VACList DigestVACList-Digest Saturday, July 13, 2002 Issue 363
Today's Topics:
1. Airstream needed for film - San Diego
2. Vintage tow vehicles; was "buying a'74 sovereign 31'"
3. FW: buying a'74 sovereign 31'
4. OverPriced
5. Mounting Microwave
6. Re: 1950 Cruiser
7. Help with Bix Stripper Techniques
8. Re: Rest Area "Camping"
9. Re: Vintage tow vehicles; was "buying a'74 sovereign 31'"
10. polishing
11. Will and Grace page with cute vintage AS pic
12. Security
13. Security
14. '74 Argosy Electrical Problems . . .
15. Wal-Mart and then some - and then some more
16. Re: buying a'74 sovereign 31'
17. Re: Security
18. Re: '74 Argosy Electrical Problems . . .
19. Re: Security
20. Security
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Message Number: 1
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 17:25:08 -0700
From: Webmaster <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Airstream needed for film - San Diego
Airstreams in San Diego must be a hot item. Here is another, this time
unpolished.
RJ
VAC Webmaster
---------------
I am a graduate film student at San Diego State University and am
working on my "mid-thesis" film.
We will be filming in the San Diego area from July 25 to the 28th and
need a '50s Airstream on Saturday, July 27th.
The trailer will be stationary and we wil need to film exteriors and
interiors. There is nothing we will do that will in any way damage the
trailer.
I can only afford to pay a $100 honorarium and gas money for the filming.
I would prefer a trailer that is not pristine and polished.
If you know of anyone who could help us it would be much appreciated.
Information about the film can be found at www.filmalex.com. The title
is "Searchlight Billy."
I can provide references and a certificate of insurance.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.
Alex Farnsley
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
858 974-1973
5524 Mt. Acara Dr.
San Diego, CA 92121
------------------------------
Message Number: 2
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 20:37:36 EDT
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Vintage tow vehicles; was "buying a'74 sovereign 31'"
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In a message dated 7/12/02 7:20:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 2. I would like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be
> purchased. My ideal; an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon. We are
> prepared to get a Suburban, but if the right "car" was found I would be
> psyched (my wife? not exactly with me on the nostalgic side of the car).
> Any encouraging words?
>
>
I have both a new Suburban and a 1978 Chrysler New Yorker to pull my 77 31'
Excella. I love to use the Chrysler as the tow vehicle but I generally do it
on the shorter trips as it gets 6mpg when towing the Airstream. This gets a
bit expensive, but not too bad. The big problem is the travel range of
125-150 miles which can be very restrictive if you plan to do a lot of long
distance traveling. The new 1/2 ton Suburban does a wonderful job towing and
gets 11-12 mpg with the Airstream for a range of approx 350 miles.
John -- 77 Excella 500
Atlanta
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<HTML><FONT FACE=arial,helvetica><FONT SIZE=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" FACE="Arial"
LANG="0">In a message dated 7/12/02 7:20:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
<BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px;
MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">2. I
would like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be purchased. My ideal; an
Oldsmob <BR>
</BLOCKQUOTE><BR>
</FONT><FONT COLOR="#000000" style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" SIZE=2
FAMILY="SANSSERIF" FACE="Arial" LANG="0"><BR>
I have both a new Suburban and a 1978 Chrysler New Yorker to pull my 77 31'
Excella. I love to use the Chrysler as the tow vehicle but I generally do it on
the shorter trips as it gets 6mpg when towing the Airstream. This gets a bit
expensive,<BR>
<BR>
John -- 77 Excella 500<BR>
Atlanta</FONT></HTML>
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Message Number: 3
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 20:23:33 -0500
From: Kevin D Allen <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: FW: buying a'74 sovereign 31'
Kevin D. Allen
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban
1975 Cadillac Convertible (towcar in-training)
WBCCI/VAC #6359
-----Original Message-----
From: Kevin D. Allen [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]
Sent: Friday, July 12, 2002 7:17 PM
To: '[EMAIL PROTECTED]'
Subject: RE: [VAC] buying a'74 sovereign 31'
Greetings Jeff!
-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On Behalf Of
Jeff Gustafson
Sent: Friday, July 12, 2002 5:19 PM
To: Multiple recipients of VACList
Subject: [VAC] buying a'74 sovereign 31'
My wife,2 kids, and dog are planning an extended vacation this summer
and we have found a 1974 Sovereign� 31' that we think will work well for
us. I have two questions to post:
�
1. The trailer is in good shape and we are confident that it is what the
current owners say it is. In the course of my own inspection I found
some popped rivets on the belly pan. When I tap on the loose sheets,
small bits of debris fall out. They are small bits of rust.When I tried
to find an area to further inspect the frame (without being too
invasive) I opened the rear storage compartment. This compartment has a
broken hinge and does not close completely, which could be another
source of water invasion. With a bit of manipulation I was able to touch
a piece of the frame that runs laterally to the length of the
trailer,the bumper probably attaches here. A piece of rust scale came
off that was about the size of a US quarter and about twice as thick. I
know this is a wet area because of the waste pipe storage,so some rust
is expected. But I can tap on the under side of the trailer as I walk
the perimeter� and hear the sound of the rust as it bounces on the
aluminum. Normal?
