The Vintage Airstream E-mail ListDigest Archive Files
VAL Digest V1 #197
VAL Digest Wednesday, March 24 2004 Volume 01 : Number 197
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Topics in Today's Digest:
[VAL] Colorado Hospitality
[VAL] 1971-23 ft.
Re: [VAL] 1971-23 ft.
Re: [VAL] 1971-23 ft.
[VAL] Re: VAL Digest V1 #196
[VAL] Re: Mexico Vacation
Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
[VAL] shocks for a 59 Ambassador
Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
Re: [VAL] shocks for a 59 Ambassador
[VAL] Re: VAL Digest V1 #196
Re: [VAL] Wooden Blinds
[VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
[VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic balancers
[VAL] Re: VAL Digest V1 #196
[VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic
Re: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
Re: [VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic balancers
[VAL] Torsion bars
Re: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
Re: [VAL] Torsion bars
Re: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 00:43:23 -0500
From: "Scott Fling" <sfling@sg-realty.com>
Subject: [VAL] Colorado Hospitality
Thanks everyone for the help and making me feel welcome at the Get-together
Saturday. I am getting close to deciding between one of two trailers and
Cyndi and I are very excited. I will let oyu know when we close a deal. I am
sure we will have tons of tech questions for you guys. Thanks Again,
Scott and Cyndi Fling
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 22 Mar 2004 22:48:34 -0800
From: "Kathryn L. Hunt" <khunt@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: [VAL] 1971-23 ft.
1971 23 ft Airstream
I have been offered the above trailer but need to know weight and model, if
any. It has a rear bath and twin beds in the middle. Has anyone priced a
similar trailer?
Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Kathy #17792 Charter Vintage Member
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 22 Mar 2004 23:33:07 -0800
From: "Tim Shephard" <timshephard@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] 1971-23 ft.
Sounds like a Safari model like mine.
A Safari with the twin bed layout weighs 3530lbs with a hitch weight of 440
lbs.
I paid $2000 for mine 3 years ago and put another $5000 into it.
- -Tim
- ----- Original Message -----
From: "Kathryn L. Hunt" <khunt@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
To: <valist@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Sent: Monday, March 22, 2004 10:48 PM
Subject: [VAL] 1971-23 ft.
> 1971 23 ft Airstream
>
> I have been offered the above trailer but need to know weight and model,
if
> any. It has a rear bath and twin beds in the middle. Has anyone priced a
> similar trailer?
>
> Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Kathy #17792 Charter Vintage Member
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 06:42:05 -0500
From: "B.W.G." <Brian@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: Re: [VAL] 1971-23 ft.
I bought a 1973 Safari for $2250 about 3 years ago. We then put about
$3,000.00 and a lot of hard work in it. The size is great. The down side is
it will have no stock gray water tank holding tank. Good luck if you decide
to purchase it.
.................Brian
in Richmond.................
1973
Safari
At 10:48 PM 03/22/2004 -0800, you wrote:
>1971 23 ft Airstream
>
>I have been offered the above trailer but need to know weight and model, if
>any. It has a rear bath and twin beds in the middle. Has anyone priced a
>similar trailer?
>
>Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
>
>Kathy #17792 Charter Vintage Member
>
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>When replying to a message. please delete all unnecessary original text
>
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------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 09:11:47 -0500
From: "Scott Scheuermann" <s.l.scheuermann@xxxxxxxxxx.att.net>
Subject: [VAL] Re: VAL Digest V1 #196
Ken, I would, except that my current jack is an electric that has been on
its last legs for 3 years now.
Scott
> From: "Kenneth E. Johansen" <johansen@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
> Subject: Re: [VAL] side winder jack
>
> Scott
>
> Have you thought of using the old handle off your old jack?
>
> Ken J.
>
> At 04:46 PM 03/22/04 -0500, you wrote:
> >I while back someone wrote that they got a side winder jack. I am looking
> >for a new manual jack and found out the hard way that the new Atwood top
> >winder jack will not clear my propane tanks. The side winder models
> >available seem to have a 2000# max. I am thinking that this low of a
limit
> >would make it difficult to lift the rear of my loaded 3/4 ton truck high
> >enough to install the weight distribution bars. Does anyone know of a top
> >winder with a shorter handle, or a side winder with a capacity greater
than
> >2000#? I would really hate to spend $300 on an electric jack!
