trailer talk goes with vintage Continued on page 35

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town. So, for those that are newer who thought the Open House was disappointing, I hope this explanation makes you feel better. -David Neel

Continued from page 32

been tailored to the PARTICIPANTS and their families who might be joining via rented cabins, local hotels, etc. It is an opportunity to go crazy with fashion shows, parades, Mimosas on Friday, parties, bike rides, hanging out at the pool, drinking games and other types of silliness that the public is not invited to and that you would get arrested if you tried doing such nonsense on any other weekend in your

Our Final Note: We host 3 Trailerfest Rallies and Boot Camp each year. Many hours are spent trying to accommodate everyones site requests. We have to work with the parks and their changes, maintenance, other reservations etc. Try as we may, there are only so many sites that are next to the bathroom, have shade, are level or are next to your friends (that either haven't registered yet or registered 3 months ago).

Harps RV Service

Our biggest challenge is cancellations. With a waiting list of about four dozen trailers, we have plenty of people that would like to make their vacation plans as soon as possible. Last minute cancellations make it difficult to fill sites and is not considerate of the host or other participants. Understand also that these are EVENTS, not just a camping trip. Sites, bands, food etc. must be reserved and paid for months in advance.

If you need to cancel an event, do so ASAP so someone else can use the site.

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Continued from page 33

camping. Many participants have restored their trailers or, at the very least, have done a lot to fix them up. Sharing ideas and helping each other with challenges that arise with older units is typical of conversations that go on throughout the weekend. We have never left a rally without some new helpful advice relating to our current restoration projects.

Ten years ago I never would have guessed that our lives would center so much around vintage camping as it does today.

Nor could I have imagined how life-giving this involvement has been for Diane and me. If you are not yet on board but are considering joining the vintage camping community, I am confident that you will be in for a great ride once you put your hands on that first vintage camper! And I know you will be warmly welcomed when you show up in the “neighborhood”.

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R E S C U E RESTORE R A L L Y

IN THE

USA

Ron Drake sent us the above images of the Lake Havasu trailer rally which was held last February 1-4. 56 trailers were at the rally.

Sent in by Barbara Harris

We just finished our latest project which is a 1977 Silver Streak Luxury Liner . It is headed to a 12.5 acre park on the Oregon Coast that was designed and developed to provide a truly unique opportunity for owners of tiny homes and vintage travel trailers to live or stay in on the Oregon coast. We are so honored to be a part of this project. -Katie Wiley

M

y name is Clayton Brown. My daughter got me a subscription to the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine for my 81st birthday. She knew I was in the process of restoring an old trailer. Labor Day 2016 I found my 1951 Nashua while on a drive in the country. The canned ham shape is what attracted me.

I stopped and asked if it was for sale and the owner told me I wouldn't want it because it was such a mess. I looked it over and had to agree with her. There had been two fires inside and the floor was about to fall out. The windows were broken and the door sagged in the middle. She agreed to sell it to me for $50.

I tore it down to the bare frame and built it back up from there. This photo is about 2 years from the time I bought it. -Clayton Brown, Central Point, OR

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Terry Bison Ranch 2018

W

e had a small (in numbers) but a big hearted group of trailer folks show along with the antique tractor gang. Friday afternoon proved that the Wyoming winds never sleep for very long. The canopies were packed as we "huddled" behind a shelter and made the best of it. Saturday the tractor gang showed up with donuts and presents. We added our gifts and had a most enjoyable day of causal visiting.

Not many visitors, so we had a day of mostly "us time". Saturday evening was a ranch dinner followed by a short meeting.

I want to thank Kathy and Glen Lefler from Custer, South Dakota with their 1954 Flint Rocket and her Dad and Brian Casson and his wife for bringing the Shiny Spartan. I couldn't have done without Sara MC Reynolds from East Texas for her group talent, succulent plants, knick-knacks and a 5 day old kitten. Thanks to all for being great folks, Orbie P.S. Don't laugh at the head gear. It worked for my Momma. (Upper Left) Submitted by: A.Watt (Orbie) Mungall

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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R E S C U E RESTORE R A L L Y

IN THE

USA

1956 Pontiac towing a 1956 Shasta

By Mark Deiman

I

have had a few Shastas is in my time and I’ve always liked the 1400 Dash. About five years ago I saw this one on Craigslist. Of course, it was approximately 500 miles from my house- from the east side of Minnesota into South Dakota. I called the gal that owned it, she was nice on the phone, said she would not be able to get to the Shasta to fix it up due to a change in life’s circumstances.

So a friend and myself left to go get it after she said she would hold it for me til I came to see it. We followed the directions she gave, going approximately 15 miles out of the town, looking for the mailbox she gave, which was the only one around anyway. A person could see for miles from where we were as we pulled into the drive way.

We noticed the barn was in need of repair, not many things in the yard just a few things strewn about, with an older fifth wheel camper sitting in the yard and not a house to be seen.

We stopped my truck. The gal selling the trailer and her husband came out to greet us and didn’t take long to show us the camper. I thought it was in great shape, original but well worth the drive.

In the back of my mind, I was hoping to get it for less than the asking price, until, through conversation, she explained they were selling everything because her husband had stage four cancer. I literally told God I was sorry for even trying to think of getting it for less.

We made the deal for the full asking price. My friend and I offered to pray for them as a couple, and to God who knows our sorrows and just for their peace, which they actually had.

We held hands in the middle of South Dakota- and praised our creator-I realize if this gets printed a lot of people blow this kind of occurrence off. Sorry, but this was an appointment.

Her only request was I send her a picture of the 1956 Shasta when it was done.

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W

e don’t know how many previous owners our 1968 Yellowstone Cavalier has entertained, but the latest owner used it to display her vintage dresses at Flea markets throughout Wisconsin. When we first saw it, exterior and interior looked good. Running lights worked and it had new wheels and tires so we towed it home.

I learned from your readers that I should have done the Ice Pick test, because once I started to remodel the unit, I found considerable dry rot and black mold.

F

or more than 20 years Doug Parrott has been building his one-of-a-kind "Air-Skimmer".

It is something between a teardrop and a tiny house.

Dougs 5'x10' trailer has many creature comforts. It has a color TV, AC and heat and is so well insulated it is practically soundproof. The walls are host to many examples of Doug's art work. Vibrant, colorful paintings of animals, people and travel-scapes.

"Is it finished", you ask? Doug can't say for sure. It's a journey, and Doug is still having fun in his 70's.

Our research tells us that the Yellowstone RVs were often sought after by the traveling circus, because they were well constructed of 2x2 material instead of 1x2 materials and have a 5-ton axle.

Yellowstone had 4 basic sizes, 16’ being the smallest. They were manufactured by the Yellowstone Coach Company of Wakarusa, Indiana We had no idea owning a vintage camper would be so much fun. Our Yellowstone never fails to get a “thumbs up” or a visit by someone who had one back in the day.

Fortunately I am a woodworker and my wife Kay is an interior designer. We decided not to restore the RV but to remodel it. We completely gutted and replaced much of the framing.

Bright and airy was our goal so we did the walls in white bead board and rebuilt all the cabinetry, all in white, but stayed with the original floor plan.

We did add a Microwave but the stove and sink are original which gave us our accent color.

A valuable lesson was learned. Take it for a short spin before taking it on a vacation.

Amazing what happens when your RV jiggles down the road.

The RV spirits seem to come out and move things around. On our first trip, we made it almost 4 miles before the door flew open and smashed my new screen door. The new doorknob needed a little tweaking.

Kay and I are now looking forward to participating in the vintage camper trailer rallies.

Larry and Kay Schroeder - Hartland Wisconsin

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1954 Westwood Holiday

W

e had b e e n looking for a long time for an old vintage camper to add to our collection. We had previously restored two other smaller vintage campers and needed a little more room to move around. We wanted one with a living room and a full bath, since the others didn't have those options. We found this 1954 across town and decided to look at it. It had been sitting for a while but we didn't know for how long.

The owner told me he used to live in it in Florida for vacations. His wife got sick and he decided to bring it back to Tennessee and that's where it had been sitting for over 20 years. It was so piled up with junk you couldn't get inside to look at it. The body was pretty sound, other than someone had backed into it with a lawnmower. It needed a complete restoration and I didn't know if I was up to the job. No one else had offered either.

IN THE

USA

We couldn't get it off our minds. We went back a year later and talked to him again.

His wife had passed away and he was needing to get rid of the trailer and we were ready to do business. We talked and he said he had the title and he went inside to get it. I just wanted to know how much he was asking for it. It was obviously a rare camper. He handed me the envelope and said if you think you can fix it up and restore it, it's yours. Free.

I was totally shocked. I hauled it home after a few hours of getting it road ready.

I started on it and it took a lot of man hours and a lot sweat and tears. We are not completely done yet. We have yet to decide on what to do to the outside. The stripe around it is gone now and I think it needs to be replaced to keep up the originality. We have never seen one in our travels other than one on the internet.

We are very proud to own this 1954 Westwood Holiday. I think about all of the states and campgrounds this camper might have seen. We are truly blessed to have found this one. - Marsha Torbett

Is it time to renew your subscription to The VCT MAGAZINE?

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PayPal will automatically renew you annually IIiIIIIIiiIIIIIIIIi II IIIII iii i i I IiiII IIIIIi I until you cancel. If you have not set up a ****************3-Digit 756 recurring payment, we have printed the THIS YOUR Last IS Issue: 21LAST ISSUE Joe Espinosa number of your last issue or the words "THIS 1234 Main Street IS YOUR LAST ISSUE" if your subscription Yourtown, ST 98765 has expired. (See the red arrow to the right.)

Gift a Friend WITH The VCT Magazine Use this form or subscribe to this magazine on-line at: www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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Start the subscription with ___ current issue ___next issue Phone (____________)_________________________ ___ Gift ___ New Subscriber ___ Re-newing $32.00 annually ($64 for two years) in the USA. Subscriptions outside of the USA must be done on-line.