<reply>
I would be wary of this trailer as rust scale literally falling from the
frame rails is not a good sign. I would also be concerned that what you
are hearing fall could be something falling other than rust scale - -
rodent droppings, insects, etc. If you are really serious about this
rig, have you considered having a knowledgeable Airstream mechanic check
the trailer - - the going rate for such services in my area is from $150
to $250 depending on the complexity of the inspection you desire - -
basic being water-waste-gas-electrical-safety systems and obvious
evidence of leaks - - - the more involved inspection would include
opening the belly pan to inspect frame rails (usually done only on
request where frame integrity problems are suspected).
�
2. I would like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be
purchased. My ideal; an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon. We are
prepared to get a Suburban, but if the right "car" was found I would be
psyched (my wife?� not exactly with me on the nostalgic side of the
car). Any encouraging words?
<reply>
I am in the process of readying a vintage tow vehicle for my �64
Overlander. (I am assuming that you are considering the �64 to �72
Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser which was a mid-size model rather than the �80s
model which was in the full-size rear drive platform and called the
Custom Cruiser.) As the former owner of the Vista Cruiser�s twin, a
Buick Sport Wagon, I could not recommend towing a trailer the size of a
Sovereign behind the Vista Cruiser. It was a mid-size series with a
maximum of 350 cubic displacement in most years. Another potential
drawback would be the lack of a hydramatic three speed transmission - -
some of the early Vista Cruisers and Sport Wagons had the two-speed
cousin of the Chevrolet Powerglide. There were a few years where a
knowledgeable dealer could order a 400 or even a 455 cubic inch engine
(if my informant is correct), but these would be scarce and quite
collectable within the vintage auto hobby. My �71 Buick Sport Wagon had
a maximum trailer tow rating of 5,000 pounds and that was with the
complete factory towing package that required the 350 cubic inch motor,
automatic, hd cooling/transmission cooler, hd springs and suspension
components, and a 3.73 differential. It was rather twitchy with
anything more than a 20 foot box type travel trailer.
In any event, towing with a vintage/collector car poses a number of
dilemmas. Those that I have faced have included:
1. Typical collector car insurance does not cover the car if it is used
to tow any kind of trailer for any reason. Read that your insurance is
invalidated if your connect your collectible trailer to your vintage tow
vehicle. My solution was to be direct with my automobile insurance
agent. I told him that I intended to tow my Vintage Airstream behind my
�75 Cadillac convertible and that I wanted to be sure that the car was
fully insured when doing so. He spent several hours researching the
issue talking with a number of underwriters. Finally placed the
insurance with a carrier who had no objection so long as the following
criteria were met:
a. The trailer would only be towed behind the collector car when the
objective of the excursion was to attend a club function either Vintage
Airstream Club or a Marque Collector Car club function or a judged
automobile show that was advertised in widely distributed media.
b. I had to agree to provide proof of ownership and insurance on a
modern tow vehicle capable of towing my Vintage Airstream.
c. Any tours that would place my annual mileage on the Cadillac over
3,000 miles will require a specific rider and proof of registration for
a distant show or club activity.
2. Finding a welder who would fabricate the necessary receiver hitch
proved somewhat difficult. Every local RV dealer that I checked with
indicated that they no longer installed weld-up kits and didn�t have
contact with welders willing to do so. I finally found two dealers who
shared names of welders who frequently purchased weld-up kits from them.
While neither of these referenced worked out, one did suggest checking
the yellow pages of small-town phone directories with a strong
agricultural base for welders who advertise trailer hitch services. The
local phone directory for a town in the Illinois corn belt provided
paydirt - - two welders advertised hitch work. The first one that I
checked with was reluctant to fabricate a trailer hitch for the car.
The second who also ran a busy automotive shop was willing provided that
I was willing to have my care fully checked for mechanical and
structural soundness. The car passed, and he installed a beautifully
fabricated receiver hitch that in no way detracts from the beauty of the
car. And the shocker was his fee of under $250.00 for the entire job
(thorough inspection and hitch installation).
3. It is extremely unlikely that you will find an automobile with the
heavy duty trailer towing package so you will likely end up making
upgrades such as (The required upgrades on my Cadillac have cost nearly
$1,000 to this point and I am not absolutely sure that it is ready to
tow the Overlander yet.
a. Heavy duty radiator
b. Transmission Oil Cooler
c. Heavy Duty Springs (especially in the rear) and possibly air shocks
or bags
d. Large bore dual exhaust system including catalytic converters if
vehicle is a 1975 or later may be required for some applications.
e. Numerically higher rear differential (most tow packages required at
least 3.23 or numerically higher ratings) - - Remember if considering a
front drive (Toronado/Eldorado) changing the final drive gear ratios is
very difficult (read EXPENSIVE) so the factory recommended towing limits
are usually low - - only 5,500 pounds on my �75 Eldorado.
f. Switching from two barrel carburetor/manifold to four barrel
carburetor/manifold if the car wasn�t equipped with the performance V8.
g. A heavy duty alternator may need to be added on some cars.