> >
> >Scott
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 06:51:18 -0800 (PST)
From: Duane Leisle <fireguy42@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: [VAL] Re: Mexico Vacation
Hi All,
I just am getting back to the grind, that we
part-timers call work. Mexico was great. Money needed
for our next adventure! I don't have any pictures,
yet. However, my 68 Airstream Ambassador, once again
proved dependable and comfortable. I had some sway
when trucks went around me at 80plus, however I
tightened down the torsion bars a couple links and no
problems. Thanks again to all the great comments from
our VAlist.
Duane Leisle
68 Ambassador
66 Ford F250
__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Finance Tax Center - File online. File on time.
http://taxes.yahoo.com/filing.html
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 10:21:58 -0600
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
Didn't watch the video. Generally can't on this slow computer. I need
convincing in words, animations can show any wrong concept in action
despite the laws of physics.
Gerald J.
- --
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 11:39:36 -0500
From: "Tom" <tmeeker@xxxxxxxxxx.rr.com>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
This is what they showed on the video:
They took a small tire and wheel setup that was mounted on an axle which
they could turn very fast simulating a tire at high speed. Mind you, the
tire and wheel and axle setup was spun as the entire assembly was in the
air - or off the ground, not touching the ground.
They added a large magnetic weight to just one side of the tire and wheel
assembly and then turn the axle at high speed. It was obvious from the
beginning that the tire/wheel was out of balance, you could see it moving.
While this unbalanced load was in motion about the axle axis they introduced
a strobe camera.
With the strobe flashing they took movies. In watching the movie you could
actually see the tire in different positions about the axis of the axle -
and you could see the large magnetic weight attached to the wheel.
So you knew the tire and wheel assembly would be off balance, a no brainer
when weight is added as they did it.
Next they installed their product onto the tire and wheel assembly from what
we'd see as the front of the tire. Reason was I guess is that we could
easily see their product at work from this angle.
Once again they turned the tire and wheel assembly with their magnet balance
installed. The camera took another movie as the tire started rolling about
the axis of the axle and they continued filming as the tire and wheel gained
speed. What you could see in the beginning was that the weight was attached
and where these ball bearings were located originally. Then, you could see
the ball bearings had moved all by themselves to the opposite side from
where the magnet was located on the tire and wheel. With the strobe on it
was easy to see that the wheel did appear to self balance itself using their
product. With still frames from the beginning to end you could see that
their product seemed to balance the tire and wheel assembly.
Next they took off the large magnet and spun it again using the strobe
light. The bearings were now in different places then when they had the
large magnet on the wheel. Their product appears to work.
Tom
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
> Didn't watch the video. Generally can't on this slow computer. I need
> convincing in words, animations can show any wrong concept in action
> despite the laws of physics.
> Gerald J.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 11:37:24 -0700
From: "Bob Hightower" <rhightower@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
- ----- Original Message -----
From: "Tom" <tmeeker@xxxxxxxxxx.rr.com>
To: <valist@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2004 9:39 AM
Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
> This is what they showed on the video:
>
> They took a small tire and wheel setup that was mounted on an axle which
> they could turn very fast simulating a tire at high speed. Mind you, the
> tire and wheel and axle setup was spun as the entire assembly was in the
> air - or off the ground, not touching the ground.
>
> They added a large magnetic weight to just one side of the tire and wheel
> assembly and then turn the axle at high speed. It was obvious from the
> beginning that the tire/wheel was out of balance, you could see it moving.
> While this unbalanced load was in motion about the axle axis they
introduced
> a strobe camera.
>
> With the strobe flashing they took movies. In watching the movie you
could
> actually see the tire in different positions about the axis of the axle -
> and you could see the large magnetic weight attached to the wheel.
>
> So you knew the tire and wheel assembly would be off balance, a no brainer
> when weight is added as they did it.
>
> Next they installed their product onto the tire and wheel assembly from
what
> we'd see as the front of the tire. Reason was I guess is that we could
> easily see their product at work from this angle.