Mail this form with a check to: PO Box 354 Elverta, CA 95626.

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A CUSTOM PAINTING OF YOUR TRAILER

A

n inner fire makes me long to paint; this fire frees my spirit and feeds my mind. The minute I put my brush on canvas or paper my thoughts seem to calm down, as if to focus and make sense ‘of it all’. This process often results in vibrant, bold color applications.

My approach is very simplified and focused by only using the three primary colors to create a limitless number of different shades, values and colors.

I started painting in watercolors in 2002 and have now spread my wings to acrylic and oil. This opened new horizons for me. I find myself coming back to my watercolors, changing to a looser style and trying to push myself to paint bigger.

www.simoneritterart.com

At the end of the day, I want to share not only a subject, but showcase the different ‘flavor’ each medium brings.

If my work reaches the viewer to take a moment- to look, to imagine and to take my invitation for a short break, I feel an immense honor and gratitude to have Prices Start at $120.00 been able to be part Simone has painted over 200 camper trailers and vintage vans over the past 5 years. She is a trailerite having owned a Shasta of their day.

Compact until just recently. She is currently looking for a bit larger camper to accommodate her growing family.

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Abandoned and derelict trailers as photographed by Bob Moore. Old advertising, mementos, and photos. Profusely illustrated, a must have for anyone who ever looked longingly at one of these homes on wheels 126 pages, soft-cover. $19.99

VintageCamperTrailers.com www.vintagecampertrailers.com

41

BEFORE THEY WERE VINTAGE

ZIMAIR Trailers Submitted by Robin Ellis

42

Zimair trailers was started by my cousin, Paul Zimmermann who was an aeronautical engineer, vice president and eventually the president of American Aeronautics Corporation. Zimair trailers started around 1936 in Los Angeles. Zimmermann employed his cousins and brothers Ollie, Lee, Frank Grannis and also Frank's son-inlaw Guy Strickler, as well as other relatives, wives and sister-in-laws.

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

Zimmermann was getting into other things and he lost interest in the trailer business and started Zimair welded wire products in Fort Worth, Texas. It is still in business today. Zimair trailers ultimately closed in the early 1940’s Guy Strickler loved building trailers so he started up Road Master Co. in El Monte, CA. In 1938. An advertisement for Road Master has his wife Dorothy in the kitchen area and his three boys at the table. My two uncles, Lee the business man, and Ollie the craftsman started the Continental Trailer Company in 1942 at 2821 W. Mission Rd. Alhambra, CA. One of the trailers they built was called the “Comet�.

Ollie built two trailers for himself. He put one in the back of his house.

He built another one for his Sister Eva (Eva was also employed by Zimmermann's). Us kids spent many a night sleeping over in those trailers. Uncle Lee bought himself a Zimair when he was working for the company and he and his wife traveled all over the USA in it.

My Dad eventually got one of Ollie's trailers and put it on the side of our house where it was used as my brother's bedroom. When I came home on leave from the service, I slept in it too. I always remember the the inside of the trailer, the craftsmanship, and the details. It was of high standards. I still can't figure out how they could do the curves on the cabinet corners so smooth.

After my dad sold the house to my sister, they used the trailer as a guest room. Someone always was living in it. In 1984 my sister sold the house and gave the trailer to a friend. When they moved it the wood underneath began to fall apart. I believe he still has the frame and I have been trying to contact him.

I got the California license plate off it many years ago and it's hanging in my garage. My Brother gave me the heater out of it. I'm on the search for the other trailer that my Uncle had but no one knows where it went. Here all this time I thought the family was involved with one trailer factory and nowI have learned that there were three!

See all of the photos and advertisements that we received on our website www.vintagecampertrailers.com. Use the search box to search ZIMAIR

My Uncle Lee. The kids are my Mom Betty and her brother Bob.

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

43

RESTORE

BRAKES

From Your Tow Vehicle and the Controller to Your Trailer's Brakes

By Mark Obtinario

Imagine if you will that you have surmounted a long hard grade and you are now at the top of the mountain. You are congratulating yourself that you made it up to the top of the hill without boiling over or burning anything up. Now imagine if you will that you are looking out at the vistas and saying to yourself this is what getting out on the road is all about. And then you look down at the long steep hill you now have to go down because staying up on top of the mountain is not an option.

Since staying up on top is not an option and curling up into the fetal position is not helpful, the only real option is to head down the hill.

If you have prepared yourself for the uphill grade so should you be prepared for the downhill grade.

Before you ever leave home there are two vital things that needed to be addressed.

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First, is the braking system on your tow vehicle. If your tow vehicle was built after WWI, it has some sort of hydraulic brake system. If it is new enough it will be four wheel anti-lock power assisted disc brakes. If it is like my 1965 IHC Travelall it will have four wheel unassisted drum brakes. What all hydraulic brake systems have in common is they use brake fluid to transfer the movement of your foot on the brake pedal to a braking action out on the wheel ends. The brake fluid is one of the most crucial components in the braking system and it is one of the most neglected systems on a vehicle.

Brake fluid, by its nature, is hygroscopic which means it attracts water. Over time that attraction displaces the hydraulic fluid and replaces it with water. Brake fluid has an extremely high boiling point that is quite a bit higher than water. As brake fluid gets older and the boiling point drops, the easier it will be to boil

all of your brake fluid out to the point you will have no service brakes left to stop you. At that point, you better hope your mechanical emergency brake is operable. Mercedes-Benz has recommended to annually replace and flush the brake systems on their cars ever since the advent of ABS in their

vehicles. I don't know that I would go that far, but if you have owned your tow vehicle for more than five years, and you haven't replaced and flushed out your brake systems, I would suggest you do so soon.

Second, you need to have a good working electric trailer brake controller that you have learned to use properly. Knowing how to adjust the gain (how hard the brakes will apply at 100%), how to adjust the timer (how quickly the brakes will apply from 0% to 100%), and how to use the manual override is extremely important.

Starting down a long downhill grade is not the time to be fiddling around with something new. One helpful hint is to mount your electric trailer brake controller up high enough that it is an easy reach from the steering wheel with the electronic display in a position you don't need to take your eyes off the road for very long to see it.

If you successfully climbed the grade to the top of the mountain there is every expectation that you can reach the bottom safely and in one piece. Just as there is no prize for reaching the top of the hill first there is no prize for making it to the bottom of the hill first. Going slow, even slow enough to require you to be using your four way flashers, is not a problem! Never go faster than the speed you are comfortable traveling.

As you gain experience and confidence you may find yourself going faster down the grade. At the same time don't get too over confident--speed can kill! Just be aware of the fact that it is relatively easy to speed up if you decide you are going too slow but it can be nearly impossible to slow down if you find yourself going too fast.

When you break over the top of the hill you need to determine what your safe speed should be. The safe speed is a variable which will change depending on the steepness of the grade, the length of the grade, road conditions, and the weather. The weight of your combination will also have an impact upon what your safe speed should be. Some long downhill grades have specific speed limits for different vehicles. The heavier the vehicle and the more axles the combination has the slower the speed limit will be. Those specific speed limits are not suggestions. Exceeding those speed limits could cost you greatly in speeding tickets, reckless driving tickets, or the worst that could happen-a runaway because you ran out of braking ability.

Every braking system uses friction

to trade speed for heat. The heat is dissipated from the brake drums/discs by the air running past them as you are traveling down the road. Excess use of the service brakes will cause the braking systems to heat up to the point the brakes begin to fade away. They will fade away to the point the brakes will lose all ability to slow you down or stop.

That is what is known as a runaway.

Since no service brake system on any vehicle can slow a vehicle down when gravity is working against you the braking ability of the engine must be used to do the majority of the downhill braking. Use the engine and transmission to keep you slowed down and use the service brakes to keep the speed from over revving the engine.

The rule of thumb for knowing which gear to use while going downhill is to use the same gear going downhill that you used to use while going up the hill you are now going down.

You need to know that automatic transmissions have a fail safe built into them that will cause the transmission to up shift if the engine gets turning too fast. This will happen even if the transmission manually selected into a lower gear. So you need to watch not only your wheel speed but your engine speed.

When using the service brakes you need to employ the stab braking method for downhill braking. When you use the stab braking method you allow the speed to go about 5 MPH over your safe speed, you then stab the brake pedal hard enough to feel a definite slow down until you are going about 5 MPH below your safe speed, and then release the brakes. By releasing the brakes you are allowing the brakes some time to not still be generating heat and the air rushing by to cool things down again.

And then repeat the process the rest of the way down the hill. If after letting off of the brakes you are almost immediately back up to your safe speed or to 5 MPH over the safe speed you are in at least one gear too high. If you have to add throttle to keep at your safe speed, you are in one gear too low.

As far as adjusting the electric trailer brakes are concerned, you want the timer to apply the brakes to 100% as soon as possible and you want the

gain turned up so that when the trailer brakes apply they are applying them hard enough that they are just about locking the wheels up. You want as much trailer braking that is possible as soon as that is possible because when you are going downhill pulling the string straight is of paramount importance. The last thing you want to happen is to have your trailer wanting to go first when you are going downhill.

Every person who has ever towed a trailer has had a first time up a mountain and a first time down a mountain. If you are like me you will retain a vivid memory of each of those firsts. But don't be shy about tackling those hills. If you have prepared properly and done a little practicing beforehand, when you get to the steep parts you will be ready. You will have butterflies in your stomach (I still get them if the hill is steep or long enough). But I don't know of anyone yet who has died as a result of butterflies in the stomach.

Replacing Electric Brakes On Your Vintage Trailer

By Tim Haworth A few years ago I decided to replace the electric brakes on our 1950 Aljoa Sportsman. I made a phone call to the local brake shop and discovered I could purchase a new set for less than $150. if they could match my old set. They were pretty confident that they could, so I dismantled one wheel and took the brake assembly in for them to look at.