4. Finding mechanics who are familiar with the operating systems on a
car that predates fuel injection. One of the most exasperating problems
that I have faced in the year-long battle to get my Cadillac prepped has
been finding mechanics who a proficient in solving fuel delivery and
electrical problems without the aid of computerized error codes. Prior
to moving to the Quad Cities, my local Cadillac dealer always had a
�Senior� mechanic who was well versed in 1970�s Cadillacs and GM cars in
general - - and it was those two mechanics who kept this car purring for
years. Relocating to the Quad Cities found a Cadillac dealer who
basically told me that they do not work on non-fuel injected cars or
trucks. Independent mechanics can be found who are very proficient with
these cars, but it is not easy and is a continuing problem and one that
can pose some concerns when traveling especially if you have little if
any flexibility in your travel itinerary.
5. It is quite possible that when stressed after being allowed to loaf
for the better part of three decades, flexible seals in transmissions
and the engine may balk and need to be replaced. I know from previous
experience that I may be looking at having my transmission overhauled
for seal replacement since it has been allowed to loaf for the last
108,000 miles of easy highway life.
6. Be prepared for frequent fuel stops. The large fuel tank in my
Suburban allows a towing range in excess of 300 miles, but the Cadillac,
even when driven solo, only has about a 250 mile driving range (I am
estimating a towing range of about 175 miles).
I know that I have painted a rather bleak picture, but there are
definite safety and drivability concerns when putting a collector car
into trailer towing service. Why do people want to attempt this
process? It allows us to combine and enjoy two hobbies. In addition
the combination of a Vintage Airstream and similar vintage tow vehicle
can create a crowd wherever they stop. Can I justify my decision to tow
with my collector car?--Not on any level from a cost/benefit perspective
in an economic sense. This is just something that I want to do because
I enjoy vacationing in my Airstream and I am missing so much of the best
driving season for the Cadillac convertible.
Good luck with your decision!
Kevin D. Allen
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban
1975 Cadillac Convertible (towcar in-training)
WBCCI/VAC #6359
�
�
------------------------------
Message Number: 4
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 21:25:36 EDT
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: OverPriced
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Is anyone else out there finding freinds who want to buy Airstreams, join the
group at VAC and make a good contribution to fixing them up and promoting the
classics we find in fields? I've had so many folks email me in re:to how
they can find a trailer that they can afford. When they live in a
city....it's unfortunate.... I don't even have any for sale of my own, they
all live on the ranch in happy aluminum retirement.......Any thoughts? No
jabs.....I'm not a "broker", but I have helped people meet their dreams
without emptying their pocketbooks.
Wendy
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<HTML><FONT FACE=arial,helvetica><FONT SIZE=2>Is anyone else out there finding
freinds who want to buy Airstreams, join the group at VAC and make a good contribution
to fixing them up and promoting the classics we find in fields? I've had so many
f<BR>Wendy
<BR></FONT></HTML>
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Message Number: 5
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 19:35:33 -0400
From: Terry Tyler <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Mounting Microwave
on 07/10/02 12:46 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> or design some legs or something that would at least keep it secure while
> traveling;
Great idea Cynthia,
When I read that phrase, I immediately envisioned legs that folded up when
your Airstream is parked, but with legs hanging down in the support position
when traveling. That concept is already in use with tables in many trailers.
The hardware is available and would be adaptable with little effort.
Here's another concept.
When I was a kid, we had a table with a leaf on both sides that dropped
down, thereby enabling us to slide the table against a wall for more space
in the living room.
When either leaf was raised, a support beam on a leg was swung out and
supported the drop leaf. That concept might be adaptable.
Thirdly, seeing as you are doing a major restoration inside anyway, have you
considered if you'll be using the trailer in sub-freezing weather? If not,
then a catalytic heater might suffice and the furnace could be left out.
It's space could become a snug bed for the microwave while traveling.
A fourth idea I'd consider would be to create hold downs with velcro (How? I
don't know). What I do know is your phrase got my wheels spinning.
I'm sure you'll come up with something - and then revise it once or twice or
more; and/or come up with a better idea that has your own originality in it.
All of us will be interested in reading about how you end up dealing with
your microwave. What you do and your rationale might apply to other items
that I might want to carry but haven't become aware of it yet.
Terry
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
------------------------------
Message Number: 6
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 19:35:34 -0400
From: Terry Tyler <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: 1950 Cruiser
on 07/10/02 7:08 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> After extensive redecorating our 24' Cruiser, we have two corner
> cabinets left over. They are the ones that flank the sofa sleeper. Any
> idea if anyone needs them? They are blond wood, in ok condition but
> need refinishing. All parts, drawers are there. Three drawers per
> unit.
> Chuck and Elaine Kemming
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
Yes, I'd like the two corner cabinets. We're traveling now, but will return
in September. That's when the cabinets could be shipped to me.
