Dreamin of Streamin

Pilots N Paws Rescue Flight

2011-03-21T05:11:00.054-05:00

First let me say that my sister married someone I can honestly describe as a really "good guy." Someone she can share her interest in charities with and more. His name is Mike. He's an accomplished engineer and pilot with several cool hobbies including motorcycling and auto

restoration. Needless to say, sharing similar interests, we get along well. This is a good thing if you're going to be in a small plane together with 17 dogs for 12 hours.

Last week, I had an opportunity to tag along on a rescue mission with Mike. We flew down to Lawrenceville, a WWII airfield in southern Illinois to pick up 17 dogs that had been flown there by an equally altruistic Woman by the name of Rhonda Miles. Click here to learn more about Rhonda: http://www.bridgeofwings.com/rhonda.htm

Rhonda flew from Chattanooga, TN to Savannah, GA to retrieve these dogs. Then, when weather prevented the trip north, she found housing for them until the trip could be completed. The Savannah shelter had told her that if these dogs were not picked up, they would be euthanized. But not to worry, she was told, they would have a "new batch" within a week.

Break for a Public Announcement: Please spay or neuter your pets. Puppies are cute but there are too many and not enough homes as these photos will attest.

Our destination was Happily Ever After based in Green Bay, WI. http://happilyeverafterinfo.org/

This no kill shelter has a great story in itself. Amanda founded this organization after attending college and visiting Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah.

http://www.bestfriends.org/
She started working out of her grandparent's barn and continues to build a terrific legacy.

These 17 dogs bring Mikes shuttling total to 52 animals. As a point of reference, Mike has only been doing this for a year. And, Mike has shuttled almost exclusively between the Savannah shelter and Happily Ever After. Doesn't that make you stop and think how many other shelters there are and the staggering number of animals that don't get a second chance?

If you know a pilot or even someone with a car that can transport a single animal or 17 in crates as we did please let them know the need exists. And believe me, a small private plane has less room than most sedans would afford. Even if it's for just a few miles as part of a relay or during a trip that you'd be taking anyway, PLEASE contact Pilots N Paws or your local shelter or any rescue group that interests you. It doesn't take a lot of time, a fancy building or a pile of money to make a big difference to these animals.

Working with the Wisconsin Saint Bernard rescue we have driven to Chicago to pick up a dog from another transporter as part of a relay. We fostered when we could and have adopted three fantastic Saint Bernards over 11 years. However, we haven't come close to repaying the kindness shown by Jan, the tireless advocate of this organization http://www.wstresq.com/ .

What I'm trying to say is that the effort you put in is small compared to what you receive in return. Please take some time to visit these links and do what you can through volunteering, contributions of needed supplies or monetary donations.

And, if you are able to share your life and your home with a companion, please consider adopting an animal from a shelter or rescue rather than from a breeder or breeding your own pet. Almost every breed imaginable has a rescue group that picks up the pieces of those left behind. And non-specific breeds (mutts) can be just as rewarding and often have better lifetime health than heavily concentrated breeds.

Puppies and kittens to adults. All have a story. You can be their happy ending.

Aluminitus Runs Rampant In Wisconsin!

2011-03-21T03:05:00.003-05:00

I can hear it now. "What did you do?!?" or "What do you think you're going to do with that?!?" or "You haven't even finished the first one yet!"

And, these comments would be justified...especially since the person - (name withheld for peaceful home life purposes) - has not read anyone else's blog. If they had, they'd see this is an addiction. Or at the very least, an affliction. And the chances of relapse are great, indeed. Plus, anyone who knows me knows I cannot let anything suffer. I'd rather drag it home and give it a better place to live.

So is the case with my newest "adoption." A '70's something Safari. Unmolested but well used. Worn but not worn out. In need of TLC but previously unmolested and in "original" condition.

Gotta love fate. While riding a snowmobile trail I kept passing this old girl. I finally worked up the courage to stop in and speak to the property owner. He didn't own the trailer and directed me to the house down the street who did. No answer.

Home to the computer I went. I did a quick reverse look-up of the potential addresses and confirmed the resident names with the county tax record website. After 3 calls I managed to get the owner...who had just returned home.

His answer: "Why yes, I am looking to get rid of that piece of junk. We used to travel in it but now it's sat for several years. It was so heavy and unruly behind my Dodge Ram Pickup that I didn't like to tow it far. Now I don't have a big truck, so I can't use it. Was going to tear it apart for scrap, but if you want it, take it."

Suffice to say I just have to wait for the snow to melt to tow it home...less than 3 miles.

The history of this Safari is cloudy. Supposedly, some guy driving through Wisconsin many years ago asked a farmer if he could leave this trailer on his property and pick it up on his way back through. The guy never came back, believe it or not. After some time, the farmer offered it to his neighbor, the current owner's uncle. He applied for a replacement title and enjoyed camping in it for years. About 10 years ago he sold it to his nephew, the current owner.

And I didn't mention the best part. After speaking with the owner he figured out that as teen-agers we worked together Lifeguarding in Milwaukee. We've had some good talks reminiscing the last two days. I find it funny that I've been driving past his house for the last 5 years, here in the middle of no-where Wisconsin, and never would have known it if I hadn't spotted an old airstream sitting in a field along a snowmobile trail, less than 3 miles from home.

What a lucky find.

Had I not been snowmobiling, for the first time since moving here, I would never have known it existed. And, if that snowmobile wasn't a Vintage (slow) '79 John Deere, I probably would have been moving too fast to notice! In a few months this Safari may have been melted down in a 6-pack of Miller Lite.

Don't ask me where I'll go with it from here. Just know she's safe and will have a good home as long as I do.

Happy Spring!

UPDATE: 3-25-2011: Received 2" of ice, then 4"-6" of heavy wet snow on top on 23rd-24th. This has postponed my retrieval. What you can't see in the photos is a huge snowbank at the end of the neighbors drive needed to access this property. C'mon Sun! Melt me a path.

Holy Cow, What a Winter!

2011-03-03T00:26:00.001-06:00

I'll admit it. I LOVE WINTER.

Reasons:
1. No bugs.
2. No bugs.
3. No bugs.
4. Walking dogs is fun...because there are no bugs...especially ticks!
5. Snowmobiling is awesome, especially if you ride vintage.

Now the disclaimers.
1. Must have plenty of snow.
2. Must have more sunny days than cloudy.
3. Must have warm fire to keep out the cold.

That's it. And since these items were met with abundance, I've been a happy hibernator.

Here are some updates from the winter.

Some of our Wild Turkey Visitors.

We have 10-20 birds per group.

Several Groups per Day.

Two of our Guinea Hens taking a sun bath.

Hank (Left) Molly (Right) & Me

Wendy and Molly

'79 John Deere resurected and out on the trail

"Anyone can ride a new machine...

riding an old machine takes tools, skills and

the ability to walk long distances...

if the tools and skills don't work out."

'78 Airens runs like a champ!

Shop Update

2010-10-12T11:15:00.000-05:00

Managed to get some south facing windows installed. What a pain...literally. Hacking windows into corrugated metal siding and dealing with pole barn framing in an existing structure is not my idea of a good time. Give me stick built any day over pole buildings!

It turned out nice though. The windows are high, non-opening. Letting in plenty of low winter sunshine. Shielded by the eve's and leafy trees in the summer. Allowing full use of the wall beneath for peg-board and work benches. Perfect for my needs.

A nice little ride

2010-10-07T03:25:00.000-05:00

It occurred to me, halfway through the week of August 8th, that once again I was missing my long awaited trip to Sturgis, SD for the annual motorcycle rally. So in typical fashion, I thought about it some more. I was busy on Thursday, then Friday it rained. Crud.

Saturday morning: 5:30am. I made up my mind to ride on out. Heck, it's only 800 miles. I can make it by nightfall. And I did. After 13 hours in the saddle I made downtown Sturgis with 15 minutes to spare before the HOG (Harley Owners Group) display closed down. I got my free pin...and in the process, offered up further proof to my wife that I'm nuts.

Needless to say I missed a great many of the 500,000 bikers that attended during the week. From the steady stream of bikes, both trailered and ridden that I passed heading out, I thought it would be empty out there. It wasn't. It was a lot more subdued than I'd heard about. And having not stepped into one bar I wouldn't know how that scene stacked up. I rode until sunset each day, then stopped to eat, arriving back at my flop spot each night after 11, ready for a hot shower and sleep. Some might call it boring. I call it maximizing my scenic-time.

Met some interesting and friendly people. Saw abundant wildlife: buffalo, prairie dogs, turkeys, white tail deer, antelope, burros, mustang horses, hawks, eagles and all manner of other critters. Rode some agonizingly straight highways and others that are amazing feats of engineering. And took in as much scenery as my mind could process. It's completely different than if I was looking out a windshield hemmed in by a roof and doors.

After five days I returned home with 2000 miles added to the odometer, 450 photos and a slew of memories no one can ever take from me. All good.

There were so many more stops like Deadwood, Boot Hill, Lead (pronounced Leed), Canyons, Mountains, Badlands. Here's a sample.

Downtown Sturgis. And this is the last night of the rally?!?