As it turns out, they had a pair in stock, so I was literally a happy camper. Additionally, the new brake set had an adjustable feature.

Electric trailer brakes work much the same as drum brakes on cars and trucks. There are two brake shoes per wheel. These are fastened to the brake backing plate with their friction surfaces facing away from each other to form a circle on the inside of the brake drum.

The assembly includes an electromagnetic pad designed to come into contact with the disc surface of the brake drum. www.vintagecampertrailers.com 45

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The photos show the trailer jacked at the axle. I found out the hard way that it is much more difficult to remove the wheel when the trailer is jacked in this manner. For the other side, I chose a jacking point that allowed the wheel and the suspension to descend as I jacked the trailer. This makes it much easier to remove the wheel and have access to the hub.

By adjusting the current through the brake controller, you can adjust the braking action to fit the need. Electric brakes are really quite a simple design. The electromagnet is activated when you put on the brakes.

It grabs onto the armature of the drum and thus expands the brake pads outward. Brake assemblies are handed.

They must be installed so that they work in concert with the wheel rotation.

They will be marked left and right. Left is the driver’s side. The two wires are signal and ground. It does not matter which one you hook to ground, but be consistent for both sides. I recommend that you purchase enough new wire to connect the two brake systems together and to run the lead up to the trailer hitch.

I purchased 20’ of sheathed two-strand wire for our 12’ trailer.

First, get under your trailer with a flashlight and check the backing plate flange for bolts. You will see four or five nuts on the inside face of the mounting flange.

If you see no bolts, it is likely that your brake assembly is a welded unit and cannot be replaced without replacing the axle as well. If your brake assemblies are bolted on to the axle flange, then the brakes can probably be replaced. What follows is a brief guide to help you do it yourself. To start, you’ll need a floor jack or bottle jack, a pair of pliers, end wrenches, a socket and ratchet set, a torque wrench and a breaker bar if your bolts are rusted on. A penetrating lubri-

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cant will be helpful in loosening tight bolts. As you proceed with this repair, it is wise to take photographs so that you can reference them during re-assembly.

Jack up the trailer. Be sure to block the other wheel or hitch the trailer to your tow vehicle to prevent it from moving.

Remove the wheel and then the dust cap from the hub.

Looking at the hub (1) you will see a large nut with a cotter pin on the end of the spindle. This holds the brake drum and the bearings onto the axle.

Make a mental note of how many spindle threads are showing from the nut.

This will be a good reference when you put it back together. Remove the cotter pin and back off the nut. Now remove the retainer washer and the outer wheel bearing. It should slide off in your now greasy hand. Set these aside on a clean shop rag. Remove the brake drum and the inner bearing and shield. Put the inner bearing assembly with the other parts on the clean cloth. Keep them in the same order for re-installation. You’re now looking at the brake assembly (2).

Four or five bolts hold it onto the axle flange. These are through bolts, so there are nuts and washers on the inner side of the flange. Determine the wrench sizes you’ll need and remove the bolts.

Disconnect the two wires and the backing

(2)

plate and brake assembly is off the trailer (3).

Take the brake assembly, the hub and the bearings to your brake shop to see if they can provide a matching set. Have them look at the bearings to see if you need to replace them. You may need to have the drums turned as well. Before you leave the shop, ask for a cup of axle grease so you can repack your bearings when you re-install them. The brake assemblies come as a complete unit. You just have to install them onto the axle flange, tightening the bolts in an alternating pattern. The recommended torque is 45-70 pounds for a 3500 lb. axle. Ask your brake supplier for the torque requirements for your assembly.

Once you have installed the new brake assembly, you can repack and install the inner bearings, the wheel hub, the outer bearings and the retainer washer. Install the nut and tighten it down until the wheel hub will not turn. Back the nut off about one turn. The wheel hub should rotate smoothly with no end-play. It is better to have the wheel loose rather than tight.

Insert the cotter pin and bend the ends back. Install the dust cap and the wheel.

Repeat the process for the other side and install the new wiring. Your final step will be to take the trailer on a test run to check the brakes and set the controller.

(3)

USE ONLY TRAILER RATED TIRES ON YOUR TRAILER. Trailer tires (sidewalls mainly) are constructed for the rigors of towing. Running automotive tires is a bad idea that can lead to problems and possibly liability if their failure causes an accident.

Vintage Tires

Trailer tires usually don’t wear out unless something is misaligned and they wear irregularly. They usually just get too old. There is a date code on the side of tires in the format WWYY (where WW = the week and YY = the year) of when the tire was manufactured. If the code does not have that format, the tire is likely over 20 years old.

Trailer tires must be replaced after 10 years from the manufacture date. This is cheap insurance for your vintage trailer. When a tire blows or separates it will usually tear up the trailer fender, belly pan and even the interior.

Pressure

Every tire has the maximum pressure on printed on the sidewall. Proper tire pressure gives you better gas mileage.

Radials or Bias Ply?

Tim Heintz says...

I personally use both types of tires with Radial Trailer Tires being used for my smaller trailers under 20’ long, they seem to provide a smoother ride for light trailers although they can bounce a little depending on rough road conditions.

Another down fall of Radials are the possibility of the steel belt causing damage to your trailer in the event of a tread blow out.

For my larger trailers (21’-40’) and weighing upwards of 10,000+ pounds I prefer Bias Trailer Tires due to their thicker sidewalls. I find for larger trailers that bias tires provide a smoother ride, I can accelerate easier, there is less bounce (with the weight of heavy trailers), they allow for longer coasting (less surface drag on the road) and best of all it has even improved my gas mileage as much as 1 MPG when towing some of the largest trailers.

Propane Cylinders

FACTS

TIRES

photo courtesy www.vintagetrailersupply.com

Propane cylinders (or tanks) on vintage trailers are commonly a #20 (5gal.), #30 (7gal.) or #40 (10 gal.) size.

Propane cylinders used on vintage trailers are considered portable by the Dept. of Transportation and are subject to DOT regulations. They must be re-qualified by a licensed propane company every 5 years.

Propane cylinders must have a modern style valve or OPD (overfill protection device) in order to be re-qualified and refilled. Should your propane cylinder have an outdated valve this can be replaced by a licensed propane company and re-qualified at that time.

Regulator:

Propane appliances require a regulator to operate properly.

The regulator is located at the cylinder. These are subject to corrosion, insects and moisture over time. It is recommended that you replace the regulator as part of the restoration of your propane system.

Propane Lines:

Typically propane lines on vintage trailers are made from soft copper tubing or iron pipe. Some sections may be rubber tubing. Inspect the lines for any obvious damage, cracks or wear.

Clearing the lines is recommended and should be done with compressed air. Always disconnect all appliances and the propane cylinder prior to this process. Blow compressed air into each end of the line until moisture and debris are cleared.

Propane Appliances:

Determine there are no missing parts. Look for any obvious damage and uninvited guests. i.e. rodent nests, spider webs etc. Thoroughly clean the appliance before beginning to test the unit. (VCT Boot Camp offers a class on cleaning and troubleshooting appliances.)

Pressure and/or Leak Testing:

This process should be done after the propane regulator, lines and/or appliances have been repaired or replaced. A manometer (low pressure gauge) is required to do a pressure test and a spray bottle of soapy water will be needed to determine where any leaks are.

Safety First

Using fueled appliances in your vintage trailer can increase the risk of high levels of propane gas and carbon monoxide. A detector alerts you to potentially dangerous levels of gas in your vintage trailer. Protect your family from both with one detector. Invest in a fire extinguisher too, just in case. Both are available at camping stores.

Consult a licensed propane professional should you have any questions or concerns regarding restoration of the propane system in your vintage trailer.

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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FLOOR COVERING

Save Money and Do-It Yourself like a Pro

By Ed Gardner

It all starts with careful floor prep. Start by removing any baseboard molding and cabinets. It is far easier to cover the entire floor with fewer cuts around obstacles. You will have a cleaner finished job (and it probably doesn’t take any more time) to remove things like the dinette pedestals and run the flooring underneath them. Think of the nice clean edges you will have.

hazardous material. V.A.T. and solid sheet vinyl flooring actually makes a great floor to install a new floor over. They're solid vinyl and as long as it's clean (I'll use a lacquer thinner wipe down), it accepts any new flooring. If you find that the flooring is secure and stable but maybe a little gapped or slightly raised, use "Ardex Feather Finish", it's mentioned further down in this article.

We often see DIY's posting pictures of exhausting flooring removal, prior to the installation of a new floor. Flooring removal, in most cases, is a step that can be skipped altogether. You'll get the best result when installing a new floor over a flat level surface, whether it's an existing floor or new underlayment.

Subfloor and Underlayment. These are two different terms,

Before you take on any flooring renewal / replacement project, ask yourself this question "is my floor solid and intact". Here's how to determine whether you'll need to remove any or all of your flooring, underlayment or subfloor. You can check with an ice pick(the tool I prefer), or any sharp instrument. Check each side of the door, under the corners of the windows. The floor around the stool, under the sinks and around wheel wells. The nice benefit of an ice pick is if you don't find any damage, the holes are easily filled with colored caulk.

Vinyl Asbestos Tile, also known as in the flooring industry as V.A.T. These are the 9" X 9" tiles that were used throughout the trailer industry. A lot of manufacturers also used sheet vinyl that contained asbestos.

These products aren't necessarily bad or hazardous to your health, unless you actually create an airborne dust from the flooring (typically by sanding them), they're not considered a 48

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1955 Spartan with all of the cabinetry removed, new 3/8" underlayment and floated out with a leveler. @midcenturymobile

don't mistake one for the other. "Subfloor" is the thicker base of your floor structure. When trailers of yesteryear were built, the subfloor was of a higher quality material, than used today. Flooring at the factory could be installed directly on the subfloor. If you need to make repairs to your subfloor because of soft spots you can do that as needed. Cut out the affected area as needed and replace with appropriate thickness material, usually 5/8" or 3/4".