>
> Once again they turned the tire and wheel assembly with their magnet
balance
> installed. The camera took another movie as the tire started rolling
about
> the axis of the axle and they continued filming as the tire and wheel
gained
> speed. What you could see in the beginning was that the weight was
attached
> and where these ball bearings were located originally. Then, you could
see
> the ball bearings had moved all by themselves to the opposite side from
> where the magnet was located on the tire and wheel. With the strobe on it
> was easy to see that the wheel did appear to self balance itself using
their
> product. With still frames from the beginning to end you could see that
> their product seemed to balance the tire and wheel assembly.
>
> Next they took off the large magnet and spun it again using the strobe
> light. The bearings were now in different places then when they had the
> large magnet on the wheel. Their product appears to work.
>
> Tom
I had a chance to tour a factory that made these balancers in Kansas, and it
was quite a deal. After seeing the assembly line, we got to see the demo,
and place the weights that we picked out from a box, and move them around to
see if we could get it not to work. Couldn't do it.
The 'working' parts were small shot, and with enough fiddlling around, you
could get the wheel in balance, then put their balancer on it and see the
shot evenly distributed around the balancer.
Granted, the demo wheel was smaller than what we use on the AS, but I can't
see why it wouldn't work as well there.
Bob Hightower
WBCCI 11365
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 14:00:44 -0600
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
The FAQ said it took bouncing ON the road to displace the movable
weights. The video and the factory demonstration doesn't involve
bouncing on the road. One tale or the other is incorrect.
Gerald J.
- --
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 15:48:00 -0800
From: "chyde" <chyde@primelink1.net>
Subject: [VAL] shocks for a 59 Ambassador
Greetings all,
A while back someone listed the part # for NAPA shocks for the leaf spring
suspended Airstreams. I tried checking the archives but can't seem to come
up with anything. Does anyone out there still have it written down? RJ lists
Monroe #33033 however his 56 flying cloud is a single axle and looks to have
a much longer shock than my 59 Ambassador.
Any input would be much appreciated.
Colin
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 16:23:45 -0500
From: "Tom" <tmeeker@xxxxxxxxxx.rr.com>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
I think if you park the vehicle all the weights will 'settle' to the lowest
point in the circle or tube which holds the weights and the fluid. Correct?
Then when the vehicle is moved or rolled down the road the weights will
distribute themselves where 'needed'. Bouncing could mean that the wheel
"would be" off balance from the start due to the weights settling at their
lowest point in the tube or circle which holds them.
The wheel in motion would distribute the weights around the axis of the axle
and the fluid in the ring where the weights reside would dampen any movement
while the wheel is in motion. This dampening is similar to a compass on a
pinpoint with no fluid or a compass that is in fluid which dampens any
movement from what I know. A dampened movement is slow to react as you
know.
If I am correct in my assumptions about the weights settling at rest, the
weights being distributed after movement (wheel would be "unbalance" at the
start of course), the fluid dampening much movement of the weights at speed,
then it should work. My opinion only.
Even if you hit a pothole at speed it should not move the weights much if
any due to the dampening of the movement of the weights in the tube.
All in all I think the only time you might ever feel an unbalanced situation
is when you go from a longer rest time to a high-speed motion in a matter of
seconds. I doubt anyone is drag racing with their Airstream behind them -
but then again we have to keep the road rage available to any of us confined
to it's rightful place while in the company of others. Yes?
Tom
> The FAQ said it took bouncing ON the road to displace the movable
> weights. The video and the factory demonstration doesn't involve
> bouncing on the road. One tale or the other is incorrect.
> Gerald J.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 16:45:03 -0600
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] shocks for a 59 Ambassador
The Henschen axles with vertical shocks take the shortest available
shocks with two loops. Works out to be a NAPA part number 94005 at about
$18 per.
If you don't have NAPA dealers in your area, just go to your local auto
parts store and ask for a pair of front shocks for a mid to late '60s -
early '70s Chevy 1/2 ton pickup. And several other GM products of that
era including Corvette '74 to '83.
Otherwise if you have an old shock, take it off and with you to find a
shock with the same mounts and closed length no longer than yours and
stroke no shorter than yours. And bolt them on.
Most every car parts place should be able to supply from these numbers
or dimensions.
Gerald J.
