Question:
I recently purchased a 1964 Cardinal camping trailer. It's an interesting
looking little trailer. It has an overhang in front that makes it look
sorta like a 5th wheel, but it's not.
It's in fairly good condition for its age, but it only has power when
"hooked up" to connections. There are no 12v capabilities in the trailer at
this time, but I want to change that.
Is this a difficult upgrade? There is a small closet where the current
breaker box is located, and there's room for a large battery in there.
Besides the battery, what else do I need?
Also, the clean water holding tank is in a space where I think it's
impossible to remove without major disassembly of the trailer innerds. This
tank doesn't appear to leak, but the valve where I open it for draining is
apparently corroded or something, because the water only trickles out. Is
there anything I can do to improve this situation, short of removing and
replacing the tank?
The hand pump at the sink produces no water after many pumps on the lever.
I assume I will need to replace the hoses and connections, so that I can
obtain some sort of suction? This works on the same principle as someone
drinking from a straw, right? I need to find the places where air is
getting in and repair/replace that item? I suppose the hand pump itself
could be the problem. I'll remove it and take a closer look at it today.
I'll be making my first trip to the RV parts and accessory store today, so
any tips on what I need to be looking for/at for what I might need now and
in the future, depending on the cost/need, would be greatly appreciated.
I'm excited about this rv parts/accessory shopping trip. I think I'll leave
the credit cards at home.
All tips, suggestions and recommendations are appreciated
Answer:
Good luck with your vintage unit. First, batteries must not be vented
into your living area. This is why most batteries are mounted to the
tongue. Some units have them inside a sealed compartment, which vents
to the outside air.
Your plumbing sounds like it is in need of a major overhaul. For the
age of your unit, I recommend a new fresh water tank, new water lines,
a regular kitchen faucet, and a demand pump. A new plastic tank can
be underslung between the frame rails, if there is room. And also, if
you don't do any winter camping. It is a good alternative place to the
area where your vintage tank is located now. It can be broken out of
there to get rid of it.
