The Avion project has officially started! But where to begin? Well we had a few things that needed to be secured and also wrapped up before we could put the originals back inside the trailer- so that is where we started. The rivets & floor that needed some work.
Random side note update- when we went to register the Avion- the DMV told us that the year was wrong according to the serial number- so our Avion is actually a 1960 model rather than a 1961-1962.
Rivets
You probably couldn’t tell but the rivets on the ceiling and walls were loose or missing. The rivets are like little screws or nails the secure the inside aluminum frame to the outside frame. The people who had the Avion before us had removed the inside panels to double check wiring and insulation and make some repairs- so the panels were basically a bit wobbly and loose. He had to start with removing some of the screws that were temporarily added to secure the panels and in a lot of areas- he had to drill out the broken off rivets to be able to add the ones that worked. Basically, when they pulled the panels off- they broke a lot of the rivets off so those broken pieces plugged the holes.
Riveting is a fairly simple process- but you need a special tool or rivet gun. We didn’t want to purchase a gun since it really is not something you would use all the time- so my husband picked up a simple rivet tool that does the same thing with a bit more ‘manpower’ if you will.
It took him several hours over a couple of days ( and a lot of hand workouts) but all the panels are back in place and nicely secured.
Floor
Even though we will be updating the paint in areas- we decided to go ahead and get the floor pieces cut and ready to be installed. The paint is a special kind of paint that is on order- and in order to get the cabinets and original pieces like the beds, walls, etc. back in place- the floor needs to be installed.
I decided to go with a light wood for a light and airy look inside. I wanted something with a similar tone and color to the original cabinetry-which surprisingly was not the easiest to find. My husband took a cupboard door with him to the hardware store to find a good match- and this one was it.
We knew that installing the floor will be a bit of a process- each end board has to be cut to match the curves of the ends of the trailer. Not a huge deal if they aren’t perfect since they will be covered with cabinets or seating but even so, when you are kind of a perfectionist- you work to get them as close as possible.
Lights, Camera, Action
Not quite there yet- but I did order some sconces that looked to be a similar style of vintage lighting that was originally installed. Unfortunately, the folks who had the trailer previously decided to toss some of the originals like the sconces to create their vision in the trailer. The sconces were supposed to be here last week- but were lost in the mail somewhere. So waiting on the re-order to arrive. But the good news on the lighting front is that the original vintage ceiling light fixture is back in place and looking pretty.
Something to know about Avion trailers if you are considering one is that replacement parts are not as readily available as they are for Airstreams. So, in some ways- an Avion is not as easy to restore. But if you want the shell and your own look inside- they are perfect.
Side Cabinet
We also got the side cabinet installed- which is just the first piece in the whole other side of the trailer that needs to be put back together. Some of the pieces are damaged as you can – I will share how we are fixing the pieces like this in the next post.
Coming your way
Once the sconces arrive- will share another update as well as the plans we have for behind the little stove and in the bathroom. I love this cute little medicine cabinet on the wall- that mirror with the original patina is talking to me. And yes, I know- me in a snap is unusual haha. I am working on sharing more of me here as requested.
Happy Wednesday all.
franki Parde says
EXCITING trails ahead!!! franki
Marie says
Hi
We are redoing our 1979 28 foot avion. I love these trailers.
Ours has twin beds in the back and a side bathroom. Cant wait to seE more pictures of yours
Jeanne BolubasZ says
You are so pretty! Do you think about this pRoject all night. I would. Thanks for sharing.
Michele M. says
Very exciting – and your selfie is gorgeous. you seem to be turning back the hands of time. you look great, courtney. and this trailer is going to be awesome. I adore that pink stove!!!!!
Mary Anne Russo says
What a project! I can’t wait to see it finished! beautiful picture of you!
Barbara Dale says
The mirror is magical, you look like a teenager.
Cristina says
new reader from LONDON. Love Your blog, just puRchased Your 2nd Book. The book is so iNspiring, I USUALLY read it at WEEKENDS. It bring so much joy. Have A good Day Courtney.
Missy says
Thanks for taking us on your renovation journey! I know it’s going to look incredible When it’s finished! And your selfie is beautiful!🥰
Linda Hovgaard says
I would much rather restore something old than buy something new…..what a gem your avion is! And your selfie in the mirror too!