Paris Chassis and Belly - SILVER LINER RESTORATIONS

1951 Silver Streak Clipper ("Paris")

Chassis and Belly

This unit, S/N 2196, was probably one of the last of the Model 7s built with aluminum joists. The previous unit we restored (which, as number 2284, was actually built after this unit) had the same pipe-frame configuration but with steel joists; and factory pictures from around 1952 show new pipe frames being constructed of steel, rather than aluminum. By the time we acquired this unit, decades of persistent leaks had caused extensive galvanic corrosion of several aluminum joists. Click to enlarge the illustrations below:

We decided to rebuild the frame in place by sistering in new steel joists and adding reinforcements, all welded to the original steel pipe. Rather than remove the old joists, which still provided some structural benefit with negligible weight, we left them in place.

We also completed the following modifications to the chassis and belly:

Reinforced the pipe frame with new steel ribs and struts and sealed the frame with a rust encapsulator

Fabricated custom yoke to accept a Curt 17500 weight distribution/anti-sway system
Installed a new propane rack, bulldog coupler hitch, electric tongue jack and safety chains

Replaced the original axle and leaf suspension with a Dexter torsion axle with shock absorbers; installed fold-out Atwood stabilizers

The original leaf suspension, with its tiny square tube axle, was shot. The Dexter torsion axle, currently used by Airstream, provides true independent suspension and the best ground clearance for boondocking.

Rebuilt the rotten wheel wells, and lined the exterior faces with aluminum

Original wheel wells on these units were made of 5/8″ plywood boxes, un-lined on the exterior face (!). While plenty strong, they were delaminating from water exposure. We rebuilt the boxes using 3/4″ plywood with 5052 aluminum lining and sealed seams.

Made improvements to the main 4-inch chassis pipe to permit storage inside and to prevent further damage

The chassis pipe was originally used for storage (it’s the perfect place to stow awning poles, fishing poles, etc.) but was missing a cover. We fabricated a new hinged cover plate and latch, and also lined the inside of the pipe with ABS tube, to make sliding items in and out easier. The bottom of the chassis pipe was worn from dragging against the ground in the past– probably a result of the trailer’s worn-out suspension. We welded a bracket and stainless steel roller on the bottom of the pipe to protect against further damage.