Some of the "carnival-like" roads out in Mount Rushmore area.

Every tunnel has a view of the presidents. Reading the signs I learned that the tunnels were carved out, then a road was built to connect them. What a feat of engineering. Try doing that today.

A "traffic jam" in Custer park wildlife area.

A photo op everywhere you look.

An equally great monument. Especially since you can fit the entire Mount Rushmore sculpture into Crazy Horse's hair. And this sculpture will be carved on all sides, not just into the flat face of the mountain. Very interesting ongoing story. I don't remember my folks taking my sisters, grandma and I to see this in 1970 during our four week western tour in the Ford Wagon Queen family truckster.

Stavkirk Chapel in the Hills-Rapid City: A replica of a Norwegian church. Had to take a quick tour since we have a similar church on Washington Island off the northern tip of Door County, or Wisconsin's "thumb".

This is typical of the interesting road-side scenery. I just had to stop to check it out. This place has a long and storied history as THE general store on the way to Devil's Tower.

Took a two-lane black top home through Pierre, SD. Hooked up with a scenic by-way, a portion of the Lewis and Clark Trail and traveled through 5 different reservations.

Ever wonder where your sunflower seeds come from? Probably North or South Dakota according to the packages I checked in the gas stations after seeing field after field like this.

Up early. Last morning on the on-ramp. Heading East towards home.

Followed this ride up a month later with a nice leisurely ride to Tomahawk, WI for the annual MDA Fall Color Ride. Short by comparison at 500 miles round trip. Nice weather and great to see old friends and relatives in Northern Wisconsin's fall color display.

Talk about reigniting the travel bug. So many places to see. So little time.

What I did last summer

2010-10-07T02:45:00.001-05:00

For those who find this site and expect only Airstream related topics I apologize.

My Airstream has taken a back seat for months at a time and instead of giving the impression I've fallen off the map I've input some alternative activities. Hope that's OK.

After a recent bike trip I came home and tackled the floor with renewed vigor. Must have been the tour of Winnebago...along with the cooler weather.

Airstream Update:

A quick photo of the stuff that needs to be moved in order to get at the Airstream. This doesn't show the amount of rearranging within the barn to accommodate all the "stuff" stored within the Airstream since last year.

Rebuilt the water heater frame work-"While I was at it"

Difficult to see but removing the old flooring revealed somebody's tally. Assume it could have been from production line in 1965?

Finally got the beds out. Shown in rear 4' section is the fiberglass/epoxy flooring installed with plow bolts last year along with a small patch of regular plywood on lower left side. Rest of floor aft of Kitchen is solid. Varied color is due to old glue from original tile floor.

Installed new no-glue vinyl flooring. Neutral beige to match factory interior finishes still in place. It's been through a few heat-cool cycles now with beds and closets in place & screwed down on top of it with no sign of pucker or bumps. I only covered the areas that were covered from factory. Areas unseen aren't covered. This saves on material and weight while allowing me to cover complete trailer with single sheet of 12' x 14' sheet good.

Replaced bed's bulkhead walls and 2 closets. Closed up water heater hole. Rewired converter and got all electrics back up and running. No more blown fuses in the fantastic vent due to rusty ground wire bolt. Gotta love it when a plan comes together. Thank goodness for copious photos taken before disassembly. Printed a cheat sheet with 9 pertinent photos to make sure everything was hooked up the way it should be.

Not sure how I'm going to configure the bath and grey/black tanks yet so with no running water I'm back to my mobile aluminum tent.

Next project, checking the furnace. It's getting cold here in Wisconsin. Still would like to get a trip in to Door County this fall before the colors peter out. But, just in case I don't get it out again I took it for a spin around the farm country to excercise the tires. Pulled like a dream as usual.

Where the summer goes.

2010-07-06T01:53:00.001-05:00

The longest day of the year or Summer Solstice is gone. June 21st is the day I both dread and look forward to all year, second only to turning the short day corner on December 21st.

Let me clarify. I dread it because the days start getting shorter again on June 22nd. I look forward to it because it's the day I met my wife in 1986. It was the longest day of the year. It was the longest, strangest and most unforgettable night of my life. The details are still vivid.

A night of dancing at a club which no longer exists. A crazy drive to the beach. A tour of a haunted house. Then, conversation until dawn on a front porch swing. The number of possibilities that were so close to effecting a completely different outcome between four people are mind boggling. What-ifs galore.

Consequently, June 22nd was the longest work day of my life because I drove straight there at 5:30am and worked two jobs until after 6pm. After that my memory fades. It's hell getting old.

Why does it seem like time is speeding up as I get older?

The Airstream is still nestled in the back of the barn, where it was parked last fall. It has, once again, been filled with items I cannot find safe storage for elsewhere. This includes windows, antiques and the like. Funny how every year I vow not to repeat this and every year I do.

I did manage to dust off the motorcycle and take a few rides this year. Which are a few more than last year. I've also managed to complete some fairly major maintenance on two of our vehicles, plant a good garden and make a dent in our landscaping plan.

The hens are now full grown and doing their thing around the yard. I see them eating more grass than bugs though. They must be getting something out of what they eat since they aren't losing weight. Between the bird feeders and the hen's feeder I have fattened up the local squirrel squadron though. I'll cut the feed back until cold weather. Sorry squirrels.

I've also made the commitment to take the drive every other week-end to visit my folks. I'm trying to help them out around the house where I can, share a trip to the store and just spend some quality time visiting.

My first boss out of college said something that I've been trying to apply since that day. Luckily, it seems to be working better lately. He said, "wherever you are, be there." Simple enough right? When you're at work don't spend time thinking about other tasks. Just work. When you're on vacation, forget about work. Completely let go and enjoy. That's what he meant.

Applied to daily life, what good does it do anyone to visit family and friends when you're only half engaged? I've caught myself thinking about the chores I have waiting for me at home or the car that needs repairs or the Airstream I could be working on. How stupid does that sound? These unending to-do lists can drive me up a wall if I let them.

I'm happy to take care of what I can and not let the rest bug me too much. And guess what? My visits have been less stressful and a whole lot more pleasant, insightful and meaningful. Maybe getting older has some benefits after all.

Hot Chicks!

2010-06-07T14:59:00.000-05:00

Not what you think. I call them "Natural Pesticide" or what to do about abundant tick populations. Otherwise known as Guinea Hens. Different from chickens as they are actually part of the turkey family. Not great to eat or good egg layers, we chose them for their toughness and ability to eat bugs.

My wife calls them "Francis"...all of them, since we can't tell them apart. She said Francis could be a male or female name and something about her needing St. Francis' help in dealing with my constant animal population additions.

This breed is supposed to function fine out on their own once they have their adult feathers, can fly and know their way back to the coop. Some will choose not to come back to the coop until cold weather sets in, roosting in trees until then.

As they are now 6 weeks, we will soon find out whether they are smarter than the local predators. Not a pleasant thought but one I am determined to get used in order to embrace our homesteading life. We're working to getting them used to coming in every night at dusk for protection.

We'll see how it goes.

Here's a couple photos of the Coop-de-Ville I constructed along with their temporary enclosed exercise yard. Fully insulated with great views. Both are movable to make it easier to give them fresh "eats" daily now while captive and easier to relocate down the road.

I had fun building the coop because I challenged myself to construct it out of only materials I had on hand. Some left by the previous owners of our property: insulation, regular & pressure treated two-by stock, siding that was cut out from window openings and steel roofing-not installed yet. Some from previous projects: roofing felt our previous home roofing project, conduit handle-not installed left over from wiring in Las Vegas. Some from my childhood: wagon wheels from my Radio-Flyer. And some scavenged: two-bys from a neighborhood "curb pick-up" which I had previously used in my basement shelving, paint left over from my Dad's house and a Plexiglas window thrown out by a previous employer.

Average stored lifespan of materials not including 38 year old wagon wheels: 10 years. Some were moved 3 times. Crazy. Ah, the life of a pack-rat.

The only new purchase was door hardware and a great recycled plastic sheeting I found at Menard's. It doesn't have any out gassing smell like Filon or Fiberglass sheeting and was a reasonable $15 per 4x8 sheet. Total of 2 sheets were used to build the luxurious 16 square foot accommodation shown :) Supposedly four birds need 4 square feet each.

Cost savings over $500-$1500 coops seen on-line? Not much when you consider labor. Even with my fancy sliding screen door and cable TV.

But hey, we also won't be moving all that crap next time. And, since I'm hoping my next move won't be until they take me out of here feet first, I've just saved my poor relatives some additional cleaning & aggravation. That makes it priceless ;)

And no, I didn't actually install cable TV. We don't have that out here. And we have too many trees for satellite, so that's out of the question.

Memories of Anna 1911-2010

2010-05-09T11:23:00.000-05:00

In loving memory of Anna 1911-2010

My "Girls" Wendy and Anna

Although it’s not nice to reveal a ladies true age, this isn’t something Ann ever had a problem with…as far as I know. Although she did insist on 18 candles for her last birthday cake. She always acted as if she was younger than her years.

I feel fortunate to have known her for almost a quarter of the century she most fully lived. I don’t know the parts before. A child of immigrants, bread lines of the depression, growing up in Milwaukee…we never spoke about that.