Underlayment is the thinner material used on top of the subfloor, where applicable. Usually carried at the big box home improvement stores, it comes in 5mm-7mm thickness.

When going over a rough surface or a subfloor that has needed soft spots to be repaired, it gives you a new surface to install your flooring over. It's an easy way to give you a fresh new surface in which to install your new Forbo Marmoleum flooring over the top of, without having to remove the existing flooring.

Telegraphing is a term used when you install a new flooring over an existing patterned vinyl. Eventually the existing pattern will "telegraph" through the new flooring, with time and traffic. See paragraph below to prevent telegraphing.

If you find that your floor is solid, you're in luck. There's a product called "Ardex Feather Finish". It's a cement based product that you mix to a peanut butter consistency. Use either a cement finishing trowel or a wide blade putty knife to spread across your existing flooring surface to fill in the pattern, this also will prevent telegraphing. . Once this product dries (follow directions) it gives you a nice flat surface in which to install your new flooring over.

Templates are used in many different applications to get the right fit before you cut your expensive material.

(Photo taken at Boot Camp trimming laminates.)

Templates This method works well if you are installing sheet goods and have to work around existing cabinets, walls or seating. Any heavy paper will work for this template. We use red (or natural) rosin paper rolls, available at most home centers.

Tiles can be cut to a

"vintage" 9"x9" or smaller size to fit the scale of the trailers floor.

There are many flooring choices for your vintage trailer.

Ceramic tile and carpet are two options that are probably better choices for your home than your trailer. Ceramic tile is heavy and carpet (unless indoor/outdoor) will be difficult to keep clean while camping. Other choices include the different vinyl, cork and wood type floorings. Many trailerites opt for the checkerboard look that tile squares can create. A more costly, but very durable traditional vintage look is achieved with Marmoleum. It is a natural linoleum flooring made by Forbo that comes in sheets, tiles & floating click planks.

If you want a checkerboard or other patterned floor VCT or Vinyl Composition Tile is a cost effective solution at less than a dollar a square foot. It is commercial grade and can be special ordered in a variety of colors at any home improvement store. (Don’t waste your time with peel and place, pre-glued squares.) VCT squares can be cut to create unique patterns or to “scale” them to better fit the look of a vintage trailer. (Vintage tiles were often 9”x9”.)

Tiles can be cut with a fine toothed plywood blade on a table saw for clean edges.

Consider the look and type of restoration you are doing. The flooring can either blend in or give the trailer a blast of color.

The flooring should match the décor and lend to the overall feel. Invest in good material and you won’t be disappointed.

Track-house kitchen vinyl, in an otherwise vintage restoration, just isn’t right.

1. Tape a run of paper in a large area of the floor to be covered. This piece needs to be secure so your template does not move. Do not make any cuts in this piece of paper.

2. Work off of your first piece of paper with smaller pieces of paper. Work around the perimeter of the space taping the smaller pieces of paper to your first piece.

3. Fill the entire space by placing the straight edge of the smaller pieces of paper up against the wall or cabinet and taping them to the larger piece. Do not tape the smaller pieces to the floor.

4. Fill the entire space then carefully remove the pattern from the trailer and tape it to your new flooring material. Use a straightedge to transfer the exact cut line to your flooring material.

Fitting Tiles: Start laying tiles from a center line established in the area to be covered. First, lay all of the uncut tiles in the “field” that do not need to be cut. For tiles that will need to be cut to length, place the tile directly on top of the last full tile near the wall. Place another tile against the wall, overlapping the loose tile. Mark and cut the first loose tile using the overlapping tile as a guide. The cut tile will then fit against the wall. For irregular shaped cuts make a template out of paper or cardboard before you make your cuts.

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ROTTEN WOOD REPAIR How-To Tackle a Common Issue

By Paul Lacitinola

A view from the front with the aluminum, framing and interior panel removed. This process gives you access to everything.

The extra board under the window is to securely mount the table rail to from the inside.

1

950’s canned hams were not built to last for over 60 years. One of the most detrimental things to a vintage camper trailer is moisture damage. Water can weep in to the smallest of cracks, typically around windows and the vents in the ceiling. If you are doing a restoration, some of the interior wood panels will likely need to be replaced.

This repair can be daunting to the amateur without some tips. These photos are of a repair we did to a 1954 Terry.

I have replaced interior wood paneling by wrestling the old piece out, attempting to reinforce portions of rotted framing and struggling to twist, bend and force the replacement panel in to place. It seems like this is the “easiest” or “only way “to tackle a repair to a ceiling vent seal that failed long ago. This technique works well for the most common repairs to the center section of the trailer; ceiling vent, front and rear windows.

Most people I have shared this method with are initially resistant, thinking it is more work than necessary. Later they thank me for the tip. While it may seem a bit extreme, it allows you to do all of the necessary repairs because it gives you access to the panels as well as the framing.

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New insulation can be this blanket style or solid foam. We have used both on various builds.

Back together with original skins; just need to reinstall the window.

Considering that the trailer was originally built from the inside out; disassembling it in the same matter only makes sense.

Before you begin this process make sure you will not have to move the trailer until the job is finished. (Moving the trailer can take it out of square.) In order to access the panel that needs repair we work from the outside in. Removing the exterior skin to do the repair from the exterior as opposed to wrangling sheets of plywood from the inside. To remove the exterior skin you must first remove the J-molding, (photo opposite page top), all of the windows and vents. The center section of aluminum skin of a canned ham is bent ½” over the top of the side skin. It is stapled, tacked o r nailed to the wood framing. All of these fasteners (up to where you will be lifting the roof) have to be removed. A pry tool works best for this task. (Photo right).

Once you have the center section loose, there will likely be a piece of aluminum siding under the window that is separate from the roof piece.

It may slip into an s-lock (or similar Pittsburgh lock) in the

Just some of the many patterns that are offered by Hemet Valley RV. Almost any pattern can be achieved.

Mesa patterns also come in 2”, 3” and 4” patterns.

roof panel. If you are working from the front of the trailer this piece may be damaged from turning too tight with a finned 1950’s car, dings from years of rocks pelting it or other unidentified dents, holes or tears. Aluminum skin replacement is not that difficult. Hemet Valley RV can match the pattern in your aluminum skin and FedEx a replacement panel to you for less than you might think. You can see just a few of the patterns available on the preceding page. Once you remove the lower piece you may want to install some cross braces so the trailer sidewalls do not move. (Notice that I don’t say “stay square” as I have never found one that is square to begin with.)

DO NOT REMOVE THE ROOF PANEL unless you will be replacing it (Hemet Valley RV also has options for roof panels.) Peel the roof back as far as needed to access the vent or other repair areas. Support the panel with a simple 2x4 frame (shown to the left below) or a rope system from the shop ceiling (we have used both.) If you are doing repairs under the front window and rear window, do one, reattach the center aluminum section to the repaired area, then do the rear. You want to avoid removing the old roof/center section that covers the top of the trailer if you plan to re-use it. It is almost impossible to re-fit the existing roof once you have done the repairs. If you do remove it completely you may have to order and fit a new roof panel.

With the roof peeled back you can see the simplicity of the construction of the frame work. (middle photo) Remove the framing and then the damaged paneling. You now have a clean slate to put your trailer back together. We pre-finish the replacement panels before installing them. Replace the interior panel, repair and/or replace the framing and insulation. Now is also a good time to make any electrical repairs or additions. Align the original roof panel with the existing holes from the nails that attached it to the frame and reattach it in the reverse order that you took it apart. Reinstall the J-molding and windows with butyl tape (From Vintage Trailer Supply or Harps RV.) If this process still seems out of your reach, any of the trailer restorers that advertise in this magazine can do these repairs for you or certainly recommend a reputable restorer/hobbyist that can help you get your interior rally ready!

The Process of Wood Framing Repairs By Tim Brown Inspection/Disassembly 1. Start by removing all windows. This will expose some of the softer/rotten wood areas around them. We remove them to re-seal them with butyl putty tape so this is not a wasted step.

2. Remove all J moldings (corner moldings). Expose any water damage to corners.

3. Remove front and rear aluminum skins. Then proceed to removing roof vents and roof sheeting.

This exposes all wood damage to view from the outside.

It’s easier to replace wood from the outside as opposed to the inside. Keep a sharpie handy and take lots of measurements of window, door and vent placement.

You can write these measurements onto the exposed exterior wood. Take pictures of the panels with written measurements as you disassemble each area to replace.

This becomes the blueprint for future reference.

It’s important that the new window and vent openings remain in the exact same place or your skins will not fit. You need the skin to line up correctly when it gets reinstalled. While on this subject, don’t throw anything away at this stage. It can be really helpful to go get that rotten piece later and see how it was made. We find it easier to copy than reinvent.

In a canned ham, do not remove all the rotted wood all at once.

Take a 3 stage approach to replacing the wood framing and interior panels.

The front of a 1959 Shasta with the skin removed to repair wood framing.

FIRST Remove the aluminum n the front end of

the camper from the floor to the first seam above the front window. Many times it needs all new wood in this area. Remove and replace all damaged areas.

SECOND Approach the rear end in the same

manner. From the floor up to above the rear window.

Do not move on until the front and rear ends have been reassembled and are structurally solid.

THIRD Remove roof/top area from above the front window back to the rear window to make necessary repairs.

The key to this process is that by following this 3 step approach, it helps to keep the framing of the camper "square" (or at least how it was originally assembled). It also breaks these operations down to prevent you from becoming overwhelmed with the whole job. www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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ALUMINUM SIDING

Replacing Siding is a Very Do-able Repair

By Paul Lacitinola

Measuring RV Siding

New siding is installed from the top down. Windows, doors and edges are trimmed after panels are secured to the frame.

R

estoring a vintage trailer, as opposed to buying a finished one, offers you the opportunity to choose the finishes and amenities that suit your style. The largest surface being the exterior siding (predominately aluminum) can be restored in several different ways.

