Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

Lou P · Joined: 29 Nov 2012 Posts: 4 Location: Ireland

Hello to everyone -

I found this forum when searching for info on my caravan.
I am not sure what model it is - my guess is Abi Monza 1969?

I've owned it for 10 years but unfortunately for the past 4 years it was parked up and not used - over which time it has sprung a leak and badly needs restoration.

Not having tackled a job like this before I am seeking general advice as to how. I am relatively good with my hands and have basic carpentry skills.

The leak seems to along the trim above the front window.
I've taken away the rotten timbers of the frame - which is basically most of the front, and along the side of the door.
Meanwhile I've covered the outside with tarpaulin.
I'm guessing the timber frame needs to be replaced before I remove and reseal the trim?

Any advice at all on how to tackle this would be greatly appreciated.

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Knowsley · Joined: 13 Sep 2010 Posts: 158 Location: uk

ABI introduced the Monza range to complete with Sprite in 1972/1973. The lower panels of your monza have been repainted at some point in it's life and should look like this model

http://cutecaravans.blogspot.co.uk/2010/09/meet-millie-pre-op.html

Good luck with the restoration

david
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Remember - Practice makes perfect!

Lou P · Joined: 29 Nov 2012 Posts: 4 Location: Ireland

Thank you both very much for your replies.
The caravan has indeed been painted (red) and shows a rose type colour beneath.

Inside the timber is so rotten that it came away without removing the screws or panel pins from the exterior, which are still in situ.

When I remove, clean and reseal the trim first (very helpful advice thanks) it must need a length of timber to be screwed back into on the inside - so I could replace this piece first, replacing the rest of the frame afterwards? Also could you guide me as to what type of panel pins and screws I might need? I read that the old sealant can be cleaned off with a meths type alcohol and that the best sealant is 'Sikaflex'. The rubber seal around the window looks ok so I won't meddle with that.

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Lou P · Joined: 29 Nov 2012 Posts: 4 Location: Ireland

wilson294 - thank you - that is all incredibly helpful!
I shall no doubt be back with more questions in the fullness of time.

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Lou P · Joined: 29 Nov 2012 Posts: 4 Location: Ireland

Certainly I shall post photos of the job in hand and intend to tackle it next dry day (er -might be some time). I've ordered sealant as can't find it locally. There are lots of wee problems - like none of the gas appliances work anymore - smashed indicator which might be hard to source/replace - but one step at a time I reckon. All the little tips make a big difference esp. because I could do damage while dismantling it! Experience really counts.