Bob
250 Post Member
Pictures are still on my blog: thisoldcamper.com
Posts: 375
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Post by Bob on Nov 28, 2011 15:55:45 GMT -5
I would look for another trailer if the Compact isn't big enough. The extra aluminum on the roof and sidewalls could be a challenge and you'd probably need to reposition the axle.
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Post by LittleVintageTrailer on Nov 28, 2011 17:16:55 GMT -5
I've heard of adding to the height (someone on here did that to a Compact...can't remember who though at the moment), but have never heard of adding length. I agree with Potomac on this that it would probably get pretty tricky doing that.
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Bob
250 Post Member
Pictures are still on my blog: thisoldcamper.com
Posts: 375
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Post by Bob on Nov 29, 2011 6:22:37 GMT -5
Anything is possible with enough time, money and talent. It would be a little more complicated than a frame up restoration, but if you're up to the challenge, then I say - go for it.
It's hard to find the right trailer. We have a good one, but i still do searches. I just missed a 1954 Owosso that was listed in the barter and antique section of Craigslist - not under RV's. Somebody got a really cool camper - wish it had been me!
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Hamlet
2K Post Member
Posts: 2,241
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Post by Hamlet on Nov 30, 2011 0:47:01 GMT -5
We added about 3" to the height of our little Hamlet ('59 Compact). It did require additional skin plus revising the roofline in the front of the trailer, it was back to the original roofline a foot or so behind the door. We were doing a frame-up (or off) rebuild, so the changes were really not difficult at all. I'd be reluctant to add to the length, though. I suspect that all the larger models have brakes (our Compact doesn't) and the larger ones are wider as well. I also suspect that with the extra weight in the back may require moving the axle. You would probably be better off waiting until a larger one comes along, or reconfigure the interior of the Compact to meet your needs. The basic floorplan is very versatile, and we aren't the only ones who have managed to get a potty room with a shower with some minor changes. Good luck!
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Hamlet
2K Post Member
Posts: 2,241
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Post by Hamlet on Nov 30, 2011 22:23:52 GMT -5
We understand about not wanting to have to break a bed down. We have the process down to about a minute and a half (we actually did drills!). We're "old" backpackers, so just having a good sized bed is a luxury, and we like being able to sit 4 at the table and play a game. Like I said, we loved the versatility of the Compact. We shortened the benches, turned the bed sideways (full size sheets fit perfectly), and added a cabinet with countertop on one side and a closet on the other with the extra space. The closet turned into a bathroom with hot shower. Lots of people have turned the bed sideways or just made it full time and left the table out altogether. Your idea sounds like it could work. You might want to think about getting a roll of brown craft paper and making a full size schematic to "walk around" in. We will ALL want pictures!
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