Our next Airstream to get my attention is a 1963 22' Flying Cloud. It has
more vacant wall space than either our 1967 22' Safari or 1977 31' Excella
500. Also, one corner cabinet is in poor shape.
All the woodwork in our '67 was refinished by me. It's elm and looks better
than when new.
If someone else has asked for your two corner cabinets ahead of me, that's
my loss and their gain. I'll wish them well. <grin>
Terry
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
------------------------------
Message Number: 7
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 19:53:14 -0700
From: "Tim Shephard" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Help with Bix Stripper Techniques
I tried some of the Bix Stripper for the first time tonight on my '71
Safari.
I just did the front street side panel. I turned out pretty good but I am
looking for some techniques that others found successful.
I tried using a nylon brush to spread the stripper around but that did not
seem to help, and may have put some scratches on. Hard to tell if the
scratches were there already.
Also, after it's all stripped, do I have to wax it to keep it that way, (
not interested in the mirror polish yet).
-Tim
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.telecom-pros.com/tim/tim
eFax (508) 590-0302
------------------------------
Message Number: 8
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 20:04:21 -0700
From: Pearl Main <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: Rest Area "Camping"
Oh the awning always rolls up before dark Pearl
"schuetzen - RKBA!" wrote:
> On Fri, 12 Jul 2002 15:43:04 -0700, Pearl Main <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> >
> >My Airstream ....I have consistently lowered the tongue jack and pulled out the
> >street side awning while stopping at rest stops and have never had any one
> >question
>
> good way to get it torn off by some late arriving rig backing in next to you in
> the night.
> I agree, these "boondock" overnights are just that. I do no more than
> absolutely necessary to spend the night getting some sleep. my wife who sleeps
> on the front gaucho, appreciates the idling rigs, helps to drown out my snoring
> in the mid 3/4 bed.
>
> fwiw
>
> --
> Charles L Hamilton, [EMAIL PROTECTED] Houston, TX
> WBCCI #1130 VAC S*M*A*R*T
> '76 Sovereign
> ----------RKBA!---------------------------------
> X-No-Archive: Yes
>
> To unsubscribe or change to a daily Digest format, please go to
> http://airstream.net/vaclist/listoffice.html
>
> When replying to a message, please delete all unnecessary original text
>
>
------------------------------
Message Number: 9
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 20:17:40 -0700
From: Pearl Main <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: Vintage tow vehicles; was "buying a'74 sovereign 31'"
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Hi You might checkout the31 that Thelma Morgan has for sale..her e-mailis
[EMAIL PROTECTED] in So Cal trailer is inKansas at her residence...
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> In a message dated 7/12/02 7:20:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
>
>
>
>> 2. I would like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be
>> purchased. My ideal; an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon. We are
>> prepared to get a Suburban, but if the right "car" was found I would be
>> psyched (my wife? not exactly with me on the nostalgic side of the car).
>> Any encouraging words?
>>
>
> I have both a new Suburban and a 1978 Chrysler New Yorker to pull my 77 31'
> Excella. I love to use the Chrysler as the tow vehicle but I generally do it
> on the shorter trips as it gets 6mpg when towing the Airstream. This gets a
> bit expensive, but not too bad. The big problem is the travel range of
> 125-150 miles which can be very restrictive if you plan to do a lot of long
> distance traveling. The new 1/2 ton Suburban does a wonderful job towing and
> gets 11-12 mpg with the Airstream for a range of approx 350 miles.
>
>
> John -- 77 Excella 500
> Atlanta
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<html>
Hi You might checkout the31 that Thelma Morgan has for sale..her
e-mailis [EMAIL PROTECTED] in So Cal trailer is inKansas
at her residence...
<br>[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
<blockquote TYPE=CITE><font face="Arial"><font size=-1>In a message dated
7/12/02 7:20:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED]
writes:</font></font>
<br>
<br>
<blockquote TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px;
MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px"><font face="Arial"><font
size=-1>2.
I would like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be purchased.
My ideal; an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon. We are prepared to
get a Suburban, but if the right "car" was found I would be psyched (my
wife? not exactly with me on the nostalgic side of the car). Any
encouraging words?</font></font>
<br> </blockquote>
<p><font face="Arial"><font color="#000000"><font size=-1>I have both a
new Suburban and a 1978 Chrysler New Yorker to pull my 77 31' Excella.
I love to use the Chrysler as the tow vehicle but I generally do it on
the shorter trips as it gets 6mpg when towing the Airstream. This
gets a bit expensive, but not too bad. The big problem is the travel
range of 125-150 miles which can be very restrictive if you plan to do
a lot of long distance traveling. The new 1/2 ton Suburban does a
wonderful job towing and gets 11-12 mpg with the Airstream for a range
of approx 350 miles.</font></font></font>
<br>
<p><font face="Arial"><font color="#000000"><font size=-1>John -- 77 Excella
500</font></font></font>
<br><font face="Arial"><font color="#000000"><font
size=-1>Atlanta</font></font></font></blockquote>
</html>
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Message Number: 10
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 2002 23:14:45 -0400
From: "David Turner" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: polishing
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What do you do about grind marks and bad pitting marks when polishing?Is =
there a way you can buff that out?