- --
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 17:57:16 -0500
From: Jerry Jarrell <jdj2@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: [VAL] Re: VAL Digest V1 #196
Thanks to Penmayeux - Jo Ann - Dr. GJ - I checked out the site for the
Centramatic balancers and like the idea. Anybody in GA want to share a
set .. someone with another single axle TT that is. It will probably
cost me about the $87 or so to get the individual tires balanced. I've
been lurking on this site for over three years now and have just about
finished (you'll never be finished) our Airstream . My wife and I plan
to attend the GA rally in Hoboken GA. this month. This will be the
Shakedown Cruise as we said in the US Navy. We are really excited and
also keeping our fingers crossed when we hook everything up for a day or
two. However, if big problems arise our daughters live fifteen or so
miles away and they will have company!! Thanks guys and gals for all
your help with the restoration. I couln't have done it without you! God
Bless!!
Jerry
57 Overlander (shiney little critter now!)
WBCCI VAC
> From: Pemayeux@xxxxxxxxxx.com
> Subject: Re: [VAL] Balancing wheels
>
> I took care of the balancing situation on my '62 Overlander by purchasing a set of Centramatic balancers.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 20:37:30 -0500
From: "nickruthwarren" <nickruthwarren@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Wooden Blinds
Jo Ann,
I just fitted my 61' Trade Wind with 1" wood blinds throughout. They look
fantastic, I bought them on-line from www.decoratetoday.com , not a bad
price for wooden blinds but not the cheapest option for window dressing.
Two notes of importance.
1. Be sure to allow extra drop to allow for window hardware (particularly on
the jalousie window, if you have one).
2. Make sure you get the hold-down hardware in metal, some cheaper blind
manufacturers only offer plastic and some none at all. The hold-down
hardware simply holds the bottom of the blind in place so they don't swing
out from the sloped wall or swing around during towing.
I am really pleased with the look and they allow me to keep that visibility
when towing. If you want a photo of how they look e-mail me off list and
I'll happily oblige.
Ruth Warren & The Tin Can Clan
61 Trade Wind.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 21:18:40 -0500
From: "Patricia V. Raimondo" <praimond@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
Hi All,
I wish I could say it was an uneventful trip to Jackson Center but
then, it wouldn't be my kind of road trip! Yep, the Suburban died. I
made the 12 hour trip on Sun. to the plant with no problems. Left at
5AM pulled in at 3:30PM. (after a stop at Garden Ridge looking for
those damn Flamingo's that light up!! Out of stock) Next morning,
(don't worry I'm getting to Pearl!!) got up early to get first in line
for service and the Suburban was dead. Mind you when I last spoke to
the Chevy service manager, the problem he said was with the remote
start and not with the truck. I had the starter disconnected so I made
the trip thinking I was OK. (in hind site, I was lucky it didn't die on
the way!) I called the alarm guy, he said, Hey with the disconnect it
couldn't be the remote start. I then called the Chevy service dept. and
was told that on Fri. the only way they could start the Sub was to
crawl under the engine and BANG the starter motor while cranking the
ignition key!!!!! Yeah, they let me drive to Ohio, knowing I went to
tow a trailer back, with the start problem unsolved! So, four Airstream
mechanics came out to the terraport to help me start the truck and the
youngest guy who had been a truck mechanic, crawled under the Sub and
banged the starter motor while I cranked the ignition key! Started
right up! With it running I knew I couldn't turn it off again so the
Sub was ON from 10AM till 2Am the next day when I got home!!!!!!! (when
I stopped for gas I left the truck running and used the "facilities" in
Pearl!)
On to Pearl! The plant did an outstanding job accomplishing everything
on my wish list! My 54 Flying Cloud now has: black/grey holding tank,
12 volt system with converter, air conditioner, two Fantastic Fans,
fresh water holding tank, pump, all new wiring, TV antenna, Zip Dee
awning, new step, new tires with rims, axle, electric jack, BAL
stabilizers, electric brakes, brake-a-way wire, new circuit breakers,
new electrical outlet with cord, hot water heater, new Dometic 2-way
fridge, new mattress, new sub flooring, Reese stabilizers, installed
the propane fireplace I had sent, and numerous small stuff like
replacing non-aluminum rivets, waste hose carrier under the belly, new
facets in bath and kitchen, new Sealand toilet, replacing gaskets, they
did it all!!!!!!!! AND they went above and beyond making shelves in the
closets for me, a spot above the new fridge for a microwave, a table
around the fresh water tank to put the TV on. Really personal touches!