I did hear bits and pieces from your single years. Working as a switch board operator for AT&T. Riding street cars with your girlfriends to dances at the Eagles Ballroom. Dances with the sailors who had leave in Chicago or Milwaukee. Then the trials of the Big War.

Some friends had money, some didn’t. All were taken care of and had good times despite the hard times.

Travel. Someone had a car. Girls on dirt roads. Friends posing in fancy outfits on bridges that likely don’t exist any more. Real adventure.

Always ready to go. The travel bug never ceased to bite. Camping with your family. You and grandpa sleeping in a teardrop camper while the boys each occupied a seat of the old sedan. Northern Wisconsin get-a-way’s in the early years. What must the mosquitoes have been like?!?

Fishing and hunting. The only woman allowed at the sacred deer camp that the old school house was. Maybe it was because you owned it? More than likely it was because you were respected as one of the “guys”.

Later there was a cottage where you had camped in long lake. Then basement was dug under it. Too deep you kept telling your husband! It became a retirement home for you both, but only for a short time before your husband left the earth. I never met him. But you weren’t alone. You had your boys to watch over you and grand-kids that visited every week-end they could.

Still the travel bug bit. A year had passed. It was time to get out of your funk you said. Time to get moving. Winter trips to Florida to chase away the blues. Joining the senior gals for card parties and bus trips to casinos and other attractions.

When we moved to Las Vegas you were one of our first guests. Hot tubs, nickel slots and the Gold Coast buffet. Let’s go see the Polish style oohm-pa-pa band up on Mount Charleston, then down to Red Rock Canyon. Feed the fish at Lake Mead, see Hoover Dam...so much to do.

Drive to California. Meet my Grandfather and his wife in Fullerton. See the beach. Toes in the Pacific. The second ocean, plus the Gulf waters. Add this to most of the Great Lakes. What a tally.

On to a bed and breakfast on Balboa Island. Then to San Diego. What fun. Let’s do it again.

But then we moved back to Wisconsin. Closer now. Our 5th wedding anniversary. As I stood in the door of your cottage, saying good-bye after our visit. I mentioned our trip plans. “Where ya goin? Hawaii? Oh…I always wanted to see Hawaii…”

Come with us. “No I couldn’t.” Why not? Yes you can and you will. “Yes, why not, I’ll go.” With a smile that lit up November.

We have two weeks: plane tickets, planning, a trip to Milwaukee for new eye glasses. We fly separately because my free mileage tickets are on two different airlines. My bad. My flight is great. I have the rental car waiting for you both. You and Wendy traveled together and look beat. No one at any airport will help with the wheel chair during transfers. Wendy has just run a marathon, pushing you along within the crowds. But you made it. As soon as the warm breezes hit you, both are smiling.

I had no idea until yesterday, at the funeral, that both your brothers served during WWII and both were in Hawaii on December 7, 1941. No wonder you wanted to come here.

We are out in Pearl Harbor, at the memorial, 56 years later. We are told we should all be reverently quiet. You search the wall for names you knew. I didn’t grasp what you told me then. I do today.

Lighter moments follow. A drive around the island. We grab some fresh fruit and lunch and eat at a park on the beach. We stop next at the famous North Shore. I wheel your chair down through the sand to the waters edge. Toes again in the Pacific. The South Pacific this time. You add it to your tally.

The surfers are warming up for an upcoming competition. One sees you standing in the waves and offers his surfboard to you for a ride. It’s all we can do to talk you out of it. You pout, then laugh.

The waves sweep you off your feet. It’s our fault really. You can’t take grandma’s to the water and not expect them to go swimming. We should have brought a change of clothes. Wet shorts the rest of the day. No complaints, just giggles from the back seat as we continue to circumnavigate the Big Island that day.

Over on Maui our ocean view room is anything but. Only if you sit in just the right spot on the balcony and crane your neck. Oh well. You sit on the beach and we snorkel. On our anniversary you insisted we go off and have dinner, just the two of us. Dinner was a bust. Too close to the lobster tank. We’re both too empathetic for that. Poor service to boot.

No, the thing I remember most vividly about that night is coming home and seeing you had, by yourself, dragged the chaise lounge and a lamp out on the balcony. You had a beer in one hand and one of your ever-present crossword puzzles in the other. You had enjoyed the sunset and were taking in the breeze. We all laughed.

Then there was the luau on the beach. Much better than our first visit 5 years ago. No hi-balls but the punch sure had a punch. Don’t get me started on how Wendy finagled a ride back to the room on a golf cart. The luau photo we took of the three of us, all decked out in our Hawaiian prints, is my favorite of the trip. The frame is ringed with the sea shells of the leis we wore that night. You had it on the wall of your cottage, then your nightstand the past few years and finally at your funeral yesterday.

That is how I’ll remember you. Always ready to go. Somewhere. Anywhere.

It was only a few years until you came to live with us. We thought we had lost you. You bounced back after a few months. Travel wasn’t possible like it used to be. You still wanted to go. Short trips around the block in the chair. Going out to eat. Sitting on the front porch we built for you, taking in the sun and breeze. Wendy named it Anna’s Cabana.

Later you needed more care than we could provide. Our little house wasn’t designed for this. We weren’t able…I’m sorry.

Saint Ann’s Rest Home. A fitting name now that I think about it. Nun’s in full-proper habits every day, no matter the weather. I think of the word “Penguins” because of an old line from a movie, but dare not to say it. Nor do I tell them I’m a Lutheran for fear of…well Nuns!

Floors you can see your reflection in. Gardens full of flowers and vegetables that we wheel through. Always something to discover. A day care next door. You can hear the children playing through your window. We made sure you had a window facing south. A body needs sun.

So much different from the other “homes” we checked out which were nothing more than elderly warehousing. This place and those who work and serve here are wonderful. I can’t thank them enough.

This is the time for memories. Fortunately you have many for review. Many shared. Many, I’m sure you didn’t. In fact, you always seemed to be more interested in asking me questions than answering. Always wanting to know, “what’s new?” and “whacha been up too?” “Anything exciting?”

Your life couldn’t have always been as good as you made it out to be. Your health wasn’t always as good as your remembered. But you always said you were fortunate. For family, friends, health and opportunities not missed and never taken for granted.

In the end it wasn’t a long struggle. It was as if a switch had been turned off. Rest Anna. You’ll soon feel better. That was Sunday May 2nd.

As she fell in and out of consciousness I whispered goodbye and told her to be good. She pursed her lips, as she often did for fun and without opening her eyes, shook her head a defiant: No. I said, “you’re right, you have more fun being sassy.” She shook her head: Yes. I told her I loved her and left, knowing this was the thought she would leave me with. Classic Anna.

You were gracious. You were kind. You were my extra “bonus” grandma that my wife freely shared.

Where should we go today, you would ask.
Where would you like to go?
Anywhere fun, you would answer.

Anywhere….Anytime…Anna

The Shop Progresses

2010-03-19T23:43:00.001-05:00

First let me voice an opinion. I don't think pole barns are the best buildings to build unless you just need something fast. To be fair, the previous owner never wanted a finished space as I do.

I just think anything that rely's on wood in the ground for a "footing" and horizontal boards on 9' centers for supporting snow loads on the roof and hanging siding on the walls is cheap. Once you beef up the structure to accommodate insulation, wiring, cabinetry and ceiling, you have the typical framing needed for a stick-built structure. Cost becomes a near wash either way.

That said, I've probably overdone the framing in my typical way of doing things. I could have gone a faster route of plugging up the vented eves and soffets and added blankets of insulation to the walls. But after consulting the original contractor/building manufacturer and the local lumber yards, no-one could tell me any easier or more efficient way of installing a ceiling that would allow insulation. Plus, I wanted walls that could be insulated & support cabinets and windows. Plus, if the underground wood should ever rot the walls and structure will now ride on the concrete slab which has a perimeter footing. Kind of a building within a building.

Framing, Wiring, Hanging Ceiling, More Wiring, Insulating. It would sure progress faster if I didn't have to move all the "stuff" every time I needed access overhead or on a wall. I've been doing me best at being a good husband this winter. I've left room every night for my wife's vehicle which is kind of like completing a puzzle at the end of each nights work.

At least it's coming along. Can't wait to get the lighting and reflective surface materials installed.

Additional laminated beams to free span the 30' width were added to support dropped ceiling since original trusses were never meant to support the additional structure & load.

Pink polystyrene installed to isolate the fiberglass batt insulation from the potential of wet sweating steel siding.

Framed walls on right are from office previous owner had installed. Photo in prior log entry shows it at rear of garage. These walls, which include an entry door for the shop, will be re-installed as a movable wall dividing parking from shop space. This allows reconfiguration of the space as different projects require.

Framing around garage door opener. Finished ceiling height will be 9'.

Installed finished ceiling in raised center section of shop to allow easier maneuvering of sheet goods, etc. Height is 10'+. Hole is for ceiling fan.

Uninsulated section will be window. This faces south for light & winter passive heat. Eve's and oaks will provide shade during summer.

