Question: Dear Luise: I have some interest in vintage travel trailers and vintage campers. I know that many ancient RVs all but disintegrate with time but I would kind of like to fix one up and create something special for myself. Have you ever done this or is it pure folly? Regards, Gretel
Answer: Dear Gretel: You are a lady after my own heart. Yes, I have done it and yes, it can be folly. You have to be very, very careful what you start out with, and just as clear about your goals. Old does not necessarily mean vintage. To me, vintage means redeemable, cherished, and maybe unique. Others may not agree but that’s my take.
I have had both successes and failures. The word folly applies to my efforts to resurrect a 1972, Chinook Camper that looked wonderful to me. However, I didn’t go far enough. Up in the overhead, there was dry-rot under the bed and I didn’t remove the mattress and check that out before I bought it. Big mistake. I sold it for a third of what I paid for it because I told prospective buyers about the problem…a hard lesson.
On to happier days. My beloved 1971, Argosy Travel Trailer, made by Airstream, is definitely a win. It was built to last, constructed like an airplane. The original inside finish is still lovely…both the metal walls and the real wood paneling. I have put a ridiculous amount of money into it and I don’t care! It’s still completely road-worthy even though I don’t pull it. I use it as my own personal retreat at the Port Susan Camping Club not far from my home.
Picture glider rockers with footstools, an electric fireplace, braided rugs and curtains trimmed with crewel embroidery. Can you visualize that? A “grandmother’s cottage”! I have a hand made tapestry on the wall, an old fashioned tea kettle on top of the fireplace, coffee mugs hanging from a wrought iron rack and a cuckoo clock that does it’s cheery, (even if totally ridiculous), thing every hour on the hour. I just love it!
So, I would suggest that in pursuing your interest in vintage travel trailers and vintage campers that you look very closely at your budget and your goals. Then find someone you can trust to look at the structure…(like I should have.) Blessings, Luise
I have purchased a 1976 Franklin trailer, the accept for ceiling and floor, the cabinets and everything are in good shape, the only problem is the booth or sofa has been removed and would like to know where they were or what was in camper so I can put back together as best I can. It is 30 ft
Dear Luise, I have a 1954 30′ vintage Viking trailer that was made in Anaheim, CA and the company no longer exists. The original toilet is not in it, and I want to know what was there. W/o the company to contact, I was wondering if you had any ideas. I want to get a more ‘house’like toilet rather than a plastic one, but I’m finding that the hole to hook it to in the floor is very close to the wall only about 8 inches away or so….
Any ideas? Thanks. I’m making this sweet ol’ gal who has been in my life over 30 years, a respite for folks to come and stay in (friends, acquaintances only) and it is such a fun place to hang out. I love it! I will await your reply… P.
P. I would go to a RV parts store, maybe more than one, and outline the issue with them. Many are very creative when it comes to problem solving.
Hi, we just purchased a 1979 Winnebago pull behind 25 ft long. Used it this past weekend, kids loved it. I have not been able to find replacement parts or any other information on it. Just making do or making other parts work that need to be replaced. Your website was somewhat helpful as I got some other links to check out. Thanks again for your efforts.
Looking for an Owosso Travel Trailer to purchase-any condition!J.
Hello!
I have found a 1973 Caveman trailer–it looks to be in pretty good shape with everything working, sound roof, no rusting out areas. The interior looks as though it has not been remodeled but has been very well taken care of, as it looks like 1973-style cupboards, etc. The party selling it is asking $2200 – what do you think a ballpark amount would be to pay for the trailer? I have been searching online but haven’t found anywhere where I could get pricing information. Thank you!E.
E. – There is no pricing available for trailers 40 years old that I know of. It is very rare to find one in the condition you describe. I would pay what they are asking in a minute, if I were looking.
We purchased a 1948 King Trailer (Canned Ham). 12 feet. The Company (King Trailers) was based in Torrance California and produced trailers for 10-12 years. Would you have any information on them? thanks. B.
B. – I don’t have anything to offer but I will post your request for information. There’s always a chance you will get an answer here.
Have just purchased a 1963 Chinook 14′ travel trailer. Need to fix roof leaks, of course but the cabinets are in beautiful shape! Has 2 large closets, one has a portapotti but used to be for something else. Any ideas where I could get a floor plan for it? M.
I’m publishing your request. Hope someone posts here with an answer.