Restoring an RV requires massive amounts of time, money, space and experience. The challenge with an RV or camper particularly is that the skill set goes beyond automotive and touches on home remodeling as well. Sometimes you run into a task that you either don’t have the skills or tools to complete. This is when you should consider outsourcing to a restoration company. Below I will share where to find an RV restorer and what to consider outsourcing. I’ll also share my experience with the RV restoration near me.
Find RV Restoration Near Me…
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Working a restoration on any vehicle is a challenge. An RV, camper, or caravan restoration project is even more difficult. Costs need to be controlled, space to work is hard to find, you need automotive and home repair tools, and you need the skills to execute. While I used to feel any restoration project needed to be done by me and me only, I have since learned to outsource. When I reach out to the RV restoration near me, I don’t give them all my work, just specific things I need a professional to do.
How the RV Restoration Near Me Works
An RV restoration shop is not just a body shop or repair shop. These places can take an entire RV and completely restore it from the frame to the rooter to the tooter. Restoration is their primary business function, not just repair.
At a recreational vehicle restoration shop, they will have many different types of experts. Each will have a specialty in a discipline. This is how they become a one-stop shop for all things resto. You might have different people who do painting, fabrication, bodywork, interior remodeling, plumbing, electric work, and mechanical work. You can hire them for a complete teardown or one of the tasks you need help with.
At the RV restoration near me, you could literally tow them your RV, camper, or caravan and pick it up when it’s done. That is expensive and to be honest, what is the fun of that. I think it’s best to use these shops to do very specific jobs you need help with. Maybe a job that requires special expertise or tools that you don’t have. By outsourcing only specific jobs you control your budget and get high-quality work.
If you’re RV or trailer doesn’t run and you don’t want to tow it to a shop, you can consider getting a mobile mechanic. They can come to your vehicle’s location and still help you with the work.
Why Get Help With an RV Restoration Project?…
Working on an RV, camper, or caravan is intimidating. The sheer size of some of the vehicles alone can make it seem daunting. Sure you can get a few friends to help lift an engine or install a shower, but eventually you will run out of friends. For certain tasks, it is just easier to hire a professional restoration company.
You might hire them for specific tasks that you hate doing or don’t have the tools and skills for. So for example I am good at automotive work, but it’s the interior work I am weak on. What outsourcing does is shorten the time to completion. For example, while I work the motor and body, a pro shop is working all my upholstery and refinishing the walls and cabinets I took out.
Here are outsourcing ideas:
- Framework
- Rust removal
- Fabrication
- Powertrain mods and upgrades
- Engine or transmission rebuilds
- Suspension mods and upgrades
- Paintwork
- Electrical work and diagnostics
- Interior upgrades, refinishing, and remodeling
- plumbing work
- Technology mods and upgrades
- Carpeting
- Headlight restoration work
When you do work you aren’t qualified to repair costs you do it will take longer and potentially cost more in rework. Hiring a pro restoration shop may cost more upfront, but the job will be done right the first time.
Before You Start an Antique RV Restoration
If you have a vintage RV, camper, or caravan to restore, then you should find a restoration shop first. Ideally, before you even purchase the vehicle. The place near me will actually let me send them pictures and descriptions of the vehicle I am considering. They will help me figure out if it is worth the asking price, what a restoration may cost, and how good it might come out. You can call around and get different quotes. You may even find shops that you will hire to do just one specific ask.
When You Call Be Specific About The Type of Restoration
If you are looking to do an all-original restoration, you need to tell a shop this upfront. When you outsource your project to them they are making decisions on your behalf. You wouldn’t want USB ports installed in the floor of a 1985 Lance Travel trailer if you intended on an original resto. Or perhaps you wanted a patina look and they fully painted it to a showroom finish.
Regardless of whether you are a purist or want to add some personality and style, it’s very important to be clear about this.
Pain Points to Outsource…
Here are some tips on some of the tasks to think about getting pro help with. Not suggesting that you get help with all of it, but specific areas that may require some pro help…
Body Work
Bodywork including panel fabrication and paint. If you are dealing with rust it can be a real monster to get rid of. Pro shops do this every day and if necessary can build a brand new panel for you. Unlike doing a car resto, recreational vehicle exterior panels are huge and more difficult to work with. You may even deal with woodwork on the body and other non-typical automotive materials.
Paint can be tricky too. On an old vintage RV, you are likely going to need some paintwork. These places can do some custom paint work or bring back the original look from the production model.