Winter 09-10 Shop Project

2010-03-04T01:05:00.000-06:00

My initial goal was to insulate and heat my garage shop so I could complete other projects this year. Among them a bench I started for my parents a few years ago in my previous home. Which was coincidentally, the last time I used most of my stationary tools.

Since moving I've had to cover them all in oil & grease to stop the work surfaces from rusting due to cold and humidity. Waxing just didn't help. This really chaps my hide...so insulation allowing efficient winter heat & summer a/c along with using a dehumidifier is the plan.

Here's the before shot. 30Wx40Lx9H. Open-vented ceiling, small office in the back, non insulated.

See that stack of lumber and white metal sheeting on the left and the pallet of insulation to the right of the office? I'm embarrased to say that was delivered 3-7-2007. I could give reasons for delays of this project, like selling our other house or wondering if I'd be better off returning the materials and moving somewhere else, but they'd only sound like excuses. Like I've said before, life gets in the way some times.

I'm really looking forward to utilizing this space. Without a basement I've been lost. And, if I do eventually have to move at least I won't have to take all that material with me. I just hope I'll be able to take full advantage of this improvement and not some other guy.

Keeping me busy III

2010-03-04T00:42:00.000-06:00

Fall Chores Continue

Putting away the Airstream for the year leaves me free for all sorts of other fun stuff.

Once the Garden was done, the old plants composed and the soil turned over I could move on to more destructive tasks. Like trimming trees.

Seems every year I have a big pine die off and while I'm not afraid to drop them myself I'm also not foolish when it comes to getting help with the dangerous stuff.

Like pruning my multi century old oak. This I didn't want to screw up. So since I had a professional over to to drop two split top pines way too close to my house I had him tackle the oak. I had an 80lb branch drop on the driveway during a storm...right where I stop every day when picking up the mail.

Late fall is also the best time to trim oaks around here to allow time to heal before summer and avoid oak wilt.

Unlike the local hwy department yahoos who use a flail chain brush mower to "prune trees". This little job took me a day to repair, cutting back each damaged branch of each tree all the way down the frontage.

Carnage courtesy of the hwy department morons. And on the coldest day of the year too. Glad I pay taxes for this brain trust.

Moving on the the back of the house. Making room for what we hope will be an addition. Hated to see these healthy trees cut. But they were way too close to the house and once down, each had splitting visible in the crotches of the split crowns.

The clean-up took the better part of a day, plus a really nice bon-fire once we had a layer of snow on the ground.

My best attempt at lumberjack impression.

I've peeled the bark on each tree I've dropped. Not sure what I'll use them for...yet.

Keeping Me Busy II

2010-03-03T23:37:00.000-06:00

This fall we decided to replace our old pellet stove. We suspect ours was leaking CO2 into the house, even though our detector wasn't sensing it. With the current tax credits and the new features on stoves now; thermostats, safety shut-down, higher efficiency I know we'll enjoy it.

It is our primary source of heat through the cold winters here in Wisconsin.

I'll rebuild the old stove and use new pipe when I install it out in my workshop this winter.

With all our "companions" I always have plenty of project assistance.

Building the base to raise the stove and allow use of the same exhaust hole.

Preparing for tile.

Tile done.

Stove mounted and working with only trim left to do. I called my wife and left a caveman grunting type message. Something like, "We Have Fire, ar ar ar"

She said she'd save it and play it for her family. Great, as if they didn't already think I'm paddling in circles with only one oar mentally in the water.

What else has been keeping me busy???

2010-03-03T21:38:00.000-06:00

While not really a Project I haven't missed a fall motorcycle ride to Tomahawk Wisconsin, 14 years running. Here's a few of the standout photos. You can learn and see more at: tomahawkfallride.com

Getting there is half the fun. And just riding straight to Tomahawk, like I did this year, isn't nearly as fun. Normally, a buddy and I will find a new route each year to see something new. One year it was riding down to Iowa and taking the Great River Road up the Mighty Mississippi.

The following year we took both his kids along. They were troopers as it stayed below freezing for most of the ride.

Last year we rode up Wisconsin's "eastern seaboard". Cruising along Lake Michigan, then over to Lake Superior before heading south to Tomahawk.

Ready to leave my house. My buddy Pete on the left. Hard to believe we've each been riding more than 30 years.

Lake Michigan

"Roughing It" on the shore of Lake Michigan

One of the water falls feeding Lake Superior

Lake Superior From Above

Lake Superior "On The Beach"

Pete wanted to walk in two of the great lakes on the same day.

Lots more riding including Porcupine Mountain, some rain, three different meals of Pasties (a Michigan favorite of breading stuffed with meat, potatoes and sometimes vegetable) and on to Tomahawk in time for Friday's parade.

Here's a picture of the main drag through Tomahawk, WI.

On Friday night they shut down the town and start the festivities with a bike parade. Harley hosts through HOG (Harley Owner's Group) participation, demo rides, bike shows, vendors, food and fun.

Tiny Tomahawk, which boasts two Harley manufacturing facilities, swells from roughly 3000 residents to 30,000 bikers looking to see some fall colors and enjoy the last big ride of the season.

Bikes range from new.

These sidecars give a group of blind riders a neat opportunity to feel the wind and bugs in their teeth.

To bizarre...

To classic...

To the very old...and cool.

After the parade, main street is shut down. Semi trailers with bands already playing are driven into place at either end of the main drag. Bikes line the curbs and middle, along with all the side streets. It's like a little Sturgis.

In addition, churches, schools, sport groups like the local hockey league host tents providing every imaginable form of food and drink for the attendees. Good stuff.

There's always plenty to do over the week-end. Maybe you're into racing. How about garden tractors hopped-up and screaming?

Or maybe you'd rather race on a bar stool?!?

Then there's the car & bike shows that range from the smooth...

To the Rat & Rough...

Too much to see and do. Always a good time, rain or shine.

Where does the time go?

2010-03-03T19:43:00.000-06:00

So, one minute I'm standing on my driveway, inside my trailer...admiring my handiwork and then it's nearly spring. I've found that unless I'm really in the mood and don't have anything else pressing (when is there not?) I don't update as I should for far too long.

Truth be known it's my fault due in no small part to my camera. I finally spent an afternoon downloading, categorizing and deleting about 1500 of the 3000+ photo's on the memory card. No small feat in itself. Now newer photos will download to my computer much faster.

Well, fear not, I've actually accomplished a few things. And just as I hoped, this blog is serving to remind myself that I'm actually getting something done around here.

Before winter struck, I managed to put my chrome home back together...mostly. Here are the photos.

Old rotten rear floor with mild rust on frame.

Found the source of my leak in a cracked pipe pictured lower left. Also, typical rot under rear channel in trunk area.

Old floor to be used as template for new. High Density Polyethylene in background.

Big Hole.

The MONEY SHOT: Standing ON driveway, INSIDE trailer.

New flooring, NO PLYWOOD. Underside is sheet of same material used on hockey rink side boards and dump truck bed liners: high density polyethylene. I originally wanted to use a 5/8" thick layer but weight was major factor at 70+lbs for a 4x8' sheet of 1/2".

Instead I used thin layer under combined with a sample of fiberglass/epoxy hybrid I received to equal original floor thickness. I would have used a single sheet of the hybrid but couldn't source a 5/8" thick sheet at that time.

Prepped frame with hours of wire wheel work. The original grey and black paint was still stuck on pretty well. I didn't want to sand blast since frame was relatively clean and sandblasting tends to leave sand and dust everywhere that keeps filtering out for years. Plus, if you believe the advertising, the two coats of Por 15 that followed are supposed to stick better to light pitting and surface rust than to raw steel. If this was a frame off, it would have been faster and more effective to media blast.

I upgraded from 1/4" to 5/16 bolts, washers and nylocks around the perimeter. Lesson learned here: nylon lock nuts gall stainless bolt threads. Never happens to me with normal stainless nuts and lock washers. Tried to remove one and found bolt had to be overtorqued until it snapped. Guess that will be a job for the next owner...since I hope this floor lasts the remainder of my life.

I used plated elevator bolts. I found that standard 1/4-20 x 1-1/4" length weren't long enough where floor overlaps and frame is lowered. Picked up some extras at 2".

This photo shows additional angle stock I welded in across rear under trunk area between frame rails. After talking with Inland RV I agree the flat bar stock is flimsy and reinforcement makes sense. I happened to find a 1-1/2x1-1/2"galvanized angle at my local scrap dealer. I ground off the coating at the ends before welding and fit it under the repainted flat bar. Up top I reinforced the body u-channel with 2 pieces of 1/8" thick 1"x1"aluminum angle inside, riveted to each other to form a U and then inside the original. The bolts across the back now pass through 1/4" galvanized angle, the original 1/4" flat stock, the flooring, then the original aluminum body channel and 2 layers of 1/8" aluminum angle.

This baby's strong now. Hey Frank, you won't see my bumper bouncing now!

And NO, I didn't install the sewer hose cover. I'm going to find a different way to skin that cat so I don't funnel water into the back of the trailer like the original design did.

View from rear, no tanks, belly pan lowered only where flooring repair done.

New floor top view. This side is the 1/2" thick fiberglass/epoxy board I'm testing. They didn't have 5/8" to match original floor thickness, but it could be custom ordered. This is the same material high end boats are using due to it's weather resistance, high compressive and shear strength along with lighter weight.