David Turner
1105 Hancock Drive
Americus, GA 31709
Home Ph. 229-924-8488
Office Ph. 229-937-2567
Office Fx. 229-937-5691
Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
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<DIV><STRONG>What do you do about grind marks and bad pitting marks when =
polishing?Is there a way you can buff that out?</STRONG></DIV>
<DIV><STRONG> </STRONG><STRONG>David Turner<BR>1105 Hancock=20
Drive<BR>Americus, GA 31709<BR>Home Ph. 229-924-8488<BR>Office Ph.=20
229-937-2567<BR>Office Fx. 229-937-5691<BR></STRONG><STRONG> Email: <A=20
href=3D"mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]";>[EMAIL PROTECTED]</A></STRONG></DIV=
></BODY></HTML>
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Message Number: 11
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 00:22:00 -0600
From: "Terry O'Neill" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Will and Grace page with cute vintage AS pic
I stumbled across a NBC page with a nice small vintage AS and convertible
pic. Great exposure for our possesions/obsessions.
http://eem.imagenet2000.com/wng/taping.html
Take Care
Terry O'Neill
Calgary
66 Trade-Wind Double
WBCCI 4786
VAC
http://pages.sprint.ca/Streamsite/main.html
------------------------------
Message Number: 12
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 10:15:00 -0600
From: Dan Phariss <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Security
One must remember that everyone is responsible for his/her own security.
I travel armed. Not PC in some circles but practical. Nor is it a choice for
everyone, but it is a choice. I choose not to be a helpless victim.
Aside from a tour in the military I have never been required to use a
firearm in self defense. However, if you ever get into a situation where you
need one nothing, absolutely nothing else can take its place. Pepper spray
is nice but can be worse than nothing. Dogs are a good warning system but
little more than that.
All anti-firearms BS to the contrary firearms are NOT a danger to the user
or his family if they have some common sense and take the time the
familiarize themselves with the firearm and do some training. This is
available everywhere in the US.
A great many states honor other states CCW permits now should anyone care to
apply and take the training.
Privately owned firearms are used about 2,000,000 time a year to prevent
crimes and/or protect people in the US annualy, it most cases no shots are
fired.
Other than a couple of jurisdictions there is no place in the US and Canada
where a shotgun or rifle cannot be legally transported (some/most semi-autos
are banned in Canada and some maybe here and there in the more draconian
areas of the US). Even National Parks allow disassmebled firearms.
Dan Phariss
------------------------------
Message Number: 13
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 12:53:06 -0400
From: Ron Ainsworth <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Security
Way to go Dan Phariss,
We also travel armed. As a 32 year veteran Crime Scene Investigator for a
large department, I know what just having the weapon can do.
I highly recommend to anyone that does choose to go armed... TAKE THE
TRAINING COURSES FIRST! Then act responsibly.
We're talking about a LOT of responsibility here. It's not something for hot
heads to do.
Ron and Barbara Ainsworth
'72 Ambassador International 29'
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Message Number: 14
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 13:29:09 -0400
From: "Mr. Joy H. Hansen" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: '74 Argosy Electrical Problems . . .
Hi All,
Much to my dismay, the '74 Argosy that followed me home a couple of weeks
ago blew the GFI of my shore line. Took removing the ceiling panel, and the
interior air conditioner to finally locate the problem. The air
conditioner installers had pinched the supply line between the wood spacer
and the skin. Lots of the screws shorted the neutral to the ground.
Unfortunately, the installers didn't get the hot lead so they would have had
to do the huge job I just started.
I installed an Inteli Power and Charge Wizard and had to use the
distribution panel from the original converter. Hopefully I did the job
correctly - at least I haven't blown fuses yet. Does anyone have a drawing
of how the wiring should be for this type of installation?
Also, the umbilical was badly patched and I want to replace it. The cable
is routed into a conduit inside the street side of the A frame. I can pick
up the leads in the ceiling inside the trailer, but haven't a clue where to
open the belly to find a junction box where the cable connects to the
individual lines. I don't want to drop the belly for the entire front of
the trailer to find the junction box. If anyone knows the location of the
box, I'd sure appreciate any help.
Regards, '69 Safari, Joy
------------------------------
Message Number: 15
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 11:48:54 -0400
From: Terry Tyler <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Wal-Mart and then some - and then some more
on 07/12/02 2:32 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> So, it is not just RVers who use Wally's overnight. I figure that it is not
> only restaurants and cafes fit for truckers which should be used. In fact,
> given a choice, I would rather park my rig in the midst of a pack of idling
> diesels anytime to some of the RV parks I have been in. oh, do not pass up
> the occasional town or county parks which allow RV parking. (Sheridan WY I
> think is one example which we stopped in.)
As Charles mentioned, there are city, town, village and county parks all
over the continent that offer free camping. As an example, the northern most
east west highway across Kansas has 5 city parks that offer free camping.