Mechanical Work
Most folks who take on an automotive restoration are generally familiar with auto mechanics. Swapping out parts for new or used is generally not too bad if you have taken pictures of how the parts get installed. Where it gets more complicated is if you want to do an engine rebuild or transmission rebuild. This involves complete disassembly, inspection, cleaning, and replacing worn-out parts. If done incorrectly you could do more damage to the parts.
While a used motor or transmission saves money, in the long run, the better option is a rebuild or remanufacture. That is more reliable and will come with a guarantee. This type of work should be done by only a qualified mechanic.
Searching for Original Parts
If you got an RV that’s been sitting for a while you are likely dealing with rust and corrosion. The longer the parts sit the more likely they are to seize. Finding replacement RV, camper, and caravan parts is possible. There are RV shops and of course, RV junkyards to pull parts from. If you are dealing with an RV more than 20 years old, then finding parts is more challenging.
Outsourcing some parts and finding help is advised. A restoration shop knows what forums, junkyards, and catalogs to check to find old parts. They also have an extensive network of other restoration shops that they can call. You can use them to find the part and then just buy it from them with a markup on it.
Electric and Wiring Work
RV’s contain lots of wiring and long wiring harnesses. The longer it’s been sitting outside the more the wires have been exposed to moisture. There is a good chance mice have been eating the wires also. It is a good idea to replace all the wiring, but if you have limited experience with automotive wiring you may want to get help. Then there is the home wiring aspect, where and how are you powering the interior. An RV restoration can help or you can call them for advice. You also want to know that a pro inspected it as shoddy wiring can lead to fires.
Interior Remodeling Work
The inside of an RV is like doing a home construction. You may have to deal with a sink, toilet, shower, flooring, dining area, or bedroom. If you are completely gutting the interior it is a lot of work. I find that splitting interior work is the best option. For example, maybe I do the flooring, but let someone else do the plumbing. Things like plumbing in an RV are critical because if there is a leak, the amount of water damage you can cause is incredible.
Choosing the Best RV Restoration Shop
Finding an RV restoration that works best for you can be tricky. You can find shops that do complete tear-downs or just specific work to help you move your project along. I personally hire specialty shops for my work as it’s a better way to control my budget and get pro help.
When picking an RV restoration near me here is my process:
- Call around to different places, get quotes, and talk shop.
- Get before and after pictures of their past projects.
- Read reviews and testimonials on Yelp and Google.
- Get them to estimate how long the work will take.
- Ask about what guarantees and assurances do I have.
Maintenance Tips Post-Restoration
After completing a restoration project on your vintage trailer or RV, it’s crucial to maintain its condition. Here are some essential tips to help you keep your restored vehicle in top shape.
Regular Maintenance Practices
Regular maintenance is key to preserving the vintage feel and functionality of your vintage camper or RV. Start by checking the propane lines and electrical systems regularly. Look for any signs of wear or electrical issues that could lead to bigger problems. It’s also important to inspect the wheels and brakes to ensure safe travel.
Next, focus on the interior. Clean the carpet and upholstery to prevent dirt buildup. If you have a customized interior, treat each unique element with care, using appropriate cleaning agents. For appliances and fixtures, regular cleaning and check-ups are essential to avoid malfunctions.
The exterior of your trailer or RV also needs attention. Wash the exterior walls and roof to remove dirt and debris. Check for any broken parts or water damage, especially after harsh weather conditions. Regular waxing can protect the paint and maintain the vintage look.
Long-term Care for Restored RVs
For long-term care, it’s important to store your vintage RV or trailer properly. If possible, keep it under a cover or in a garage to protect it from the elements. This helps prevent rust and sun damage.
Regularly update your restoration plan. As parts age or new technology emerges, you might need to replace or upgrade certain components. Keep a record of all maintenance jobs done, as this information can be valuable for future repairs or if you decide to sell the vehicle.
Finally, stay informed about RV and camper maintenance tips and resources. Join online forums, follow RV blogs, or connect with local RV communities. Sharing experiences with many others who share your passion for vintage trailers can provide invaluable advice and insight.
In conclusion, maintaining a restored RV or trailer is an ongoing adventure. With regular care and attention, you can enjoy your camping trips and road adventures without worry, knowing your vintage vehicle is in great condition. Remember, the effort you put into maintenance will ensure your RV or trailer remains a cherished part of your world for years to come.
RV Restoration Near Me – Conclusion
An RV restoration project, while fun, can turn into a nightmare very quickly. There are so many vehicles there and so many things going on with the interior that you just can’t see it all up front. When you run into issues, you’ve got to let go of some ego and get some help. Sometimes spending a little money on the right jobs saves you money in the long run. That is what I have learned by leveraging the RV restoration near me.