Day 728, August 1, 2012

August 2, 2010

So, I noticed a I got off on my numbers a while back and had to go back and correct the "Day" count, but it will be two years tomorrow that I purchased the Traveleze.  A lot has happened in two years and the Traveleze has definitely been transformed and hopefully preserved for another 60 years.  I was so naive to think I could fix the trailer and that it could be restored for around $13,000.  The time and expense are always more than expected.  It is just like restoring a car, you have to be willing to give the time and financial resources and it's always cheaper to buy a project already done.

August 1, 2012

Looking back over the process of restoring the Traveleze, it really should have been salvaged for parts and crushed up into a landfill.  But, even though it took longer than expected and cost three times more than expected, I can't imagine having crushed up this little trailer.  While little remains that is original, the spirit and design are intact.  The experience of a 1950 trailer have been retained and to walk into the trailer is a flash back in time.  I did opt for some upgrades that increased the "luxury factor" like wood blinds and a stainless steal back splash, but these two items were available in the 50's and easily could have been in a trailer.  The marmoleum flooring was matched almost perfectly and the cabinets were rebuilt nearly to the original.  Light fixtures, windows, the screen door, sink, hinges, roof vent, hardware, trailer frame and dinette cushions were all saved.  Everything else has been replaced with new, matching what was originally there.  New framing, cabinetry, aluminum skin, wiring, gas tanks, stove, refrigerator, counter tops, table, AC (hidden), water system and water heater are all new.

The finishing touches on the outside were the white wall tires, new wheels with center caps (that would fit over the axle) and the three green strips to match what was discovered under years of paint.  A new awning was made to fit in the original awning rail and new metal step was installed.  We also returned the tail lights and license plate holder to period correct.

The Traveleze has been reborn and I hope will be around for generations to come.