by RBB » Mon Sep 18, 2023 4:26 pm
[quote="OcoeeG" Any input of do's and don'ts of pop-up frame reuse are more than welcome. She doesn't have to be too light as I will be towing with a Tacoma, but the lighter the better in my opinion.[/quote]
I just started my build on an old (1971) Skamper Pop Up frame. I was initially surprised how... flimsy it was. I spent a few days sanding, grinding, and sandblasting the frame then painted it with POR15. Looks like new!
With my particular frame, I noticed the axel is a non-standard width (at least compared to the parts readily available today) and the original tires were on the small side. I ended up replacing the bearings, bushings on the springs, and found some newer tires with the same 4x4 bolt pattern. I still need to replace the safety chains and front leveling jack.
From my research, the original frame was designed for about 1250lbs curb weight... but it could sleep 8 adults... so... we will see how strong it is!
If you can find a pop up with working heater, ac, fridge, etc... but "water damage" or ripped canvas, it could be a VERY good way to acquire some of this equipment and have a donor frame for a new build!
Depending on the model, the lift arms and mechanics may be worth a little on EBAY, could help finance the project. Other parts that may be worth listing on Market place would be the doors, support arms for slide outs, or other "easily removeable, easily lost" parts.