Weight of 1/2" 4x8' sheet of materials are:
Plywood=42-48 lbs depending on core, treated or non-treated.
Solid HDPE (High Density Polyethylene=70 lbs.
What I used: Glass reinforced urethane=32 lbs.

Costs will vary by suppliers but for a single sheet replacement like this all products I looked at were similar in price.

Note to self: instead of using a spade bit to countersink the elevator bolts, next time use your forsner...much cleaner and easier!

*Dark spot on right is water. Dark spot on left is spilled Por15...oops.

Here's a close up of flooring, showing woven mat. Some surfaces during the factory sanding process. Cost isn't bad, compared to treated or especially marine grade plywood. I didn't have to spend time with chemicals and epoxies sealing edges, etc. Weight is as mentioned, lower than plywood. The only downside might be screw holding ability. For that I can block under at closet & cabinet locations.

We'll see how it all works out as the miles add up.

No Frank, I'm NOT CAMPING!

2009-08-03T02:00:00.001-05:00

It seems like just yesterday I was sitting at the International Rally in Madison, WI...agreeing with Frank Yensan about using your trailer, not gutting it and then wishing you were camping. So what did I do? Let's just say I have a partial GUT JOB.

Yes, I've joined the few, the proud, the: I stand on my driveway where there used to be a floor crowd.

Since I don't want to do this again, I've done my investigation into alternative flooring that won't rot. I've got pricing and samples coming on some interesting alternatives. The Carver Yacht company has a facility 40 miles from me and they're using a lightweight fiberglass sheet product that has promise. Unfortunately, I spoke to the product manufacturers rep over a week ago and I'm still waiting on those samples. I've got a back up plan to use either a variation on the HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) which is heavier than I'd like or Plywood with epoxy which is more fuss and less quality than I'd like. Meantime I'm re-wiring my garage to get my air compressor up and running, then plan to tackle the rust removal and frame repaint.

I'm only taking down as much of the belly pan and removing only the minimum interior as needed for the rear floor repair. I planned to have everything back together in 1-2 weeks...ya right. Now it's camping by Labor Day or BUST!

Here's the carnage. Sure wish I was camping but I know the work I do now will save additional damage to my trailer.

Before:

During:

After:

I'll worry about the bath remodel, plumbing and tanks this winter or as $$$ allow. It didn't work anyway and I'm fine in my aluminum tent for the remainder of this season. Good news is, I found my leak!

See the crack in the gray y-pipe? Yep, that comes from the sinks and tub. And the black soap scum that had penetrated the floor didn't help the smell back there. Since removing the wet flooring the trailer smells a lot better. It's true what I recently read on the Airstream Forum: Trailers shouldn't smell. Funky or otherwise.

More Photos from the International Rally, Madison-WI

2009-07-06T14:26:00.000-05:00

Dusk at Jefferson, WI

VAC Staging June 26, 2009

One of few Wisconsin round barns left, off Hwy 18 between Jefferson and Madison. This one is home to a great corn maze.

A neat Curtis Wright (yes he's allowed in the rally) all the way from California. Roomy inside with a hidden air conditioner that kept interior temps cold enough to "hang meat" as my dad is fond of saying.

A triple tow rig complete with vintage 60's Nomad Boat/Camper combo bringing up the rear.

The GRASS Vintage Parking Area.

It is said you can judge a shine by whether a woman can apply her makeup in the reflected image. This one was mirror fine!

What my trailer wants to be when it grows up.

This is a nice '65 Ambassador International.

A little shorter than my Sovereign.

Would have liked to poke around, but 5:30am was not a time to knock.

David Winick's latest project: A 1948 Wee Wind under restoration.

Not one to miss out, David slept in the shell, on a piece of foam.

Thanks for being there David, your humor, stories and information were great.

Cake at one of our Happy Hours

What's one of the fun things to do at an Airstream Rally?

Learn Something.

I'm glad I got to attend a CPR/CCR class to update my skills.

Here's a couple photos of a riveting class. No pun intended.

The woman pictured had just bought a rivet gun and couldn't wait to learn how to use it before tackling the interior panel of her trailer.

Dinner with my neighbors in the drizzle under my awning.

Steve, thanks again for helping "free the awning". Frank, thanks for the penatrating oil. We discovered sand in the awning rails. The previous owners must have liked parking on the beach.

Another feast at the Yensan's place.

Thanks again for your generous hospitality!

This goes for Frank, Steve & Marc and their families as well as David and Deb. You all made me feel very welcome.

Fellow Wisconsinite Steve and I will agree: The DC Unit Rules!

Our group took a tour through the rolling hills west of Madison to find some cheese factories. Here are some photo's in and around Mineral Point and Pendarvis, WI.

While none of the factories visited were actively making cheese, I learned a lot about other products and processes. Plus, the company on the drive was great. Thanks for the great conversation and stories Dale.

Pendarvis, WI

For those who didn't turn around...inside joke.

Our tour guide at Brunkow Cheese, Darlington WI.

She pointed out being smaller has its advantages including receiving a nice bonus each time she climbs inside the tank, pictured behind her, to clean it out.

Not sure I could do it even if I did fit in that small opening!

Making cheese spread. Sealing the tops of the containers with Irons.

Cheese in the Mold room. A temperature and humidity controlled room where cheese develops a mold or "rind" on the outside during the aging process.

More fancy cheese from the "mold" storage room. How fancy? Let's just say a little wedge of these small circles goes for over $10. I was in a hurry during check out and didn't see the price. I'll let you know if it was worth it once we taste it. All part of the experience.

It went by too fast. Next time I'll take time off from work so I can enjoy it more. Learned lots. Have lots to do before the next trip. Thanks to everyone who made my first trip and first rally a great experience.

Greetings From Madison WI: Intl Rally

2009-06-29T09:24:00.001-05:00

Hello and a sincere Wish You Were Here!

Sorry in advance, but I'm going to wait to post pics until I return home. Now that they're posted, sorry if it takes too long to load. I'll attach additional photos to a separate page. Once I figure out how to compile a panaramic shot, I'll have an awsome shot of the vintage area.

I drove the whopping 2 hours south to Jefferson WI on Friday. This isn't far compared to many hear from CA, AZ, NY, TX, FL, Canada, Sweden and all points in between. I drove down after working and calling on customers while towing my 30' silver bullet. Now that's a conversation starter!

The Jefferson Co. Fairgrounds are great. Nice facility. Clean showers. Friendly staff. Plus, we had the bonus of a Truck and Tractor pull on one side and a Horse show on the other. For some, it might have just been noise. For me, it was fun.

Sunset in Jefferson, WI

The Tractor Pull-Jefferson, WI

We had around 68 trailers in all. Nice turn-out. Great people. Already making good friends.

Here's just a few shots of the line-up Saturday morning. Ready to roll into Madison.

This Curtis Wright participated in the Vintage Airstream Club (VAC). Although not an Airstream, it's one sweet trailer owned by a great couple from California. This is one of several interesting trailers they've had or restored.

Sweet combo and a really nice couple.

This car reminded me of my '64 Impala SS I bought & restored while living in Vegas.

He even chromed the hitch!

Rob & Zoe Baker's rig with Sweet Sovereign in tow.

Yes the siren works, Rob proved it throughout the parade!

The weather was really warm Friday and Saturday. But a light shower cleared things out and it's been fantastic since. Blue skies, low humidity and a nice breeze to challenge the awnings. Especially if you're parked on ASPHALT with a POLE AWNING. Sorry, didn't mean to get that discussion going again. Right Deb? ;)

Look closely and you'll see the string of trailers in the rear view.

Almost there!

Waiting on the Off Ramp.

The view back down the freeway after we made the turn.

Staging for the parade. Mount the flags!

Too bad Rob left the rally before I could snag a flag pole holder!

The VAC Presidents ride. Nice rig Scott.

Another exceptional combo.

Fellow Airstreamers lined up to watch the Vintage Parade.

Now we sit and wait. It took us 30 minutes to drive 20 miles then 30 minutes to stage and 45 minutes waiting to park. On ASPHALT. Again, not trying to get anyone started. It was a good chance to meet some more "Streamers".

Marc and Becky's Rig, me and Frank behind.

We caravanned in to Madison Saturday morning, then paraded around the grounds while all the early birds looked on and cheered. The luck of the draw landed me in line with the rest of the 3 Amp crowd. Right in between Rob Baker and Frank Yensan, to name just a few. Everyone has been kind to this newby, outgoing to the point of insisting I join their families and groups for meals and activities and gracious beyond belief with information, supplies or assistance. I've also met several local Wisconsinites that I'll introduce you to later, including Steve and his family from Byamcaravanner blog fame. What a fun start to what has been a great experience so far, with more interesting events planned.

Had a little trouble hooking up the computer this morning so I gave up on WiFi and resorted to a hard wired ethernet connection. They could use a few more cables for us low-tech people but then again we could have brought our own. Good service through the Alliant Energy Center.