I can't say enough about the service dept.! The trailer is all I ever
hoped it could be! All that's left is for me is to polish her!! I'm
very happy that I left her at the plant last Aug. It was a long winter
waiting but so worth it! I slept in her Sun. night and got to try
everything out before meeting with the service dept. Mon. morning. (it
was 17 deg.!!! really worked out the new propane fireplace!) Rick
(service manager) and Wayne (service tech. guy who did the work) went
over everything with me before I left. I felt that they take great
pride in the work they do and did everything possible to make me happy!
I'd highly recommend Airstream for any vintage service work as long as
you are willing to have it done during the winter, the slower time, so
that they can take the time needed to do the work properly.
Oh, by the way, I not only saw Wally's gold trailer BUT I got to go
inside!!! I took digital photo's so when I come up for air I'll post
them somewhere for all to see along with pictures of Pearl.
Patti (very tired but happy!)
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 21:33:07 -0500
From: "Scott Scheuermann" <s.l.scheuermann@xxxxxxxxxx.att.net>
Subject: [VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic balancers
These may not work for everyone. If they mount between the wheel and the
brake drum, then the tires are moved towards the outside of the trailer,
reducing the already tight clearance that many have. While I am interested
into looking into these, everyone with them would be well advised to try
pulling a wheel while at home to make sure that you still have the clearance
to fully remove the inflated tire. The time to discover that you no longer
have enough clearance is NOT when you have a flat on the side of a road!
Scott
Pemayeux@xxxxxxxxxx.com wrote:
>
> > I took care of the balancing situation on my '62 Overlander by
> > purchasing a
> > set of Centramatic balancers. They mount between the wheel and the
> > brake drum
> > so installation is a snap. A set was only $174.00 at the local heavy
> > truck tire
> > shop.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 21:49:09 -0500
From: "Scott Scheuermann" <s.l.scheuermann@xxxxxxxxxx.att.net>
Subject: [VAL] Re: VAL Digest V1 #196
GQ,
Thanks for the response. Sometimes I need a nudge to think outside the box.
I was taught back in the early 70's by my grandfather on the hitching
procedure. By that time he was also in his 70's. So perhaps he just showed
me the way that took less muscle. However he did use a bar as well. I will
try what you said with the bars, but after thinking it over I am doubting
that your bars are under the amount of stress that mine are. I have also
been parked in many different situations and inclines over the years.
Sometimes you just gotta lift the rear of the tow vehicle up quite a bit to
snap the bars in place. But, since I'm taking the trailer in tomorrow for a
new set of tires I will give it a try your way.
Thanks for the heads up on the tailgate hitting the jack handle. I will
measure to see if there's room. My ball mount is the medium length one, so
perhaps there will be enough room.
You are right that the electric jacks are nice. But the 20 yr old electric
on mine needs replacing and I'm just at that age where I need to start
exercising any chance I get!
Scott
'60 Overlander
- ------------------------------------------
Several things now come to mind:
>
> 1. You have to be careful that what you replace your jack with has a
column
> diameter that will fit through the hole in the A-frame gusset otherwise
you
> will find yourself grinding it out so that the jack will fit through. The
> bolt circle and hole size should be looked at too.
>
> 2. I am comfortable with the 1000# rating for my application (Safari 22 /
> 398# nominal hitch weight). I am trying to imagine why you would need to
> jack up the back of the truck in order to install the spring bars. On
mine,
> as long as I don't place any trailer load on the ball, I can pull the
chain
> brackets up. I do persuade them a little with an 18" hunk of pipe used as
a
> lever. But it takes very little force and they pop right on. THEN I
lower
> the trailer load down onto the ball (truck) and the spring bars do their
> thing. So I can't figure out why you would need to lift the truck in
order
> to install the bars and hence require more than a 2000# jack.
>
> Am I missing something here? I am just curious if you don't mind.
>
> Oh, and one other thing. Normally, I can lower the tailgate and it nearly
> lays down so I can get in the back of the truck or get stuff out etc. It
> eventually hits the jack column. I have a plastic bed liner type cover on
> the tailgate that doesn't mangle either much. What I nearly missed is
that
> if I installed the sidewinder jack the handle will be facing forward and I
> will have to be very careful and make sure it is in the "up" position or I
> will do a number on the tailgate when I open it. That one was kind of
> subtle.