If metal is off coach: measure from the top of the metal to the bottom of the S-lock and add 2-1/4.

If metal is on coach: measure the exposed face add 2-3/4.

Common Terms

1. Original Patina- If the original paint is intact, why mess with it.

Sometimes less is more. Don’t be ashamed if your budget or personal style is attracted to the possibility of preserving your trailer’s natural beauty.

2. Paint- There are many different types of paint that can be used on the exterior of trailers. Everything from exterior house paint, industrial metal paints to high quality automotive paints. Paint is a popular choice with a variety of options that would require its own article to cover all of the possibilities.

3. Polishing- Shiny trailers get a lot of attention. Achieving that reflective shine is A LOT of work. It requires some practice, products and equipment to attempt it yourself. Having a trailer polished by a professional will cost over $100 per foot and requires a fair amount of maintenance to keep it up.

4. Replacing the Siding- You may consider replacing siding that is damaged. Replacing the exterior siding can also be an option to completing the curb appeal of your project. New aluminum siding can be ordered in a variety of patterns and custom lengths. You can order it in painted or polished finishes to suit whatever look you are 52

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Roof Seam for Factory Sealed Edge

Auto Mold Edge

S Lock

going for. (www.hemetvalleyrv.net)

ble the trailer siding, pay attention to how it comes apart. To install the new siding you will simply reverse the process.

Restoring a vintage camper trailer yourself can present many seemingly impossible tasks that may be more do-able than you think. Taking apart your first trailer can be scary until you realize how simple the construction of a canned ham is. Dented aluminum siding, water damage & rot to interior panels and frame-work, are all typical reasons that the skins may need to come off. With the skins (siding) removed you can really assess the structural repairs that need to be made. After making the necessary repairs to the wooden framework, do you put the old siding back on or opt for new aluminum?

In these photos, Tim Brown is doing a complete exterior re-skinning. The customer wanted a polished trailer and some of his original skins were dented and other areas had small dings. Rather than polishing, they decided to re-skin the trailer with polished aluminum crafted by Hemet Valley RV in a “very close to original” pattern. The pictures show that the sides of the trailer were covered first. Measuring up from the bottom of the trailer, a chalk line was snapped where the top of the bottom section would sit. With that mark the top piece is stapled into place along the top and bottom edge. It is left untrimmed and hangs over on the ends. The bottom piece of siding is slipped up in to the “S-Lock” joint at the bottom of the top piece. The “Auto Mold” detail at the bottom of this panel wraps under the wooden frame for a finished look. The bottom of this panel is stapled underneath the trailer into the “Auto Mold” detail so the staples are not visible unless you are underneath the coach.

If you are going to put the old siding back on it is imperative that all of The sides of the trailer go your window placements on first and are trimmed and anything that needs before installing the roof to “line-up” with the origiand end pieces. nal siding are in the same place. Aluminum is unforgiving in that it will bubble and wrinkle if forced to adhere to a shape it doesn’t want to.

(As a side note it is often easier to replace a panel than try to repair a dented piece of aluminum. Aluminum stretches when hammered and is usually more time consuming to do body work on it than just changing out the damaged panel for a new one.)

Replacing all of the aluminum on your trailer can be the answer to many issues. Years of wear and tear to the soft bodied aluminum may be best fixed with all new skins. Pre-painted aluminum is very durable and the pre-polished material can save hours of polishing and provides results that will “WOW” admirers wherever you go. Hemet Valley RV can help you with measuring and all of the other details to make your project go smoothly. They ship the material to you by Fed Ex so it doesn’t matter where you are calling from. (We received 13’ panels of polished material delivered to our door.)

To replace all of your siding you will need to remove the old siding. Use scrap lumber to diagonally brace the trailer so it does not move out of square. It is best not to move the trailer once the siding is off. The siding offers a lot of shear support and the trailer is not as stable when bare. As you disassem-

Fasten the side panels with a minimum number of staples until the windows have been installed. The windows are easy to cut out from the inside by drilling a hole from the inside and using a high speed metal saw. Install the windows to help hold the metal down. Remove any of the staples holding the panel (if needed) to relieve any “pillowing” of the aluminum.

(Remember to cut out at least one window you can climb through to cut out the door!)

Both sides are completed in the same fashion prior to the center (roof) section being installed. At this point you can trim the overhang off of the ends of the trailer, following the curves. We used a cutting wheel to cut through the “S-Lock” and a high speed metal saw for the rest. Similar to the sides, snap a line where you want the “S-Lock” to land.

Attach the top piece, then slide the bottom piece (or pieces) into the “S-Lock” joint. The “S-Lock” has a slot that holds the piece of siding that is below it, in place. The "bottom" piece slides up into the S-lock of the upper panel and does not require staples in the edge held by the S-lock.

Once the top skin (roof) is in place, trim and fold 3/4 of an inch over the edge and over the newly installed siding and staple it down. This takes some patience and practice. Take your time and you will get the hang of it. After that it’s time to install butyl tape and j-moulding.

Note: The pre-polished aluminum comes coated with a protective plastic film. It makes the finish look “dull” in these photos. www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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RESTORE

NO LEAKS ALLOWED

Waterproofing Your Trailer with Sealants Spring and Fall are the most popular times to rally.

Weather is typically more cooperative than in the heat of Summer or a frigid Winter.

The more you camp and rally, chances are you will experience an unexpected rain shower. If you store your trailer out doors you must make sure that it is watertight. Easier to seal it up than to make the repairs caused by moisture damage later.

John Abbott of Retro RV’s in Phoenix, AZ (www.retrorvs.com) and Scott and Wendy Campbell of Retroluxe Vintage Trailers, El Dorado, CA (www.retroluxevintagetrailers.com) helped with this how-to guide to waterproofing trailers. Both of these shops can also help you service your trailer if you don’t want to attempt it yourself. The products suggested here can be purchased from Vintage Trailer Supply or Harps RV.

FINDING LEAKS Don’t wait until you have warped, rotten or moldy panels. By the time you see leaks on interior panels, chances are you also have rot in the frame work of your wood framed trailers.

We do pressurized tests to find leaks and then verify that we fixed them.

There’s a fancy tool, or you can use a large “squirrel” fan rolled up to the door. Seal the rest of the doorway opening using brown paper and blue tape and turn on the fan. Spray the outside of seam and windows and such with a soap solution. Large bubbles will form for the smallest leaks. Take pictures of the bubbles on your phone to reference while sealing. Rinse off the trailer and let it dry before grabbing the Vulkem and syringe. Let the Vulkem dry overnight before retesting.

Replacing Your Drip Caps

Vintage Trailer Supply can send you new painted drip caps, but what if you want polished or brushed aluminum?

Use a propane torch to heat the metal and the paint almost disappears. Clean with water and a scuff pad and polish them if you like. Watch the video: www.vintagetrailersupply.com.

Search for: "Vintage Style Drip Cap"

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TremPro 635 is the modern version of the legendary Vulkem polyurethane sealant. It is a technologically advanced no-VOC silylated polyurethane. It meets or surpass the performance of the old polyurethanes like Vulkem and Sikaflex 221 in transportation applications in every meaningful way.

It utilizes a solvent-free technology, which represents technical advances over existing polyurethane systems. TremPro 635 is specially designed for use as a topical sealant in the fabrication of trailers, trucks, campers, buses, trains and specialty vehicles. TremPro 635 demonstrates excellent physical properties regarding adhesion, vibration, movement, shear strength and weather-ability.”

Waterproofing Tips

1

3

2

4

Resealing windows, doors, roof vents and drip rails (aka J moulding), completely clean the area to be sealed by removing all old sealant, silicone and dirt. Use lacquer thinner to remove any old wax or oils left behind. Lacquer thinner works best because it cleans great, removes everything and completely evaporates. Most trailer paint is either baked enamel or a paint that will tolerate limited exposure to lacquer thinner.

Resealing drip rails: prior to installing the drip rails apply Trem Pro 635 Polyurethane to the area that will be covered by the drip rail, we cover the roof edge seam,(where the top skin is folded over the side walls) staples and screw holes. Trem Pro 635 is available from Vintage Trailer Supply, it comes only in gray, not a problem since it will be covered by the drip rail.

Rain Happens.

Butyl Putty is a pliable nonhardening 100% butyl mastic.

It is a superior replacement for the original non-butyl putty tape used on vintage travel trailers. It is tacky and, unlike old fashioned putty tape, does not harden over time.

It is used when installing moldings, windows, doors and vents. It waterproofs overlapping metal and seals around fasteners when they are inserted through the tape.

The gray putty tape comes in 30 feet rolls and can be trimmed to width with a utility knife.

Available in 4 different Dimensions: 1/2” x 1/16” thick 3/4” x 1/16” thick 1/2” x 1/16” thick 3/4” x 1/16” thick

Attach the new or cleaned drip rail, windows, and vents using Butyl tape. Note: Using butyl tape in warm or hot weather is a nightmare. It will stick to everything and get everywhere and is a major pain to clean up once it sticks. Store butyl tape in the fridge and keep it cold. It is easier to work with when it is cooler. After the rails are installed, preferably while it is still cold, trim off the excess that oozed out when you tightened down the screws.

Silicone, the final step. This is optional, and sometimes controversial step. Using masking tape, mask a clean straight line about 1/8” from the top corner of the roof to the drip rail. On most canned ham vintage trailers the drip rails are bare aluminum, we have found that using aluminum colored silicone is the way to go, once the silicone is applied, smoothed by using your pointer finger with appropriate gloves and the masking tape is removed, you have a very clean looking sealed drip rail. This method can also be applied to windows, vents, doors and any other place where sealing bare aluminum is needed. Do not use white or clear or universal (cheap) silicone. It will fail and end up looking dirty and discolored within a short period of time.

These steps provided by Retroluxe.

Despite common mythology, silicone sealants are safe for aluminum and do have an important (but narrow) place in vintage trailer restoration.