I've checked e-mail, gotten a report out for work, contacted some customers for appointments tomorrow and updated my blog. Now it's time to go listen to Dale "Pee Wee" Schwamborn tell about his Airstream history and the Africa Caravan. He's been very informative and entertaining with his recollections around our camp-site the past few nights. What a treat.

Dale "Pee Wee" Schwamborn and me hanging out in front of "Anna".

If you're like me and have a trailer but haven't used it or haven't used it in a WHILE. Please, do yourself a favor: GET OUT out and discover something like this. I finally did, on this first trip out of the barn in 4 years of owning my first travel trailer. My only regret now is: WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG!?!

This is a great experience...and we're all here waiting for you to join us.

Last Minute Update

2009-06-26T09:05:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the lack of updates. I've been scrambling to get everything done to head to the International Rally in Madison, WI. I leave today for the Jefferson, WI rendezvous of the Vintage Airstream Club. Looking forward to meeting all the bloggers and folks who have kept these classics on the road and inspired me in the process.

Recent accomplishments: Installed a Fantastic Vent fan to replace the crumbling plastic dome someone had installed on an old Herr vent base. Now that I know what I'm doing the next will go fast. I don't want to admit how long this one took to install. Finished cleaning the walls and all bedding. Had spare set of keys made. Installed two new window operators and two new cabinet latches. Just finished a FAQ sheet to post on my window at the rally. Still have to pack, weld safety chains on and try the awning poles. The awning looks great but the aluminum poles seemed to be jammed. I've been soaking them with penetrating oil, we'll see if it worked.

You can tell the difference in chain size. The originals are on top. Update following the Rally: I spoted the same"swing set" size chain I saw on other 1965 trailers at the Rally. Liability laws must have been different in 1965.

A word about insurance. I called to get value insurance on the trailer. I'm covered through my home-owners policy when the trailer sits and through my vehicle insurance when I drive against liability. I know they won't cover the actual value of this trailer given the age. So I have stated the value as at a fair amount should I suffer a total loss. This is something I can back up with Internet valuations, receipts and E-bay trackings. A separate appraisal was not be needed until the value escalates with the restoration completion. Total cost for peace of mind, $47 for the year through my capable agent at American Family Insurance. For comparison, my 1970 Oldsmobile has similar insurance and costs $42 yearly.

I'm happy to say my A/C is working great and so is the fridge. It's unfortunate that I won't be able to use them at the rally since we will be in the 3 amp area.

All packed and ready to roll. I'll be making sales and service calls on my way today. Should be fun...can't forget I'm 50' not just 20' when driving today!

Hope to see you there. I'll post updated photos and rally photos when I return.

More Little Things

2009-06-07T13:40:00.000-05:00

The list of items to check off before the International Rally in Madison, WI grows. Last night I installed a 30 amp outlet in the pole barn. It's a nice easy reach to the back of the trailer. This way I can power up without using the standard 120 volt outlet adaptor. Previously, to test the trailer I had to pull out of the building to the outlet mounted on the garage, in a funny place, by the previous owner.

Next, I fixed the previously damaged trailer to vehicle connection. I'd purchased a new lead with plug but until I rip off the belly pan or investigate the interior of the trailer further this repair will work great.

I wish I had photos of how I jury rigged it in Ohio. My van was wired incorrectly, it was getting dark and I had a long drive ahead. So I went with wire nuts, a plastic bag and lots of electrical tape which has worked fine for the past few moves. Now it was high time for something better looking and less prone to fits of laughter from my fellow Aluminites.

Turns out the cable was so long I was able to avoid splicing it back together which would be a recipe for future head-aches. It's actually longer than needed still with 18" missing. No wonder the previous owner dragged it on the ground.

Then I moved on to re-coating the woodwork with oil. The previous cleaning and oiling still left areas looking dry and dull.

It's been raining the last few days so no ventures outside with the trailer. I'm missing a rear vent cover which disintegrated in my hands when I took it out for sizing a replacement cover. I'm on the list at the rally to have a new Fantastic Vent installed. Not sure if I'll wait or purchase one and install it myself before then to save cost. Time is running out.

Next I investigated my flooring. I've currently got older gross brown indoor-outdoor carpeting covering the floor. Lucky for me it's held down with sporadic pieces of double stick carpet tape. I can see nice looking plywood underneath with signs of the glue that likely held down the original flooring or floor tiles. I won't be messing with this before the rally since any new flooring installed now would only need to come out again during the restoration.

On to vacuuming and cleaning in the nooks and crannies. If I'm going to spend any time in there this summer I want it clean. Take this exhaust fan filter for example. Its got the typical dust and dirt on it, along with a paper wasp and mud dauber nest. Ohio must have a lot of mud daubers as these mud nests were found in various nooks and crannies outside and inside the trailer.

Last, I tried all my keys and locks. Although I was given four keys by the previous owner I only use two. One for the dead bolt. One for all three outside compartment doors. These are very stubborn and need to be lubed. Next trip to town I'll have multiple copies made. Don't want to be locked out while traveling! Update: Looking through my key stash, I found an extra set. Had one more made for good measure. Still don't know what the extra two keys out of four total are for. One key opens my deadbolt and all three access doors are opened with the same key. One of the unknown keys does open my home's sun porch screen door though...bonus!

Little Projects

2009-06-01T17:22:00.000-05:00

So between the garden, 6 hours a week on a lawn tractor, dog walking-followed by tick checks, dog shearing, dog obedience class, dog swim lessons, dog feeding-followed by dog poop patrol...natually. Noticing a trend here? Then there are normal house chores, not so normal lumberjack impersonation & turtle highway safety patrol and of course the dreaded 4 letter word: WORK otherwise known as J.O.B.

I'm making progress, albeit slowly. I know, they sound like excuses. Here's some proof.

Rewired the trailer plug so it will work with my truck. I've only pulled it with my van so far and it has the power and brake wired in reverse. This makes things interesting. Next, I'll correct the van wiring.

Continued to clean the interior...after removing the accumulated STUFF from within. Seems like trailers become a storage unit if your not careful. Dog kennels, office chair, spare restoration parts, future gaucho cushions salvaged from our sofa & love seat the dogs thought was their teething toy. Three hours later I can actually walk through!

Installed new license plate. Wisconsin is funny. I have a brand new looking 4 year old license plate and now I have another. My cars, on the other hand, have really grungy looking plates that they choose not to refresh. Go figure. They must want to keep the boys in our numerous prisons busy. They went from blue to grey. Boring to really drab. Too bad I can't polish it!

Decided I needed to exercise the anti-aging compounds in the tires. Truth be known, I get a kick out of towing this beast. Plus, the dogs wanted to go for a ride.

I wanted to see how the Toyota would handle the load. Due to gearing differences, the Toyota did better towing with a 4.7 liter V-8 than my 5.7 liter Chevy van. The van has too steep a rear gear which at 3.73 you wouldn't think. Fine for 75 mph in overdrive but put it in tow mode and it feels like the engine is "screaming". Need to put a tach on it to find out for sure.

The Toyota hums along in Tow mode at just 500 more RPM than Over Drive at highway speeds. 2500 rpm versus 2000. Hopefully the mileage doesn't suffer too badly. No sway at speeds to 70mph. Stock mirrors provide good rear view, plus opening front and rear trailer window blinds allows view to the rear. Looks like a winner!

She Ain't Pretty, But She Works!

2009-05-18T18:40:00.001-05:00

There's nothing quite as cool as the light coming out the windows of a silver trailer at night.

Aluminitus Symptom #6: Sometimes you just need some inspiration to keep going.

So, believe it or not, I've owned this trailer for 3-1/2 years and haven't plugged it in. To be fair, I bought it on E-Bay, picked it up out of a snow bank and never had the opportunity to connect it. I figured it would be a gut job anyway. Once stored in my garage I was afraid I'd start the place on fire.

But tonight I needed some inspiration. So after totalling the number of window cranks I need from Vintage Trailer Supply (3) and cabinet latches (1)I decided to roll the dice.

Surprise, everything works. And no smoke! Well, at least everything lights up or makes noise. Lots of noise from the ancient converter. Outlets, lights, ceiling and exhaust fans, furnace and A/C...all work. Not sure if the A/C will blow cold or the furnace hot, but hey, the fans work. The battery indicator works too. Hot water heater wasn't tested due to dry system and fridge is electric replacement which I'll try tomorrow.

I've seen what's behind the walls of these trailers and it doesn't make me comfortable using the trailer in this condition. Old aluminum wire that's bounced down the road year after year. Lots of wire nuts and electrical tape over splices. I suppose, if it's lasted this long, I can use it this summer and get the Streamin back into my Dreamin.

Amazing for a 44 year old trailer.

Well, thinking about it...it reminds me of myself. Same age. Rough around the edges with a few dings. Rolls well once it's hooked up. Makes noises that can usually be identified. Doesn't leak...that I can tell.

We ain't pretty, but we get the job done!

Shout Out to the VAP

2009-05-15T13:45:00.000-05:00

Hey, if you don't listen to the VAP (Vintage Airstream Podcast) you should. There is a wealth of information about how to find a project trailer, trailer restoration, using the trailer, rallies and much, much more.

The guys that put on the show have dedicated a lot of time to this and it shows.

Now the bad news. They've announced that the 100th episode will be their last.