The park in Marysville is right in town, has showers, water, dump station,
dumpster and the stores are within walking distance. Not too shabby, hey?
RVers who belong to the Escapees Club can purchase a compilation of such RV
parking sites for less than $10. The list is constantly being revised as new
locations are added. In the Escapees magazine, this information is within
the "DAY'S END" column. We have used this data for more than 20 years and
have contributed to it. Most recently, we stayed at two of these locations
during June 2002 and we'll stay at two others next week (July 2002).
Anyone who is a member of the various fraternal organizations knows many of
the local chapters offer free RV parking at their building. We've stayed at
various Elk lodges, some with no hookups and others with full hookups.
Occasionally, there is a fee, but it's usually nominal and we've never been
charged to use their phone to send and receive our email. Plus, the meals
are generally solid fare and economically priced. The social aspect is
always a pleasure. And when we've needed recommendations for a garage
mechanic, their suggestion has been right on the mark.
>From our perspective, there are more places to stay which are free or
downright close to it, that it's seldom necessary to park in campgrounds
where the charge is more than $7-$8 a night ($10 maximum).
There are thousands of acres of BLM land in the western states that don't
charge anything at all. We have stayed for free at the Slabs in Niland, CA
and used the BLM land near the town of Why, Arizona many times and never
paid a nickle. The Why Utility Company operates a campground for those who
like to alternate between BLM parking and a regular campground park.
Several years ago we kept track of our costs for 1200 nights and found they
averaged out to between $6-$7 a night. Our summary included all nights spent
during those 2-3 years, including nights spent at rallies in high priced RV
parks, nights at full service campgrounds associated with being on a caravan
and the occasional nights when we chose a $10 a night RV Resort.
Are you still with me? There's more. There are "used" memberships in RV
Resort Systems available. Typically, the price ranges from free to $500 and
the annual dues start at $100. To stay at one of these campgrounds within
the various membership systems, the charge generally ranges from $6-$10 per
night, usually with full hookups. It doesn't take a mathematician to
recognize that a free membership and agreeing to pay $99 dues per year in a
membership system can quickly pay for itself.
Some of our friends have bought ($300) into a membership system that
entitles them to a 50% discount at 750 campgrounds. We tried that for a
year, but 50% off $25-$35 a night wasn't as good a deal as we were getting
all by ourselves without belonging to that system. Plus, we found these
campgrounds would often restrict our stay to a few nights and never allow us
to stay on holiday weekends.
Then, there are all the federal campgrounds that go by a host of different
names. Anyone over age 62 can use these parks for 50% off the regular price.
We've found the regular prices are generally between $12-$16 a night which
means $6-$8 per night is your cost.
We carry a copy of "The Trucker's Friend" with us when we're traveling the
Interstates for more than a few days. In it, we easily identify which truck
stops are "RV Friendly" and offer free parking overnight. We've stayed at
them dozens of times, have eaten in their restaurants, refilled our propane
tanks there, used their dump stations, replenished our fresh water and even
used their immaculately clean showers (two weeks ago was our most recent
shower at a truck stop).
We know one Vintage Airstream family (father, mother and 3 boys) where the
father is still working full time. They make marathon runs to and from
rallies and National Parks. Because of the long distances they cover in
short amounts of time, they skip the campgrounds while enroute, use the
showers at truck stops and keep on trucking. It's not a matter of them
trying to be thrifty, it's a matter of keeping everyone happy, clean and
enjoying the adventure of going to exciting places during long and short
weekends.
And these examples are only the tip of the iceberg. There are dozens of
other options, i.e. Lumber company campgrounds, power and light company
campgrounds, river authority campgrounds, courtesy parking, Cracker Barrel
Restaurants, Mom and Pop businesses, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel rest
area and the list goes on and on - and on and on.
Yes, WalMart parking is everything others have described, but there are a
lot more options out there just waiting to be used. Who are the people who
use these campgrounds? We find they are generally members of the Escapees
Club or folks who are naturally inquisitive and have a strong sense of
curiosity for checking out anything that looks even remotely like it could
be a campground or a safe place to park overnight. They are the folks who
listen to others when the conversation turns to talking about campgrounds
and parking places. These folks are seldom "destination campers" but are
instead those who thrive on experiencing the journey, wanting to learn from
others and having the adventure of their lives.
As with everything else in life, we're always alert to our surroundings and
only park where we judge it to be a safe place. Each person has their own
criteria for making that call. It's important that both persons in a couple
are in agreement on this. Otherwise, it's no fun for either one.
I know these comments are somewhat off the Wal-Mart topic, but anyone who
travels this country quickly learns there are an abundance of safe places to
stay for a night or longer which are cost free or have minimal costs.
Sooner or later someone chides us for being cheap. That's a confession by
them as to their total lack of awareness about what it costs to be an RVer.
In most cases, our Vintage Airstreams end up costing us more than buying a
new one. The same goes for our tow vehicles. While traveling, we support the
economy of every community where we stay, where we shop, where we dine,
where we play and where we indulge our sight seeing interests.