While we recommend using only polyurethanes (like TremPro 635 and 636) for most applications, silicone works better in a few applications. Here are a few examples: 1. Use as a plastic to metal adhesive (like applying the finish bead to Fan-Tastic vents and fans).

2. Use as a glass to metal adhesive (like bedding 1966 and 1967 Airstream Corning glass).

3. Use as a weatherstrip adhesive for silicone rubber weatherstrips and gaskets.

4. Use as a caulk when doing plumbing with kitchen and bath fixtures.

TremPro 644 RTV is specially designed for sealant joints between most non-porous materials such as glass, aluminum, metal and metal alloys.

Captain Tolley’s Creeping Crack Cure can find and fix mystery leaks without having to take everything apart. This is a one-part water-based acrylic co-polymer penetrating sealant.

The Creeping Crack Cure is so thin that using capillary action it can find its way right inside fine seams and joints to set to a clear flexible seal. It traces mystery leaks. The rapid absorption of the sealant into the seam indicates the potential leak.

Even excellent conventional sealants cannot do that.

There’s no need to remove old sealants. You just apply the sealant along the line of a crack or joint until no more is absorbed. It is waterbased and non-toxic.

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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Evaluate

Your Trailer's

What is your trailer worth? The easy answer is “what someone is willing to pay for it.” The other part of the equation is “what would it take for you to part with it?” If you are concerned with the value of your trailer, you are likely either going to sell it, or insure it. If you are insuring your trailer you will probably need a professional appraisal to meet the needs of the insurer. The following is how we evaluate the asking price for a trailer we are going to sell.

“I have this really RARE trailer, so it’s worth a lot!”

We collect pre-1969 trailers.

They are all over 50 years old and most all of the manufacturers are long out of business. They are ALL rare.

They all have value, but rarity does not automatically make something more valuable.

More important that a coach be desirable year, make, model, style etc., that many people want. A “rare”, one-ofa-kind trailer, has much less value if no one wants it.

Supply and Demand Definition: the amount of goods and services that are available for people to buy compared to the amount of goods and services that people want to buy. If less of a product than the public wants is produced, more can be charged for the product.

More than any other factor, the market dictates the price. With a limited supply, and a growing demand, vintage trailer values have risen. There is no trailer “bluebook” to reference for vintage trailer values. Social media can lead you astray if you read the comments by opinionated but uneducated commentators that think they know the value of someone else's trailer having only seen a few photos and reading a brief description.

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$

VALUE

Two important factors that determine a trailer's value: • Condition. Restored, refurbished and even just campable or “useable” trailers can have considerably more value than a trailer needing a lot of work. Restoring trailers can be expensive and time consuming. Buyers are more willing to pay for something that needs less work or that they can use "as-is" and personalize it.

10 Things That Impact the Value of a Vintage Trailer: 1. Most buyers are looking for smaller trailers under 16’. Larger trailers, over 28’ have a more limited pool of buyers.

2. A bathroom (toilet/shower) add a great deal of value for most buyers.

3. Recognized brands like Airstream, Shasta and Spartan can be more valuable because they are names that even first-time buyers know.

4. A “stylized” or “themed” trailer will appeal to fewer potential buyers and may reduce the selling price.

Traditional or original style builds tend to appeal to more people.

5. Buyers tend to be attracted to shiny aluminum, light blue and pink trailers.

6. The original look of amber wood interiors is a big draw for buyers. A painted interior can brighten the space and be a good solution for a quick fix, but may not appeal to some potential buyers.

7. Rounder, (canned ham) styles tend to be more popular than “boxier” models.

8. More windows, more value. Holiday Houses and Trolley Tops are good examples.

9. Newer trailers (1970 and later) are worth less than the earlier models. These trailers can be a great option for those new to the hobby and can be a good value with more amenities like AC. 10. Title status impacts the value of a trailer if the registration is delinquent and there are back-fees.

If there is no title, the number of potential buyers, that are willing to take care of that paperwork on their own, will be smaller.

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

• Location. Where the trailer

is located can affect the value. If you are in California, Oregon, Washington, Texas or Florida your trailer may have more value than if your are located remotely or in areas where there are not as many people in the hobby.

If you are selling a trailer, and trying to come up with an asking price, start with what would you like to get for it?

What do you have invested in time and materials? How quickly do you want (or need) to sell it? Look on-line and see what similar trailers are listed for in your area. The price you will see posted on-line is the asking price, not necessarily the selling price. Trailers posted for sale for a long time, or repeatedly on Craigslist, are likely overpriced (or they would have sold). If your trailer is in great condition, start at a higher price and see what kind of response you get. If it doesn’t move, you can always lower your asking price. Be careful not to price it so high that you get no calls because buyers think the price is ridiculous. My goal is NOT to price a trailer so the phone rings off the hook. I want to get calls from a handful of qualified buyers (that appreciate the value) and sell it to one of them. If I can do that, I know I have sold it for what I wanted to get, and the buyer got it for what they were willing to pay. -PAUL

US A Rally Calendar

We do our best to confirm all events before press but plans do change. Make sure and call to confirm.

Many times rallies have an open house on Saturday to view the trailers. Call to confirm the rally is open to the public if not stated.

Listing your rally on this calendar is FREE, just let us know in advance. We also offer cheap display ad rates for rallies if you want your event to stand out. Paid ads include a listing on our website and Facebook page events calendar.

November 1- 4, 2018 Lake Havasu City, AZ Havasu Round Up, At the Rodeo Ground.

Sara Park, 7260 Sara Parkway. All vintage trailers come and join us fun camp out, $10.00 per night camping fee, dry-camping.

Meet and greet Friday 6:00p.m. Bring a hors d’oeuvre (snack) to share and your own beverage. Pot luck Sat evening, 5:00pm (for campers). Wear your best Western Gear-prize for the best outfit and a prize for the best or unusual decorated trailer,. Open House 10am-3pm Fri and Sat. jra@cnw. com, pay when you arrive, Cherri and Mike Aiken (928) 505-2730 November 2- 4, 2018 Kernville, CA Rivernook RV. 14001 Sierra Way 760-3762705 Make reservations with the park directly. Tell them you are with the Vintage trailer group. Phil & Wendy at 951-520-3118.

November 2- 4, 2018 Jackson, CA Rancheria Rally. 11407 Dalton Road. Located at the beautiful Jackson Rancheria RV Park. Third annual Rancheria Rally.

Join us for a fun weekend with friends who love the 'vintage' lifestyle. Come out before the weather turns cold and rainy. No Open House. Greg and Wendy Burns rancheriarally@yahoo.com 209-605-1305 November 7-11, 2018 Live Oak, FL Gathering of the Times 2018. 3076 95th Dr, Live Oak, FL 32060. Join us on the banks of the beautiful Suwanee River for a vintage trailer rally to remember. Please visit our website, www.gatheringofthetimes.com, .

Open House. Pete Whitley pete_whitley@ yahoo.com 678-378-3725.

January 31 – February 3, 2019 Lake Havasu City, AZ State Park (WINDSOR BEACH-Over Flow Lot) 699 London Bridge Rd. Limited spaces! Beautiful setting on the beach! First timers are always welcomed! No dues, no meetings. Potluck on Sat. evening, coffee in the morning at the group area. Please reserve, pay when you arrive. Open house for the public, from 10am until 3pm on Friday and Saturday. (Park cost $3.00 per person to come into the park). Demonstrations on Dutch oven cooking and care for Dutch ovens Friday and Saturday afternoon. dry camping, there will be a plug in to plug in cell phones, etc. Power available for medical devices only. There are showers and restrooms. Cherri and Mike, hosts Call (928) 505-2730, or e-mail anytime jra@cnw.com February, 19-24, 2019 Brooksville, FL TCT Centennial Celebration. Sertoma Youth Ranch. at the Winter Convention Registration will be available beginning early in November. www.tincantourist.com March 7-10, 2018 Spartanburg, SC Join us for the first Gathering of the 2019 upstate camping season at Croft State Park.

NO Open House. You can make reservations on the Croft State Park Website http:// southcarolinaparks.com/croft/introduction. aspx. We will be in the Lake Campground Loop until full and will likely spill over into the other loop. These sights are water and electric only! Once booked PLEASE email info@southernvintagetrailers.com with your site number!

March 7-10, 2019 Hollister, CA 4th Annual VCT Boot Camp at the Casa de Fruta RV Park. VCT Boot Camp is for the restorer of vintage camper trailers. Beginners are welcome! It is a combination of intensive classroom learning and demonstrations for those interested in acquiring new skills or sharpening your existing ones that are essential when restoring trailers. VCT Boot Camp is an opportunity to meet with industry pros that make their living in the hobby and are willing to share their methods with you. Get in on all the action, camaraderie and enjoyable learning experience centered around the vintage camper trailer hobby.

You will have an opportunity to work closely with the experts as they answer all your questions and provide step-by-step instruction on trailer restorations. You will be a part of a network of fellow restorers! Not experienced? No need to be. This event is for both novice and experienced restorers. We provide a comfortable environment to pick up the skills you will need to begin, complete, or restore your enthusiasm for your project.

Thursday night we meet and greet over a Hawaiian themed BBQ dinner. Friday morning seminars begin and you can choose from several different seminar options based on what you would like to learn. Classes go on for two days and each one repeats. Light breakfasts and lunch are provided on Friday and Saturday. The park has a nice restaurant, Chipotle style burrito bar, gift shops and more. Attendees from across the USA travel to this event. VCT Boot Camp will sell out. Do not wait too long to make your reservation. www.vctbootcamp.com, (916) 572-8554. Campsites and space at seminars are still available. Lodging at the Inn is sold out. Hotel rooms available in nearby Gilroy and Hollister.