>
> Later,
>
> GQ '67 Safari
> 4082 in CA
>
> PS: Lately I've helped several members of my unit hitch up that had
> electric jacks and I must say that it is a VERY pleasant experience
> (wouldn't hit my tailgate either....hmmmm)
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 21:55:38 -0500
From: "Scott Scheuermann" <s.l.scheuermann@xxxxxxxxxx.att.net>
Subject: [VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic
Hmm, maybe I spoke (typed) too soon. The balancer shown on the demo looks to
be much thinner between the rim and the drum than I was envisioning. Perhaps
it won't be thick enough to cause problems.
Scott
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 20:09:15 -0700
From: "Fred Coldwell" <agrijeep@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
Patti:
Congratulations on your adventure (you never seem to take just a
simple trip) retrieving Pearl. She sounds full of delight, function and
innovation. Can't wait to see her again this Summer at Colorado Springs
in all her new finery. Your road pluck and street smarts are admirable
and will only increase over time. :) Happy Landing Home!
Fred Coldwell
Denver, CO.
Patricia V. Raimondo wrote:
> Hi All,
>
> I wish I could say it was an uneventful trip to Jackson Center but then,
> it wouldn't be my kind of road trip! Yep, the Suburban died. I made the
> 12 hour trip on Sun. to the plant with no problems. Left at 5AM pulled
> in at 3:30PM. (after a stop at Garden Ridge looking for those damn
> Flamingo's that light up!! Out of stock) Next morning, (don't worry I'm
> getting to Pearl!!) got up early to get first in line for service and
> the Suburban was dead. Mind you when I last spoke to the Chevy service
> manager, the problem he said was with the remote start and not with the
> truck. I had the starter disconnected so I made the trip thinking I was
> OK. (in hind site, I was lucky it didn't die on the way!) I called the
> alarm guy, he said, Hey with the disconnect it couldn't be the remote
> start. I then called the Chevy service dept. and was told that on Fri.
> the only way they could start the Sub was to crawl under the engine and
> BANG the starter motor while cranking the ignition key!!!!! Yeah, they
> let me drive to Ohio, knowing I went to tow a trailer back, with the
> start problem unsolved! So, four Airstream mechanics came out to the
> terraport to help me start the truck and the youngest guy who had been a
> truck mechanic, crawled under the Sub and banged the starter motor while
> I cranked the ignition key! Started right up! With it running I knew I
> couldn't turn it off again so the Sub was ON from 10AM till 2Am the
> next day when I got home!!!!!!! (when I stopped for gas I left the truck
> running and used the "facilities" in Pearl!)
>
> On to Pearl! The plant did an outstanding job accomplishing everything
> on my wish list! My 54 Flying Cloud now has: black/grey holding tank, 12
> volt system with converter, air conditioner, two Fantastic Fans, fresh
> water holding tank, pump, all new wiring, TV antenna, Zip Dee awning,
> new step, new tires with rims, axle, electric jack, BAL stabilizers,
> electric brakes, brake-a-way wire, new circuit breakers, new electrical
> outlet with cord, hot water heater, new Dometic 2-way fridge, new
> mattress, new sub flooring, Reese stabilizers, installed the propane
> fireplace I had sent, and numerous small stuff like replacing
> non-aluminum rivets, waste hose carrier under the belly, new facets in
> bath and kitchen, new Sealand toilet, replacing gaskets, they did it
> all!!!!!!!! AND they went above and beyond making shelves in the closets
> for me, a spot above the new fridge for a microwave, a table around the
> fresh water tank to put the TV on. Really personal touches! I can't say
> enough about the service dept.! The trailer is all I ever hoped it could
> be! All that's left is for me is to polish her!! I'm very happy that I
> left her at the plant last Aug. It was a long winter waiting but so
> worth it! I slept in her Sun. night and got to try everything out before
> meeting with the service dept. Mon. morning. (it was 17 deg.!!! really
> worked out the new propane fireplace!) Rick (service manager) and Wayne
> (service tech. guy who did the work) went over everything with me before
> I left. I felt that they take great pride in the work they do and did
> everything possible to make me happy! I'd highly recommend Airstream for
> any vintage service work as long as you are willing to have it done
> during the winter, the slower time, so that they can take the time
> needed to do the work properly.