On top of that, we continue to pay all of the bills associated with our home
base. For many of us, our Airstream is the equivalent to a Summer Cottage,
the difference being we can take it with us anywhere on the continent. My
reply to those who chide us is to share a few of these ideas with them.
After sharing, what I'd like to say is, "Stuff that in your pipe and smoke
it."
Terry
1967 22' Airstream Safari
(currently in Colorado and heading East)
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
------------------------------
Message Number: 16
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 11:48:56 -0400
From: Terry Tyler <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: buying a'74 sovereign 31'
> This message is in MIME format. Since your mail reader does not understand
this format, some or all of this message may not be legible.
--MS_Mac_OE_3109405745_196266_MIME_Part
Content-type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
Content-transfer-encoding: 7bit
on 07/12/02 7:18 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
2. I would like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be
purchased. My ideal; an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon. We are
prepared to get a Suburban, but if the right "car" was found I would be
psyched (my wife? not exactly with me on the nostalgic side of the car).
Any encouraging words?
Hi Jeff,
You've read what Charles and Kevin had to say about the trailer. I'd pay
close attention to what they have outlined.
I'll chime in on the tow vehicle. It's been my experience that starting out
with two unfamiliar vehicles simultaneously is a sure fire way to douse any
enthusiasm my wife might acquire. To my way of thinking, there's no sense
intentionally stacking the deck against myself from the get go.
Before you say, "Yeah but," I should tell you that my Airstreams and tow
vehicles have been and still are maintained to the teeth by mechanics who
have a 25 year history of working for me, who know my vehicles inside and
out, who know what challenges each tow vehicle must endure and what I will
be expecting from each while we're traveling.
In spite of that, I'm the first to recognize that no piece of mechanical
equipment is perfect and every one of them needs attention, sometimes at
inconvenient places around the continent.
Each Spring, I use one or two of our tow vehicles to haul one of our
Airstreams and each Fall, I put both away in what I believe to be excellent
condition. Yet, the next year, it takes one or two local trips to flush out
the bugs in both the tow vehicle and the Airstream.
This year, my wife and I left Upstate New York for Colorado without a shake
down trip. Dumb move, but so far, we've been fortunate in that each of our
two problems occurred within 10 minutes of a place where quality service was
available.
But, back to your example. For me to intentionally buy a tow vehicle and a
trailer that I have no prior experience with - and then take it on a first
family outing with all the hopes and dreams normally associated with such an
event - would be like asking for trouble with a capital T and then rolling
the dice.
In my opinion, an extended summer vacation of going to all the new movies
released by Hollywood, going to different fancy restaurants twice a week and
exploring all the famous sights to see within 100 miles of home would be far
more satisfying to everyone involved and profoundly less expensive. My
examples may not apply to your family, but I think you get the idea.
How's that for encouragement?
Terry
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
--MS_Mac_OE_3109405745_196266_MIME_Part
Content-type: text/html; charset="US-ASCII"
Content-transfer-encoding: quoted-printable
<HTML>
<HEAD>
<TITLE>Re: [VAC] buying a'74 sovereign 31'</TITLE>
</HEAD>
<BODY>
on 07/12/02 7:18 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:<BR>
<BR>
<BLOCKQUOTE><FONT SIZE=3D"2">2. I w=
ould like to tow the trailer with a vintage auto yet to be purchased. My ide=
al; an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser station wagon. We are prepared to get a Subu=
rban, but if the right "car" was found I would be psyched (my wife=
? not exactly with me on the nostalgic side of the car). Any encouragi=
ng words?<BR>
</FONT></BLOCKQUOTE><BR>
Hi Jeff, <BR>
<BR>
You've read what Charles and Kevin had to say about the trailer. I'd =
pay close attention to what they have outlined. <BR>
<BR>
I'll chime in on the tow vehicle. It's been my experience that starting out=
with two unfamiliar vehicles simultaneously is a sure fire way to douse any=
enthusiasm my wife might acquire. To my way of thinking, there's no s=
ense intentionally stacking the deck against myself from the get go. <BR>
<BR>
Before you say, "Yeah but," I should tell you that my Airstreams =
and tow vehicles have been and still are maintained to the teeth by mechanic=
s who have a 25 year history of working for me, who know my vehicles inside =
and out, who know what challenges each tow vehicle must endure and what I wi=
ll be expecting from each while we're traveling. <BR>
<BR>
In spite of that, I'm the first to recognize that no piece of mechanical eq=
uipment is perfect and every one of them needs attention, sometimes at incon=
venient places around the continent. <BR>
<BR>
Each Spring, I use one or two of our tow vehicles to haul one of our Airstr=
eams and each Fall, I put both away in what I believe to be excellent condit=
ion. Yet, the next year, it takes one or two local trips to flush out the bu=
gs in both the tow vehicle and the Airstream. <BR>
<BR>
This year, my wife and I left Upstate New York for Colorado without a shake=
down trip. Dumb move, but so far, we've been fortunate in that each of our =
two problems occurred within 10 minutes of a place where quality service was=
available. <BR>
<BR>
But, back to your example. For me to intentionally buy a tow vehicle and a =
trailer that I have no prior experience with - and then take it on a first f=
amily outing with all the hopes and dreams normally associated with such an =
event - would be like asking for trouble with a capital T and then rol=
ling the dice. <BR>
<BR>
In my opinion, an extended summer vacation of going to all the new movies r=
eleased by Hollywood, going to different fancy restaurants twice a week and =
exploring all the famous sights to see within 100 miles of home would be far=
more satisfying to everyone involved and profoundly less expensive. My exam=
ples may not apply to your family, but I think you get the idea.<BR>
<BR>
How's that for encouragement? <BR>
<BR>
Terry<BR>
<BR>
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]=20
</BODY>
</HTML>
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------------------------------
Message Number: 17
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 12:04:29 -0600
From: Rob Davis <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: Security
Ron
How do you travel armed legally?
