Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Full Disclosure (the fine print)


I don't want to mislead any of you into thinking I have found a diamond in the rough. Truly, the Airstream IS a diamond among travel trailers. And the trailer I found IS rough. It IS also the same one I posted about in June as "The Saddest Part". The rear section has been cut away, where the window and storage hatch were in the rear of the trailer. Therefore, a lot of custom work will be required to make this trailer into a custom travel unit again. The black "stuff" around the opening is tar that did seal the plywood (rotted away) covering over the end of the trailer. At least who ever did this to the AS used stainless steel bolts. Some of you may be wondering why the opening was cut, to allow for a chest type deep freeze to be in the trailer. AARRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Monday, November 24, 2008

Hunting Season (Safari in the South Carolina Outback)







The air is crisp and the kudzu has been bitten by the killing frosts. The vines, leaves, and summer growth has released its grip on hidden away treasures.



My most recent find may well be my best find. It's a 1954 22' Safari with the front kitchen, rear twin bed floorplan. Far from perfect, the interior will be a custom challenge. There is some woodwork good enough for templates though. The exterior is nearly flawless as far as dents and dings are concerned. The bananna wraps have two, two foot long creases, but overall, not bad for a 54 year old trailer.



Getting it home was easier than some I have hauled. The bearings had been greased by the owner and the tires aired up. (tires on split ring wheels)(tires of "May-pop any minute" variety) I added the temporary lights, lubricated the hitch coupler, and was on my way for a relatively short recovery trip of 78 miles. Half-way home I stopped for lunch. When I returned to check the trailer over before leaving, I noticed that the streetside tire was almost flat. A quick tire change in the truckstop parking lot, gave me peace of mind again, and I continued home.



Have a great THANKSGIVING everyone.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Rally Time


This was our last scheduled rally for the Air Forums group. We call it Falluminum and camp at the Georgia Mountain Fairground in Hiawassee, GA. We had a great turnout for this rally. Many long time veterans and a few newbies were in attendance. We had a great Saturday Brunch, open house, and a potluck evening meal, followed by music and singing. Alan leads the "not really a band-band" and Ron, Mario, Brad, and Phil play acoustic, rhythm, lead, drums, and bass.

The campfires were welcome when our night time temps went to the lower 40's. The leaves were still colorful for one last weeknd of beautiful camping weather. We'll get together with this group again in April for Springstream.


On the way home, I was searching for a nice, down home place for a good meal. I got off the main road and headed for a small town main street. I saw a billboard advertising Clyde's Restaurant in Waynesville, NC. It looked promising since the parking lot was packed and it was almost 2PM on Sunday afternoon. I found a place to park the trailer and went inside. It was all I had hoped for and more. Sunday meal was plentiful (as if I hadn't had enough at Falluminum). The choice was for a main entree, salad or coleslaw, and two other veggies. Drink and dessert were also included. If you find yourself in Waynesville, NC for breakfast, lunch, or dinner (except on Mondays), stop in at Clyde's for food. You can't remain in business for 68 years without having a good reputation.