>
> Oh, by the way, I not only saw Wally's gold trailer BUT I got to go
> inside!!! I took digital photo's so when I come up for air I'll post
> them somewhere for all to see along with pictures of Pearl.
>
> Patti (very tired but happy!)
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------
> When replying to a message. please delete all unnecessary original text
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a digest format, please go to
> http://www.tompatterson.com/VAC/VAList/listoffice.html
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 20:45:14 -0700
From: "Bob Hightower" <rhightower@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic balancers
The backing plate on these balancers, at least the ones I saw, are not more
than 1/8" thick.
Bob Hightower
- ----- Original Message -----
From: "Scott Scheuermann" <s.l.scheuermann@xxxxxxxxxx.att.net>
To: <valist@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2004 7:33 PM
Subject: [VAL] Re: VAL Centramatic balancers
> These may not work for everyone. If they mount between the wheel and the
> brake drum, then the tires are moved towards the outside of the trailer,
> reducing the already tight clearance that many have. While I am interested
> into looking into these, everyone with them would be well advised to try
> pulling a wheel while at home to make sure that you still have the
clearance
> to fully remove the inflated tire. The time to discover that you no longer
> have enough clearance is NOT when you have a flat on the side of a road!
>
> Scott
>
> Pemayeux@xxxxxxxxxx.com wrote:
> >
> > > I took care of the balancing situation on my '62 Overlander by
> > > purchasing a
> > > set of Centramatic balancers. They mount between the wheel and the
> > > brake drum
> > > so installation is a snap. A set was only $174.00 at the local heavy
> > > truck tire
> > > shop.
>
> -----------------------------------------------------------------
> When replying to a message. please delete all unnecessary original text
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a digest format, please go to
> http://www.tompatterson.com/VAC/VAList/listoffice.html
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 20:12:13 -0800 (PST)
From: robert brandt <rdbrandt_1930@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Subject: [VAL] Torsion bars
The latest list had conversations about hooking up
torsion bars. One was concerned about jacking up the
rear of his 3/4 ton pickup so he could install the
torsion bars. The other method was to install the
torsion bars before lowering the hitxh down to the
ball. I am a little confused. My method has been to
hook up the trailer, raise the jack and then install
the torsion bars using a tension (chain link position)
that brought the ball back up to the reccomended 19
1/2 in.
19 or 19 1/2 in is the recommendded height according
to our Airstream manual for our 1969 Caravel.
What is the concensus on this matter?
Rob and Carole
San Diego
69 Caravel
__________________________________
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------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 21:40:27 -0700
From: "Kenneth E. Johansen" <johansen@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
Major cool - pictures, pictures - can't wait to see them
Ken
At 09:18 PM 3/23/04 -0500, you wrote:
>Hi All,
>
>I wish I could say it was an uneventful trip to Jackson Center but
>then, it wouldn't be my kind of road trip! Yep, the Suburban died. I
>made the 12 hour trip on Sun. to the plant with no problems. Left at
>5AM pulled in at 3:30PM. (after a stop at Garden Ridge looking for
>those damn Flamingo's that light up!! Out of stock) Next morning,
>(don't worry I'm getting to Pearl!!) got up early to get first in line
>for service and the Suburban was dead. Mind you when I last spoke to
>the Chevy service manager, the problem he said was with the remote
>start and not with the truck. I had the starter disconnected so I made
>the trip thinking I was OK. (in hind site, I was lucky it didn't die on
>the way!) I called the alarm guy, he said, Hey with the disconnect it
>couldn't be the remote start. I then called the Chevy service dept. and
>was told that on Fri. the only way they could start the Sub was to
>crawl under the engine and BANG the starter motor while cranking the
>ignition key!!!!! Yeah, they let me drive to Ohio, knowing I went to
>tow a trailer back, with the start problem unsolved! So, four Airstream
>mechanics came out to the terraport to help me start the truck and the
>youngest guy who had been a truck mechanic, crawled under the Sub and
>banged the starter motor while I cranked the ignition key! Started
>right up! With it running I knew I couldn't turn it off again so the
>Sub was ON from 10AM till 2Am the next day when I got home!!!!!!! (when
>I stopped for gas I left the truck running and used the "facilities" in
>Pearl!)