So here's the deal. Listen to the shows, check out the www.theVAP.com website. If you agree that this is a valuable resource as well as good entertainment give them a shout. Let them know we need them to continue helping us and motivating us to pursue the vintage trailer "life-style."

More new progress on the blog to come. Had to get the garden planted and the garage/workshop re-organized. Too bad the mosquito's are now out. Check back for updates.

What Needs To Be Done

2009-04-06T23:22:00.000-05:00

Did I mention how great the trailer handled with trucks trying to blow us off the curves in construction zones? Concrete barriers squeezing two lanes into 1.5 and still a semi needs to pass on a ramp. I really thought I might get to see my maker ahead of schedule that night.

Yep, it handled like a dream on original 40 year old axles and tires of unknown age, looking original on their split rims. No load leveling. No sway control. What a great towing trailer!

What I'd like to do in the immediate future:

1) Install better safety chains. The chains now on the trailer aren't suitable for my niece's swing set.

2) Check Brake "Break-Away" switch.

3) Look into a better hitch system. I like the Draw-tite combo with built in load leveling and sway control. Pricey though, and I need to know the weight of the completed trailer to properly match the control bars or cam set-up.

4) Test all systems. I've purposely put this off. I do have a 30a receptacle left from the previous owner. I've confirmed proper wiring/polarity of it. I'll give my dad credit for an over cautious nature which I've adopted as I've gotten older. He has always been afraid of fire due to wiring and explosions due to gas leaks. He has rarely done his own work in these areas whereas I used to dive in with reckless abandon. Now older, wiser and slower to risk life limb and home, these tasks which have the possibility of both has put this task off my list until now.

First nice day I'll park the trailer outside and test the electrical including lights, outlets, converter, AC and refrigerator. A couple large fire extinguishers will be nearby. The hot water heater and fridge are electric only from my trailer's days as a summer cottage. Both are planned for replacement as is the ancient AC system.

As for the furnace and range, I may take it to my local RV repairman. Let those who know mess with the fun stuff.

5) Plumbing. I already spotted a burst in one supply line. This may be better left for the tear down which won't happen until after the Rally in June. The good news is I spotted no rot or leakage when checking the nooks and cranny's, except for the rear trunk area which is notorious for this.

6) Replace rear vent and possibly center vent with a fantastic fan model. Not sure if I want auto temp or rain closure control. They'll be at the Madison rally. It sure is tempting to have them do the install for the reasonable prices they charge.

7) The First rally I attend I plan to grab as many veterans of the restoration wars as possible to go over my trailer. I'll take notes and listen closely to those who have gone before me. You can never learn enough. So please, if you see me at a rally, don't be afraid to offer your guidance.

Looks like I'll be staying in an aluminum tent until further notice.

What I've Done So Far

2009-04-06T22:15:00.001-05:00

I did a foolish thing. Well, I probably did more than one but this one is worth noting. I drove home on ancient tires which held air until they sat in my driveway for a few days. Cracked tires on Split rims, driving through down-town Chicago in December at midnight. Truckers don't think Airstreams driven slowly are neat or cute. They'd just as soon blow you off the road.

After storing it in my driveway for a couple months, the new place "up north" allowed us to store it inside. Here she is in her new digs looking dwarfed by the previous owner's gigantic RV. No it's not a Bounder and it's not mine. Mine's the "little" 30 footer on the right.

Second foolish move: bought new rims & tires. That way it can sit in one place, waiting to be restored on fresh tires I didn't really need to purchase until much later. I must remember, hind-sight is always 20/20. Cut yourself some slack or the hobby will turn into a J.O.B.

Don't believe the tires and rims are "ready to travel" unless you have confirmed it with someone you trust. I should have had a new set with me or at least a spare, a jack, a lug wrench, penetrating oil and some plywood for under the jack. Luckily, I didn't need them.

Helpful hint about rims. Throw out the old split rims. Few will work on them and most consider them unsafe. Balance your rims and tires. Check rims for run-out. This means check them to make sure they are "true" and don't wobble when spun. I tried 14 rims from a major manufacturer before I found 5 that were "true." Make sure they are designed for the weight of the load to be carried. All the aftermarket custom manufacturers I contacted that make chromed and painted rims designed to accept baby moon style hubcaps had rims that were not rated to carry the weight of my trailer. Check also to make sure your axles grease hub doesn't protrude so far out to prevent the use of moon hubcaps or center caps on your rims.

Helpful hints on tires: I found an off brand that was supposedly rated the same as a major brand like Goodyear Marathons at 1/2 to 2/3rds the price. After balancing the wheel/tire assemblies I found them more "out of balance" than I would have liked. They required heavier wheel weights. This may have been due to the manufacturing process. You get what you pay for. After hauling heavy equipment trailers: 12,000-20,000 lb capacity and never having balanced a rim or felt a bad tire bounce or vibrate I was surprised to find blogs mentioning the importance of balancing wheels. Some even specify balancing them on the trailer. Bottom line, do the best you can to save unnecessary vibration from affecting your trailer.

My new wheels and tires have looked great sitting on my trailer the last 2 years. Again, what a waste. I have taken the trailer out on the road enough to keep them from flat spotting. I've also been told by tire manufacturers that running a tire keeps them more pliable and flexes the sidewalls to keep the chemicals active, thereby reducing the aging process, including checking. They've also been indoors which has kept UV degradation to a minimum. The bottom line is, most people will never wear out a tire before it should be replaced due to age, which depending on who you believe, could be around 5 years.

If I did it again, I'd probably skip directly to a supplier of wheels and tires and skip the nostalgic look. Companies like: http://www.trailertiresandwheels.com/ send you the balanced wheel assemblies ready to bolt to your trailer.

Checked bearings, they'd just been repacked. Brakes work great. While towing the axle hubs, rims and tires remained cool to the touch. This is a sign they were in good shape with no unwanted friction adding heat to the parts.

The axles are not drooped but given the age, they'll be replaced during the restoration. All independent torsion rubber or "Dexter" type axles have an arm that holds the hub assembly and rotates as the inner rubber cords, inside the actual axle compress or flex. This arm is normally horizontal or pointing down at an angle away from the axle. They have different angles depending on trailer ground clearance requirements, trailer weights or in my case age. The older axles have a tendency to "sag" just like we do.

Whether from use or just sitting with weight on them, they all begin to deteriorate and sag. The rubber cords lose their flexibility and result in increased bounce and worse control going down the road. Folks have said replacing their worn axles resulted in a much smoother ride with less of their trailer's interior contents getting bounced around or bounce out of cabinets as a result. Airstream also uses a shock setup on the axles to further smooth the ride, saving wear and tear on the trailer, fewer loosened rivets and less damage to the trailer's cargo.

Going back to my days with a trailer manufacturer I found these axles were an interesting alternative to the old leaf spring design. It really does provide independent suspension to each axle. Over rough roads or job-sites this meant the tire could move more easily without affecting the tire on the other end of the axle. Keeping the tires in contact with the road and not bouncing is especially beneficial during handling or braking. I also appreciated the lower deck height especially when loading slippery asphalt rollers. Check out the step-in height of trailers equipped with these axles vs leaf springs. Fewer steps equals less climbing and safer entry & exit.

In addition to lowering the deck height of the trailer I was interested to learn how torsion axles were built. In order to shove a square axle with four rubber cords into a square tube the various assemblies are frozen in sub-zero temperatures. Once they shrink due to cold they slide right in and expand once returned to ambient temperatures. There is no adhesive or mechanical fastener used. Just good old tension. And my 44 year old trailer is proof these axles work...and last.

Here's a link for a better understanding of rubber torsion axle construction: http://dexteraxle.com/i/u/1080235/f/product_flyers/Torflex_11-06.pdf

Cleaned exterior of all salt and road grime immediately after trip. Neighbors probably got a good laugh about this as it was December in Wisconsin!

Cleaned interior with Greased Lightning. Careful with this. You need ventilation. This is nasty stuff! It isn't for use on bare aluminum as it contains acid. Try to keep it off the wood too as it may discolor the finish. But boy did it get years of accumulated cooking grease and general brown gunk off the painted interior. Prepare to get dirty! Save your rags and drop cloths, you'll need lots of them.

Replaced Solar Dome. After comparing what's available, I chose Vintage Trailer Supply. It's worth noting that many who have succumb to the Aluminitus bug have willingly let it take over their lives and livelihoods. Thank goodness for the rest of us as this is a great side-effect.

Steve Hingtgen is one of those people. From what I've learned, Steve is an exceptionally creative guy. When he doesn't find something available on the market or what he finds isn't the quality he wants, he finds a way to produce it. Over the past few years his list of items grew into the company he has now. Many of the items Steve has on his Vintage Trailer Supply website are unique and cannot be found elsewhere. Other sites may list similar products which may not equal the quality or "fit" needed for easy installation. Items that can be found elsewhere are often not as competitively priced. Steve also is a wealth of knowledge, willing to share his time and experience with those of us just getting started. If you're into old trailers, give Vintage Trailer Supply a look.