March 7-10, 2019  Hollister, CA www.VCTBootCamp.com

A RESTORATION LEARNING EXPERIENCE www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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April 5-6 2019 Roswell, NM Tin Can Tourists turns 100 years in 2019 and centennial celebrations are being planned by all the regional chapters. The Southwest chapter will be hosting a UFO themed rally in Roswell, NM (aren’t UFO’s the ultimate tin can tourist??) April 5-6 2019. Camping is $25.00 per night, you will be placed on a waiting list, as we are full now. Contact Gail Leggett for registration: ggleggett@hotmail. com or Karen Campbell Karencampbellwithrt66@hotmail.com or 505-620-5276.

April 5-7, 2019 Folsom Lake, CA Oasis West 2019 Vintage Trailer MicroRally. 7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd, Folsom, CA 95630. Join us for the 4th annual Oasis West 2019 Vintage Trailer MicroRally. This intimate rally features 17 sites with full hookups, Friday night cocktails, Saturday morning hike, Private Trailer viewings, a Saturday night potluck / Vintage game night and a SundayPancake fest. Reservations start in October 2018. Trailer Tour Saturday at 2pm.

Email ChristianSalmon@comcast.net for details. Chris Salmon 916-715-1258 April 4-7, 2019 Hollister, CA West Coast Kencrafts and Freinds Gathering for Good Times. Casa de Fruta, 10031 Pacheco Pass Hwy. This is an "easy peasy"

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camp out. Saturday potluck and camp fires in the evenings. No Open House. Sites are full hook-up, nice bathrooms and showers.

Reservations can be made through Charles and Virginia for a club discount rate of $40 a night or you can call Casa de Fruita and say you're with the group at $45 + tax per night.

Reservations through us must be made and paid by March 15th. After that they must be made through the park. If the weather cooperates we will be on the grass, if not, we will be on hardtop to avoid mud and mess.

We're on Facebook at West Coast Kencrafts and Friends. Virginia & Charles Diffey at 559.304.8054 or vcdiffey@yahoo.com April 24-28, 2019 Jekyll Island, GA Groovy Beach Bash - 1197 River View Drive This is the SVTF spring fundraising event.

This years theme is a Rat Pack Weekend so it will be a blast. Lots of great activities planned.

All details can be found on our website www.

SouthernVintageTrailers.com Open House, Saturday 11-3 (Charity) Kimberly Hoke info@southernvintagetrailers.com 864-2851228 April 25-28, 2019 Hemet, CA Gear up your Woodies and VW Buses and get ready to cruise back in time to SoCal in the ’60s at Golden Village Palms’ 5th Annual “Surfin’ USA” Pre-1985 Vintage Trailers,

Campers & Classic Car Show. Sixties beach vibes never looked so good on some of the finest vintage trailers and campers, plus classic cars, motorcycles and trucks! On Saturday, pull on your best beach getup and tune in to a Beach Boys tribute band that will have crowds twisting to classic surf jams.

Throughout the weekend, we’ll also have celebrity impersonators, vintage vendors, and more. www.goldenvillagepalms.com/ vintage 866-468-9033 May 2-5, 2019 Red Bluff, CA Durango RV Resort. You can even schedule a massage at this park! Thursday, Poolside Tiki Welcome Reception in the Main Lodge area. Potluck appetizers and aperitifs. Bring some of either one to share. There is usually enough food to call this dinner! Tiki torches, fireplaces and fire pits will set the mood for the evening. Appropriate dress required. (Whatever you want to wear is appropriate.) Throw on a Hawaiian shirt to add to the atmosphere. Friday, Noon - Bingo, prizes! 7 pm to 9 pm - Evening Open House (for campers only, not open to the public) and the Glampolicious contest. The Glampolicious contest has nothing to do with your trailer. Any vintage trailer or RV at Glamperfest can compete. First prize is a weekend escape for two to Napa, CA. Saturday, Breakfast at the River Room Terrace.

Coffee, pastries, oatmeal bar, fruit, cottage

cheese. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm - Open House, Vintage Market and Vintage Trailer Show, open to the public. No vehicle traffic through the park at this time please. 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm - AWP (All White Party) on the River Terrace. Dress in all white. (Jeans are acceptable since we are camping.) Wine tasting, local chocolates, olives and cheeses around the fire pit with some music. Group photo! www.glamperfest.com, (916)572-8554 May 2-5, 2019 Bull Shoals, AR 3rd Annual - Best Dam Vintage Trailer Rally at Bull Shoals Dam Site Campground. Start your rally season in the scenic Ozarks! Bring your kayak: paddle the White River below Bull Shoals Dam for scenery or fly fishing, or above the dam, swim at the nearby beach or even paddle out for quiet time on Bull Shoals Lake. There’s also nearby hiking, the Gaston Visitor Center, Bull Shoals-White River State Park, mtn. bike trails plus local flea markets and antique shopping. Saturday Open House 12-2 and light snacks at the Saturday campfire, otherwise it’s all up to you. 35 campsites w full hookups, 30 or 50 amp electric, back-in and drive-through campsites. Plenty of shade. Wi Fi and firewood available. No rally fee, campground $22 - $25 per night. Call the campground directly to reserve a spot. 870-405-9619. A TCT event. GPS Target: 1616 Bull Shoals Dam Site Blvd.

May 9-12, 2019 Chula Vista, CA Cindy Ross' Vintage Trailer Rally scheduled for May 9-12, 2019, has been canceled due to the closing of the Park permanently by the end of March 2019. Those who have already signed up and paid for spaces will have their deposit funds returned. Other venues are being looked into. So sad. Thanks to all our old and new friends who supported us in the past. Cindy, Bobby, Barbara & Carol - Wagonmasters May 31-June 2, 2019 Grass Valley, CA Rally in the Pines. 11223 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley CA. Come join us for a great weekend in the pines. Bring your vintage trailer and family for a relaxing time. There will be a free to the public open house on Saturday from 10am-2pm, BBQ, a presentation about the local area, swap meet, and too much fun to mention! Open House Saturday from 10am-2pm. Liz Park Harpsrv@ hotmail.com 530-273-6271 ext 221 May 30- June 2, 2019 Pine Mountain, GA Vintage campers and glampers rally, 8804 Hamilton Rd. at the Pine Mountain RV resort. The rally is for participants only who have paid admission and shared pot luck dinner and yard sale with fellow campers.

The open house is NOT public and is for participants only. We have until Oct. to call 706-663-4329 to make reservations. You pay for one night up front then pay the balance before the rally. The rally is open to campers 1979 and older but please ask if you don't fit the bill. We can always make exceptions to the rule! wparducci@aol.com 334-201-4811

HOLLISTER, CA

TRAILERFEST

FOOD, FUN & MUSIC

www.trailerfestrally.com

Vintage Camper TRAILERS

Tr ad iti on al s om Ho t Ro d & Cu st Ca rs ho w

th e Liv e Mu sic by nd al s Vi nt ag e Va Q Me mp hi s BB l l o R Rock & k P o t lu c OW SHOW N SH ION Fa SHIO FaSH Open House es t Da nc e Co nt

JUNE 6-9, 2019

Open House Saturday, June 8. 10 am to 2pm

June 6-9, 2019 Hollister, CA Rockabilly Rally. Casa De Fruta RV Park.

Thursday 6 pm: Kellie's Joint! ​ Bring your favorite beverage (and some to share) and/ or a finger food. ​Rockabilly Fashion Show!

Prizes for Best Outfit. Men, Women, Couples. (Adults and Children) ​Friday 6 pm: Potluck Dinner. We are providing the meat and we are looking for help in preparing it. Can you grill, smoke or BBQ a quantity of chicken, ribs, tri-tip or brisket? email us if you can help. Everyone else can bring a Memphis BBQ style side dish: Potato Salad, Greens, Baked Beans, Red Beans and Rice, Corn on the Cob, Macaroni and Cheese, Coleslaw, Shrimp and Grits, Twice baked potato (casserole?), Green Salad. Pecan Pie, Peach cobbler, Bread Pudding, Pineapple Upside Down Cake. ​Saturday 8 am: Bacon Pancakes and Grits Breakfast. (Coffee ready by 7:30 am) 8:45 am: Bikers Pajamas and Leather Rumble. Pedal, push, pull or putt

May 9-12, 2019 Sylva, North Carolina Newadi Vintage Trailer Rally. 2486 Dark Ridge Rd, "Newadi" is Cherokee for the word sky. This will be a rally at the beautiful Moonshine Creek Campground in the mountains of North Carolina. It is a cool, secluded campground with a stream running behind most of the campsites. It is a low impact campground that gives the visitor a traditional camping experience but with resort level facilities. They also have tent sites and cabins. Moonshine Creek is an excellent base camp to see all the local attractions the "Smokies" have to offer. Nearby find river rafting, tubing, gem mining, golf, trout fishing, and antique and craft shopping. It is an an easy drive to Asheville, Cherokee, Franklin, or Maggie Valley and are only 2 1/2 miles to the entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway! NO Open House. Pete Whitley pete_whitley@yahoo.com 678-378-3725

www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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River Road Vintage Trailer Rally. Vintage trailers 1978 and older, and unique trailers and RV's. Please join our Facebook group, Great River Road Vintage Trailer Rally, for more details. Open House-Saturday July13, from 12-3. Kevin Isaacson austinoaks22@ gmail.com 309 235-4448

your way through the park with the gang. It's all for fun! ​Saturday Open House, 10 am to 2 pm, Traditional Hot Rods, Custom Classic Cars and Vintage Motorcycles are invited!

(Tell your friends to drive in between 8 am to 9 am FREE coffee pancakes.) Participants must stay until 2 pm. Saturday Night 6 pm to 9 pm: Refreshments and Live Music by the Vintage Vandals! Dance Contest and prizes! Rockabilly is one of the earliest styles of rock and roll music, dating back to the early 1950s in the United States, especially the South. As a genre it blends the sound of Western musical styles such as country with that of rhythm and blues,leading to what is considered "classic" rock and roll. This event will sell out, get a spot today! www. trailerfestrally.com, (916) 572-8554 June 13-16 2019 Olema, CA Olema by the sea. 10155 Hwy. 1 Olema,ca 94950. A small group of trailers enjoying the company of others. Thursday evening is fried turkey, Friday dinner is chowder cook off, Saturday is pancake breakfast, no host cocktail party followed by dinner.

