April - 2017

1965 SHASTA SUPER 18

An experimental restoration for a timeless classic.

*The logo above is not affiliated nor endorsed by Shasta RV, Inc.

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WEEK THIRTY-FIVE: Bathroom Build & More Electrical

Bathroom Build Wall lifted in place. Shower pan lip hooks over the door opening which adds significant strength. Tank 'floor' complete, new toilet flange threaded in and toilet installed. Floor fastened downwards into wall framing and also fastened horizontally at the exterior wall. Light switch in place. More Electrical Holes cut in ceiling panels for recessed light fixtures. Main cabin outlets/light switches installed. Main electrical panel in place. Sound system installati

WEEK THIRTY-FOUR: Electrical Prep, Bathroom Build & Kitchen Progress

Electrical Prep Began locating fixtures in preparation for electrical install. The goal is to keep wire runs short and easily accessible from the inside so switches/outlets will be located in cabinetry. Bathroom Build Time spent debating the best way to move forward with bathroom framing. Moving forward with integrated vertical support for the toilet 'floor' (option A below). 'Floor' will consist of 1" plywood base with applied wood veneer, reminiscent of the dinette table to

WEEK THIRTY-THREE: Third Ceiling Panel, Bathroom Framing & Shellac Troubles

Another Ceiling Panel Third (and almost last!) ceiling panel installed. Bathroom and dinette construction can now begin. Bathroom & Dinette Framing Shower surround dropped in place before setting the third ceiling panel. 3/4" rigid insulation board applied to the bathroom walls in order to limit heat gain/loss in the main cabin from the recessed black water tank. Second dinette bench built using original pieces for the lower front and backrest since they were lightweight and

WEEK THIRTY-TWO: Toilet Flange Demise & More Routing

Toilet Flange The amazing Peter Flanders of Ocean Breeze RV returned later this week to help with the stubborn toilet flange I haven't been able to budge. With a large pipe wrench and the right amount of leverage, it finally dislodged. It was indeed threaded and the amount of effort it took suggests it was possibly set with a compound. Now I'll be able to install a proper flange over a new sub floor without a make-shift adapter. Wall Routing With the warm weather here (finall

WEEK THIRTY-ONE: Stove Hood, Windows & RV Consultation

Stove Hood The original stove hood was rusted, chipping paint and the screen on the sliding vent was deteriorating. A steel buffing wheel was used to remove what I could of the rust and paint, and the screen was completely replaced. I refinished it with Rust-Oleum High Heat Enamel in a simple white finish to match the upper cabinets. Windows All windows (a total of 9) need heavy cleaning due to oxidation and rust residue. Several screens are in need of replacing as well. I sp

About Me

Designer and aspiring architect. Lover of the delapidated and new interpretations. Based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

For more read my first blog post here.

Christina McMahon, M.Arch

Other places you can find me:

Extras

Vintage Trailer Talk

A frequently updated forum where members range from beginners to people who've been restoring trailers for decades. Anyone flipping a camper should be heading here for tips & info.

Mobiltec

Based in CA and having worked on vintage trailers since the 70's, Mobiltec posts video tutorials that guide reconstruction from start to finish. Straight forward, concise and a good place to begin before starting your first trailer.

Ocean Breeze RV Center

Peter Flanders of Ocean Breeze RV installed my entirely new electrical and propane systems. There aren't enough good words - Peter is someone who takes the time and really goes beyond to help you out, and was always willing to share his knowledge of trailers (new and old). When I first came in they even walked me through an older trailer they were working on with the same layout as mine. Genuinely good people with invaluable knowledge - highly recommended!

'Jennies Garage'

Jacob Dale has graced the internet with his super helpful video tutorials following the entire renovation of a 1973 Shasta 1400 travel trailer. It guides his process step by step (with necessary humor) and has saved my sanity.

Vintage Trailer Supply

Located right in lovely Montpelier, Vermont, VTS specializes in products that compliment the vintage camper aesthetic while providing modern convenience. They were my go-to for things such as exterior trim, access panels, vents and some electrical/light fixtures.

1965 Shasta Super 18 Original Ad