>
>On to Pearl! The plant did an outstanding job accomplishing everything
>on my wish list! My 54 Flying Cloud now has: black/grey holding tank,
>12 volt system with converter, air conditioner, two Fantastic Fans,
>fresh water holding tank, pump, all new wiring, TV antenna, Zip Dee
>awning, new step, new tires with rims, axle, electric jack, BAL
>stabilizers, electric brakes, brake-a-way wire, new circuit breakers,
>new electrical outlet with cord, hot water heater, new Dometic 2-way
>fridge, new mattress, new sub flooring, Reese stabilizers, installed
>the propane fireplace I had sent, and numerous small stuff like
>replacing non-aluminum rivets, waste hose carrier under the belly, new
>facets in bath and kitchen, new Sealand toilet, replacing gaskets, they
>did it all!!!!!!!! AND they went above and beyond making shelves in the
>closets for me, a spot above the new fridge for a microwave, a table
>around the fresh water tank to put the TV on. Really personal touches!
>I can't say enough about the service dept.! The trailer is all I ever
>hoped it could be! All that's left is for me is to polish her!! I'm
>very happy that I left her at the plant last Aug. It was a long winter
>waiting but so worth it! I slept in her Sun. night and got to try
>everything out before meeting with the service dept. Mon. morning. (it
>was 17 deg.!!! really worked out the new propane fireplace!) Rick
>(service manager) and Wayne (service tech. guy who did the work) went
>over everything with me before I left. I felt that they take great
>pride in the work they do and did everything possible to make me happy!
>I'd highly recommend Airstream for any vintage service work as long as
>you are willing to have it done during the winter, the slower time, so
>that they can take the time needed to do the work properly.
>
>Oh, by the way, I not only saw Wally's gold trailer BUT I got to go
>inside!!! I took digital photo's so when I come up for air I'll post
>them somewhere for all to see along with pictures of Pearl.
>
>Patti (very tired but happy!)
>
>-----------------------------------------------------------------
>When replying to a message. please delete all unnecessary original text
>
>To unsubscribe or change to a digest format, please go to
>http://www.tompatterson.com/VAC/VAList/listoffice.html
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 23:00:56 -0600
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <geraldj@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Torsion bars
It is a bit easier on the torsion bar latch force to have the trailer
hitched, but jacked up, lift the back of the tow vehicle with the hitch
ball and the hitch jack. It probably is hard on the jack if the force
gets to be more than the jack can handle. But I suspect the jack is well
within its load capability if it doesn't take two men and a boy to turn
the jack handle. If it takes just one hand on the crank, the jack is
probably well within its load capacity.
I use a piece of pipe, galvanized steel, about 18" long to toggle the
latch. Half inch, I think it is. I cut a coupling in half and screwed
that on the threaded ends of the stock length of pipe from the hardware
store to brace those ends from flaring out. The only complaint I've had
with that handle is that it rolls quite well on a paved lot and when the
lot wasn't level, I have had to chase it. I may add a pin cross wise
through the middle someday to stop it from rolling.
Rather than a specific ball height, I shoot for a level truck and
trailer. If both are level, then the hitch ball height is right for
both.
Gerald J.
- --
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2004 22:10:49 -0700
From: "Earl Peck" <earlpeck@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
Subject: Re: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
- ----- Original Message -----
From: "Patricia V. Raimondo" <praimond@xxxxxxxxxx.net>
To: <valist@xxxxxxxxxx.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2004 7:18 PM
Subject: [VAL] Re: Pearl is Home!
Congtrats Patti!!!!!!!!!!,
I'm sure I am only one of the many who have been silently following the
Pearl trail since it's begining last year. I am fairly new to this Airstream
stuff so I have had no advice to offer but took away a significant amount of
information from you and the rest of the list. ---- Thank You. My interest
has been two fold as I am looking at a 54 Cloud now. It will need a lot of
work and I feel that the price is a little high at the moment. We'll see.
Again-- congratulations and I look forward to meeting you and Pearl in
Colorado this summer.
Earl Peck
1965 Overlander (Inez)
WBCCI 1965
54 FC in sights
------------------------------
End of VAL Digest V1 #197
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