We've all batted around the polish/wrap/paint issue for quite a while. I did not know the wrap would be defeated by rivets. I think you should seek a few more opinions to make sure. As to paint, I am drawn to the light, powdery, greens of Toyota and Honda with some shine/sparkle. I think those colors are in line with the original aesthetic of the coach.
Light greens also pair well with the original Avion red.
Then there's the color of the Big Bad Truck.........
D1, IMO For an initial difference of $500, I'd polish it. Actually, I plan to polish mine down the road after I get the truck more presentable. If you are gonna paint it, I'd go with an 'original' looking silver.
C11Motorhome, I'll agree that solid ply construction is stronger, simpler and easier to make water resistant. I went with the foam core method myself as it is strong enough(lasted the first 46yrs), provides insulating properties and weighs less(how much less I couldn't say). Marine ply would be the best but was way out of my budget.
1968 Avion C-11
1993 Dodge D250 LE Cummins
There is a place near you in Corona , Inland RV , that specializes in Airstreams . They have painted several . It would be worth talking to them and at least finding out their procedure . Aluminum can be tricky to paint and needs special primers . They can probably give you a price for the work to compare . Good luck .
'68 Avion C-11
'02 GMC DRW D/A flatbed
I'm thinking silver might be the best solution. More will be revealed.
D
When I use pine in my house for flooring, it is those first few months when you cringe when the dog leaves marks in it. But after a few years it starts to have an even character. While the Al may not match in year one, after 5+ years it will build up a corresponding patina and look just fine. Remember you are going to be driving this for the next 50 years! Think long term
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![[image]](http://blackdogbrewing.org/images/box.jpg)
Had much frustration getting things realigned and had to walk away and sleep on it. Funny with a fresh perspective how it comes together quick. Though I mismeasured the front window opening and will have to cut it a bit bigger.
Tomorrow if it is not pouring the floor will go in and everything squared up! The bunk needs replacing too so will tackle that soon. At least it is not rotten to the point I wont be able to make a pattern from it.
Two very important tools used so far: shop vac to suck away rot and die grinder to cut those darn clutch head screws.
When I took mine apart, the side of the wing had a 1" piece of hardwood under the floor. Sorry a pic would be better. This 1" piece of wood was flush with the bottom of the side wing. Let me draw up a pic quick.
![[image]](http://blackdogbrewing.org/images/measurement.jpg)