Sunday is pack up and see you at the next event. No Open House. Robin Gutierres kristinagutierres@sbcglobal.net (510) 6043117 June 14-16, 2019 Virginia City, NV Step Back in Time. 355 F St. Friday evening join us for a Comstock Cocktail get together.

Saturday morning coffee and danish.

Open house 10-2 p.m. Saturday night pot luck. Experience all that Virginia City holds; mines, cemeteries, saloons, tours, museums, and shopping. The RV Park has a deli, store, laundry, restrooms and showers. Hurry, limited spots with full hook ups available. If you would like to join us, call or email the RV Park in VC at 775-847-0999 or www.vcrvparknv.com to reserve a site at a discounted rate. Please contact Wes and Diana at 775-240-9049, loyds_pss@ sbcglobal.net after you made the reservation so we can get your contact info and space (this is very important).

July 11-14, 2019 Hampton, IL Great River Road Vintage Trailer Rally.

201 State Ave. Join us on the banks of the Mississippi River for the 5th Annual Great

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July 19-21, 2019 Taylorsville, CA Taylorsville County Park and Campground 1/2 mile east of Taylorsville, next to the Indian Creek/River. This is a County campground with fire pits and water in various locations in campground, no electric. Restrooms w/ showers available. General store w/Deli in town (great food and prices.). Public swimming pool, tennis court, fishing, and more. Bring your water stuff and play on the Indian Creek. Motorcycles, minibikes, or whatever you want to bring are allowed.

Friday night meet & greet, Potluck Saturday night in the campground. $14.00 per night.

Contact us if you need additional information or a reservation. Wes 775-813-7960, loyds_ pss@sbcglobal.net Come and view the vintage trailers 10:00-2:00pm Saturday July 20th, 2019.

August 2- 4, 2019 Livingston, MT

The Fiddlers Picnic is a 44 year old acoustic music jam held on the Old Mercier Ranch on the South side of Livingston, MT, just North of Yellowstone National Park and on the banks of the Yellowstone River. Dry camping.

The meat portion of a potluck is included as well as a pancake breakfast. Old Timey, bluegrass, Celtic and more acoustic music is heard throughout the event, all over the grounds.

Bring your instrument when you come or just tap your toes.

Dalsmilie@aol.com for details August 8-11, 2019 Truckee, CA Happy Campers Rally by the River.

10068 Hirschdale Road, Truckee

CA. Truckee River RV Park This will be a fun family friendly event filled weekend of campfires, a potluck, and splashing and/or relaxing by the river. We are aligning this weekend with Reno’s Hot August Nights Vintage Trailer show (Aug 6-11, 2019) so you can enjoy a day trip to this awesome event if you’re interested.1979 or older. Book your reservation through Truckee River RV Park (http://www.truckeeriverrv.com/home.html) When booking let Truckee River RV Park know you’re attending the “Happy Camper Rally by the River” so we can plan events accordingly. FlyingFlorence66@gmail.com Angela, Danielle and Julie (The Three Gals) NO Open House. 530-320-6303 September 5-8, 2019 Branson, MO Branson KOA Annual Vintage Camper Rally.

397 Animal Safari Rd. 8th Annual Vintage Camper Rally. All campers dated 1976 and older receive special pricing. Events include a swap meet and trailer tour. Tour on Saturday, September 7 from 12 - 3 pm. Open to the public. Asking for donations to KOA Care Camps. Angie Dickerson angie@bransonkoa.com 417-334-4414 September 6-8, 2019 Winthrop, WA Wheel into Winthrop. 316 Castle Avenue.

Vintage Trailer Enthusiast Extravaganza!

A laid back gathering for folks who own vintage trailers. A great time to make new friends, show off your RV and Oooh and Ah over other folks' vintage RV's, Tractors, Motorcycles, Bicycles and collectible Automobiles. There will be an Auto Show including vintage Semis, Motorcycles, Parade of 120ish autos that come through our Campground on Saturday the 8th. Join the Party!

Open House Saturday from approx 11-2.

Anna Kominak pinenearpark@gmail.com 509-341-4062

Trailers for our annual rally on the Oregon Coast. Soup Bar, Potluck, Night Glow & more! Reserve sites thru Reservations Northwest in A, B & C Loops. We welcome 1980 and older trailers. Contact your hosts Priscilla Lewallen & Ashley Morrison-Roberts at lewallenw@msn.com & morrison. ashley1@gmail.com to register with the ROVT after you book your spot. Open House. Ashley Morrison-Roberts, morrison. ashley1@gmail.com (503) 522-6179

September 3-9, 2019 September 13-15, 2019 Lynden, WA South Beach, FL Mt. Baker Vintage Trailer Rally. NW WashHosted by Priscilla Lewallen & Ashley Mor- ington Fair & Event Center 1775 Front St. rison-Roberts. Held in A,B & C Loops of Lynden, WA 98264. 19th Annual Mt. Baker South Beach State Park on the beautiful Or- Vintage Trailer Rally. Washington State's egon Coast in Newport. Soup Bar, Potluck, Largest Annual Vintage Trailer Rally. This is Nigh Glow & More! Reserve your spot early field camping with no assigned spots. You thru Reservations Northwest. morrison.ash- pay and register upon arrival. (Cash, check ley1@gmail.com and lewallenw@msn.com or credit card) Showers, restrooms and for more info. a rv dump station are on site. Power and water is abundant and available for most September 13 -15, 2019 everyone with extension cords and water Newport, OR splitters. Cost is: $30 per night plus a one South Beach ROVT Rally.South Beach time rally fee. (Add 3% for credit card payState Park. Join Rollin' Oldies Vintage ments). All are welcome to attend. Those trailers that aren't Vintage or "in The Spirit of Vintage" Glamping—unleashing your will just be asked to inner wild while wearing a pair of park in a designatfishing-lure earrings—is for every ed section along woman (or man!) who ever had the perimeter. This a get-away-from-it-all fantasy years theme is: Cowboys and Indi(with a few frilly embellishments ans. Yes, Saturday, thrown in). Learn about the September 7, 2019 never-fail campfire, cooking with 12-4:00pm. Rene cast iron, how to change a flat, Perret DownRiver11@yahoo.com and much, much more.

(360) 431-7311

Hard bound book $24.99

w w w.v i nt ag e ca mpe rtra i le rs .com

September 20-22, 2019 Perry/Willard, UT RALLY ON THE FRUIT WAY "Journey" KOA. We are back in the country! Rates are $35.00 flat rate,no discounts,per nite,per trailer. Most spaces are full hook ups.

James and Kristan Settlemire are our camp hosts. Go to BrighamCity@ko.com for information or call 435-723-5503.You can book now. 435-730-3840. Orbie September 26-29, 2019 Plymouth, CA TRAILERFEST! White Wedding-An 80's Love Story. Karaoke, Fast Times- a live 80's cover band, muscle cars and over 250 Vintage Trailers! Registraion opens to the public on January 1st, 2019. www.trailerfestrally.com October 11 - 14, 2018 Laconia, IA So Harrison Vintage Camper Rally. South Harrison County Park. 35 vintage campers pack a secluded campground for a weekend of fun to include 4 large group meals, a Fri night band, a special observatory event, a nightly bonfire, Open House-Saturday 1-3pm. Abby Kincaid-Bohnsoharrisonpkvintagecamperrally@gmail.com 502-994-3832.

November 1 - 3, 2019 Jackson, CA Rancheria Rally. 11407 Dalton Road, 4th annual Rancheria Rally. Located at the beautiful Jackson Rancheria RV Park. Join us for a fun weekend with friends who love the vintage lifestyle. A great 'end of year' rally.No Open House. Greg and Wendy Burns rancheriarally@yahoo.com 209-605-1305 Send us your rally info. Visit the "RALLIES" page on our website to link to a simple form to give VCT the details about your event This list can not be reproduced without written permission from VCT Mag.

OCTOBER 4- 13, 2019 www.vintagecampertrailers.com

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FOR SALE

Hundreds of vintage trailers and RV's for sale at www.VintagecamperTrailers.com. Find all of the details on these and many others under the "Buy/Sell" tab you may select "For Sale" to shop. Use "Sell Your Trailer" if you would like to post your trailer for sale. You may shop by region or type in a search word (like "Spartan") to find a certain trailer.

1958 Airstream Flying Cloud 22’ in Excellent working order, Very good condition, very clean. Custom built & owned by Master RV Technician for 7+ years. Modern updated vintage Airstream with a comprehensive Solar System. The Aluminum body is in very good condition. It was recently professionally polished.

1977 GMC – 26.3’ Kingsley 114,200 miles Clean Title. Classic GMC RV is in very good condition. We drive it weekly. It has an excellent comprehensive Solar system. The fiberglass body is in very good condition. Upholstery is in good shape.

Roof has been sealed.

1953 Airfloat Restored. The inside has all been redone from the aluminum walls in so you are getting a brand new trailer except for the aluminum siding which is original. Own an American classic, the trailer that James Dean made famous.

1961 Traveleze This is a professionally renovated affectionately known as “Whiskeze”. Complete rebuild and redesign of a classic trailer by architects Chang+Snyder of Oakland, CA. The end result is a reimagined space that is airy, open and inviting. Upgrades in this renovation include the opening side wall that converts to a deck to allow for indoor/ outdoor living,

1969 Aladdin Very well taken care of. We still went through it very thoroughly and rebuilt both front and back areas that needed it. Resealed roof this summer. New tires. Painted tongue and bumper. She is in amazing shape for 50 years old!

1941 Rambler Fully restored in 2013. Restoration documented with photos and receipts.​Frame up restoration.

New & Used Shelving Pallet Rack Forklifts SacramentoLift.com 62

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