Posted 2010-05-06 5:37 PM (#119826) Subject: Aluminum floor - is this floor OK?
Veteran
Posts: 213
Location: Virginia
I tried to post the pictures, but it would not let me - so maybe Retento can work his magic and get them posted here.
Anyhow, I posted several pictures of my trailer floor on my blog (bottom of May 6 entry) - what do you look for? Does this floor look OK? The gentleman I bought it from said that he cleaned it out everytime he used it. The trailer is a 1992 4Star - still has original mats. If this floor looks OK would you recommend putting WERM on a floor that old (after proper preparation) or should I just get new mats?
Posted 2010-05-06 7:19 PM (#119828 - in reply to #119826) Subject: RE: Aluminum floor - is this floor OK?
Expert
Posts: 2615
Dang,that's a 1992 floor??
I certainly would not replace that floor or put down WERM.I might do Gard's special flooring treatment with Duplicoat over it to keep from ever having to pull those gigantic mats again (we have a 2000 4Star 4H very similar probably) but other than that,this floor looks pristine compared to some that I've seen that are newer than this.
Posted 2010-05-06 9:58 PM (#119832 - in reply to #119826) Subject: RE: Aluminum floor - is this floor OK?
Expert
Posts: 5870
Location: western PA
The flooring is in excellent condition. The seller certainly did not exaggerate about his routine maintenance. It has been well cared for and certainly proves the longevity of aluminum construction.
It's difficult to see if there are many small brown spots on the metal's surface, or if it's dirt or just the computer's resolution. If there are spots, and upon close inspection, are found to actually be small indentations filled with a discoloured powder, you should consider acid washing the floor. It will stop any damage before it begins, and help ensure another eighteen years of service.
If you are satisfied with the mats, I would stick with them. There recently have been some postings about the Werm products. There seem to be as many owners dissatisfied with the product, as there are favourable reviews. The sheet flooring on older 4 Stars can flex a bit, and may not be an ideal candidate for the Werm. Perhaps Richard Smith @ Select Trailers could enlighten us on that topic.
I would acid wash the floor, rinse and let dry. This would be adviseable regardless if you plan on reusing the mats or installing the Werm
The flooring is excellent, and if the rest of the trailer has a comparable condition, you will have many years of future ownership to enjoy.
Posted 2010-05-07 7:45 AM (#119835 - in reply to #119826) Subject: RE: Aluminum floor - is this floor OK?
Veteran
Posts: 213
Location: Virginia
Thanks for the feedback. The seller took pride in his maintenance - his property was quite tidy as well, which I always look at when I am purchasing something. It is a real good indicator of the condition/maintenance of the item you are looking to purchase.
I had to laugh when he told me that I could get another 10 years on the original 18 yr old tires!! They did no show any signs of dry rot, but I sure was glad to get it home without any problems. I found it to be interesting that the mfg actually called for 'C' tires. It is now sporting 5 new 'D' rated trailer tires.
Posted 2010-05-07 2:20 PM (#119867 - in reply to #119826) Subject: RE: Aluminum floor - is this floor OK?
Veteran
Posts: 229
pinkmouse, exterior pictures please. We need to see your good purchase! I just love looking at the 4Star's, expecially the older ones. And, it's always so nice to here when somebody gets a great trailer at a good buy.
Posted 2010-05-07 7:32 PM (#119886 - in reply to #119826) Subject: RE: Aluminum floor - is this floor OK?
Veteran
Posts: 213
Location: Virginia
I LOVE this trailer - I've been on the road with it nearly everyday this week. Tomorrow I go to my first competition with it!! I will post pictures of it as soon as I slow down!
If an 18yr old trailer can make me this happy, I can't imagine what a brand new one will do!