Click here to visit Vintage Trailer Supply

I'm not sure how I made it home with it still on the roof. When I took it off the trailer it crumbled in my hands. Lucky for me, it held out the water. The VAP (Vintage Airstream Podcast site-see links at right) has a nice pictorial with instructions for this. Vintage Trailer Supply has instructions also.

One thing I noticed was my vent jacks loosened during the trip. I made safety wires out of heavy coat hangers which prevents the lid cranks from turning and allowing lid to raise, preventing the lid from raising and blowing off while traveling. I'd be interested to know if others have had this problem and how they solved it.

I ordered additional parts from Vintage Trailer Supply: wiring harness to tow vehicle, exterior marker and back-up lights, door latch, Worthington aluminum propane tanks.
Chose to replace old steel tanks due to needed upgrade to ODP valves and God help me...they're aluminum that can be polished!

I know I'm repeating myself BUT I highly recommend Vintage Trailer Supply. They carry parts you can't find elsewhere as well as those you will. Nice thing is they are they have the best prices, on the web or in-store, on many of the items I've compared.

Click here to visit Vintage Trailer Supply

Aluminitus Symptom #5: Specific to Airstream "Users." Needing to always be ready to travel...no matter how much work you've got in front of you.

No Reasons, Just Excuses

2009-04-06T22:06:00.001-05:00

Do you ever find yourself trying to calculate where all your time goes and why you never seem to get enough done? If you really want something, you make time. I read about others restoring a trailer sucessfully. They have families, jobs, chores. They still manage to make it happen.

I've broken down three things I never seem to have all at the same time:
1) Time
2) Money
3) Space

While I'm now still short on time, money and space, I've probably never been in a position to have some of all three as I do now. Plus, I've seen plenty of others do more with less of each. This includes me. Time to put away the excuses and make this thing happen.

Change Happens

2009-04-06T17:45:00.000-05:00

So this time I don't nod and change the subject when my wife reads the property listings as we've done throughout our lives together. I take in to account what we've been through the past few years. She asks for so little. If I can give her something she wants I'll do it. Hopefully it will simplify our lives.

I agree to go take a look at the property she finds that must be too good to be true. Seven Acres of Pines and Oaks. 1600 square foot newer home. Well, septic, drive are all in. Two huge garage/storage buildings which everyone says is why I liked it. They're wrong. I can build garages. What I couldn't get over were the trees, the silence, the peace I felt the first time I stood on this property....in the middle of absolutely no-where! Hence the unbelievable price...compared to the Southeastern Wisconsin area.

Long story short. We find new jobs. We move ourselves, our belongings, our lives to the middle of Wisconsin and the middle of nowhere. This forces us to sell our home in the worst market we've ever seen. Call it a break-even with the deal we got on the new place.

I won't get in to how long the move took or being laid-off just as we finished. I won't give details about how making two house payments while the market, and our investment nest eggs continued to sour. It was the scariest thing I've ever been through.

Some days I wake up asking myself what the heck I did. Others I wake up, walk outside and just smile. If I can make this work, it will be the best thing I've ever done. If I can't...well I guess we can always go back to "the city." Life Happens...Change Happens.

Next Step?

2009-04-06T17:23:00.001-05:00

My plans: Build on the lot we purchased in 1998. We chose not to build immediately because we knew a job change was coming so we wanted the security of a home before my income was interrupted. This was in 1999. Loans were still difficult to qualify for. Funny how things come around. In all it was the right move.

We planned on this being our "starter home". A 3-5 year proposition at best. Then we build.

File this under Life Happens. Relatives get old, need someone, we don't look the other way.

Two relatives later, many years later, we were spent. Especially my wife. She did all of the round-the-clock care giving. We went from two incomes to one. These were taxing but life enhancing opportunities.

So now it's time to build, right? Hey, I can use the Airstream as week-end temporary housing while working on the house. Right? Honey, are you listening? You still want to build, right? I've drawn 400 renditions of house plans, surely there's one that you agree with?

Long story short, next time the wife reads an ad in the paper about a property for sale...nod respectfully and change the subject. Actually, this was a fun thing we used to do. Sort of a dream of ours. Get out of the city, get some land, plant a garden, live more simply. Yeah right.

Next: Change Happens

Now What Do I Do With It?

2009-04-06T17:08:00.000-05:00

Funny thing about Aluminitus symptom #4: Spacial assumption disorder.

Oh sure, I can fit that in the driveway...no problem.
A statement made by many optimisitc Aluminitus sufferers.

Here's an artsy photo of my driveway looking from my garage to the street. Our house is on the right. The beige stuff to the left is my neighbors house, which I can touch with my toes still on my driveway. This is going to be fun...

Looking back, I don't know where or how I thought I'd work on it there. Something about knocking down the old garage and somehow getting the city to allow me to build a monster garage replacement in my back yard. The wife was understandably dismayed about the purchase and more so about the Goliath sitting in the driveway blocking the view out her kitchen & living room windows. Blotting out the sun, so to speak.

Here she sat...waiting.

Bringing you up to date

2009-04-06T16:25:00.000-05:00

So, what have I done so far?
First: scanned the Internet for 3 years. Learned everything I could about trailers including Airstreams. What would meet my needs? What did they cost? Checked the blogs, sites, E-Bay, local ads. Finally, I've got some money.

This is when I realized my first symptoms of Aluminitus.

Definition of Aluminitus: Cannot think about anything rationally due to preoccupation with Aluminum constructed objects.

Most likely subject is the classic American Icon: the See More, Do More, Live More...Airstream Trailer.

Advanced stages include endless tracking of trailers for sale via newspapers, Internet and any available source of advertising.

Symptoms are compounded by epidemics like The New Millennium Nostalgia Fever strain. This occurred between 1998 and 2003 when people decided that traveling as they did when they were kids would be a fun thing to do. It spread at lightening speed due to lack of "cure" vaccines, i.e. not enough trailers to meet needs.

Symptoms worsen until the afflicted purchases the object of his or her obsession. In my case it was a 1965 30' Airstream Sovereign International Travel Trailer. Say that 3 times fast!

Warning: Single trailer purchases may not completely cure the affliction. Victims often find themselves unable to stop looking for an additional aluminum "fix", scanning websites or having friends or "enablers" find them for them. Additional trailers may add to the collection of person affected, thereby compounding Aluminitus infection.

Sadly, there doesn't appear to be a complete cure with most experiencing relapse. A 12 step program with sponsors is the only prevention.

Aluninitus Symptom #1: Obsessive Compulsive Aluminum Addiction. These symptoms manifested into the first of many on my way to getting "my first fix."

Finally, I found what was advertised as a "stored indoors, everything worked when stored, very straight aluminum, just a few dings, interior pretty much original, original windows, no leaks."

OK, show me the pictures. Hey, looks good. Called and asked many questions. All answered reasonably. And, its ONLY 390 miles away instead of clear across the country. And, it's listed at less than 1/2 what maniacs were bidding on them.

OK...I hit the BUY-IT-NOW button. First time ever.

Hind-sight: There must be a better way to buy something other than E-Bay. Not sure I'd do it again.

Bringing home the new toy:
After hitting the buy-it-now button December 2, 2005.
Wow, was it that long ago?

Quick: I need a brake controller! My trusty hitch installer source was tied up so I enlisted the help of a co-worker, in a snow storm. We pulled it into his garage and between dripping slush, installed a new controller in my 2000 Chevy van. This required running the spare wires back to the hitch, unlike today's vehicles that make installation a much simpler plug-and-play.

12-4-05: 4:30AM. Take off from Milwaukee, WI with my Mapquest notes in hand to pick up my trailer in Milan, OH. Simple route, right? Just head south on I94 and east on I80 to Ohio. After a slight detour, which I'll claim was due to construction, I arrived a little later than anticipated. Where did my side trip take me? All I'll say is I remember seeing signs for Canada.

I went from being the guy who can find due-north in the pitch black during a snow storm to unsuccessfully navigating through a construction zone, ending up in East-Central Michigan for...some time.

Aluminitus Symptom #2: Direction Impulse Disorder due to Aluminum Distraction.

When I finally arrived at the trailer what I found will be familiar to most who have gone this direction. The trailer was "not quite" as advertised. I won't go in to details.

Aluminitus symptom #3: Driven to Score the Fix. Subject finds themselves unable to walk away from anything that resembles anything other than a total train wreck. Can't go home empty handed. If it rolls, I'll fix the rest.

Next: Now What do I do with it?

Entry One

2009-04-06T16:02:00.000-05:00

After reading many blogs on different subjects and finding them helpful as a learning tool and motivation I thought I'd start my own. Who knows, someone else may benefit from it. And, if no-one else reads it this blog will act as my own report card of progress. Sort of a work partner to keep me going and making headway.

I'll start with the basics and history. As I see how this goes, I'll add detail to the restoration projects, if others find them helpful. Wherever I can, I'll add links to other blogs, passing along the great information I've utilized so far.

Hopefully, I'll be making my 1965 Airstream Sovereign International trailer more usable for the 2009 Madison, WI rally. More usable means: safe to tow, operational with lights and if possible, cooking and HVAC. Less than 3 months and counting. I know, nothing like waiting until the last minute. Well, sometimes life gets in the way.

So here goes. Entry number one....Now What?