Is it because you are an officer or have a CCW?
If we are/have neither, would we be violating the law?
Are you going on the judged by 12 vs. carried by 6 premis?
Rob Davis
'64 GlobeTrotter
------------------------------
Message Number: 18
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 12:27:20 -0500
From: "Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: '74 Argosy Electrical Problems . . .
Super! the GFCI did its job perfectly. And now that you have fixed the
problem you have a better and safer wiring system in the trailer.
There's a small plate to cover the junction box on the belly of my '68
Caravel, no need to remove belly skin. Its labeled. I have no idea about
the Argosy.
Gerald J.
--
Entire content copyright Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer.
Reproduction by permission only.
------------------------------
Message Number: 19
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 14:03:45 -0500
From: schuetzen - RKBA! <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: Security
On Sat, 13 Jul 2002 12:04:29 -0600, Rob Davis <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>Ron
>
>How do you travel armed legally?
>Is it because you are an officer or have a CCW?
>If we are/have neither, would we be violating the law?
>Are you going on the judged by 12 vs. carried by 6 premis?
>
>Rob Davis
>'64 GlobeTrotter
>
Dan and Jim Greene I know from membership on some of my elists.
another slap on the back Dan.
you do not have to have a CCW license although I think personally that every
responsible adult should take the training and then carry. Back on point, it is
usually legal to carry a shotgun in your vehicle without license. just be sure
that neither the firearm nor the ammo is available from the driver position.
Does that help your self protection against being carjacked? no, of course not.
Get the CCL
It is legal in more than 35 states and a license in one is almost universally
accepted in every state which is not run by Socialists like Kalifornia, etc.
Remember, you have to park any firearms in lockers or with friends inside the US
before you go OCONUS. iow, do not enter Canada with a pistol or a rifle enroute
to AK. better, ship ahead or go up the coastal ferry instead. Shotguns and
Canada I am not sure about. just remember, it is a Socialist nation, like
Kalifornia.
Mexico? search your rig and your tow vehicle for even an empty cartridge case
or a bullet. components will get you long jail terms just as fast as finding an
actual firearm of any kind. With all the upset and banditry in Mexico, I refuse
to even drive into that country. Remember, Mexico is a Socialist nation with a
very strong Communist Party, just like Kalifornia.
enuff, just be careful, do take the training for the license and PRACTICE! you
owe it to your running buddy to be able to protect not only yourself but that
other person you are travelling with. Better, both of you should take the
training.
fwiw
chas
--
Charles L Hamilton, [EMAIL PROTECTED] Houston, TX
WBCCI #1130 VAC S*M*A*R*T
'76 Sovereign (www.schuetzen.net) join [EMAIL PROTECTED]
----------RKBA!---------------------------------
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------------------------------
Message Number: 20
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002 15:49:38 -0400
From: Ron Ainsworth <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Security
Ron
Q) How do you travel armed legally?
A) CCW and only take it where I know it's legal to do so.
Q) Is it because you are an officer or have a CCW?
A) I am a retired Officer and know how to handle the weapon and when to use
it if I have to. Range qualification requirements in my department was a
minimum of twice a year, and you could go as often as you wished.
Q) If we are/have neither, would we be violating the law?
A) See the first answer.
Q) Are you going on the judged by 12 vs. carried by 6 premis?
A) If that is anyone's frame of mind, they don't need to be in possion of
firearms. They should get a slingshot instead.
That is like saying, "I'll only take it out of the holster if I'm going to
use it."
However, I would gladly be tried by 12 if it means I used it to protect
Barbara. Who, by the way, can hold her own in a tight spot.
Here's a tip for you. Keep a cool head and steady hand. Make darn sure of
your target before you drop the hammer. Once that thing goes BANG!, all the
wishing and praying in the world isn't going to stop that bullet or change
the event.
A firearm is not a play thing. It is just a dumb piece of machinery that
only knows how to do one thing, and it will not do it until YOU tell it to.
Once that thing goes BANG! lives change. Life changes for you and for a lot
of people you may never even meet.
What say we get back on the subject of Vintage Airstreams?
Ron and Barbara Ainsworth
'72 Ambassador International 29'
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