In a daring and ambitious project, two friends, Amos and the narrator, set out to renovate a 1973 GMC motorhome they purchased near Chicago. With the RV being 50 years old and winter swiftly approaching, they had a tight window of just 50 days to transform this vintage vehicle into a functional and comfortable living space.
Upon acquiring the RV, Amos and the narrator quickly realized the chassis was in decent shape, but the engine had its issues, and the interior was in dire need of attention. The first task was to clear out the old and outdated interior, including ripping up the cheap carpet to prepare for a new hardwood floor. However, with frigid Wisconsin temperatures hovering around 15°F, they faced challenges getting surfaces primed for paint, as the paint was literally freezing on the walls at times.
To combat the cold, the duo had to get creative, employing various methods to maintain warmth and continue their renovation work, which included removing the refrigerator and starting on the subfloor with plywood sheets. After meticulous measuring, cutting, and installation, they laid down waterproof flooring that would add a modern touch to the interior.
Modernizing the Kitchen
Moving into the kitchen, the old countertop was removed, making way for a more contemporary solid surface. Using epoxy to piece together the countertop and installing a new sink and faucet, they faced the unexpected challenge of rotten wood in the back wall that required replacement.
Despite setbacks that included discovering neglected materials from the '70s and realizing the need to modify layouts, the duo continued pressing forward. They installed a new fridge, adding support and structure while making adjustments to enhance the overall appearance and functionality of the kitchen.
Midway through the project, the friends encountered an unexpected hurdle when the RV refused to start. After diagnosing the issue, they replaced the battery and discovered that the starter was faulty, requiring a careful replacement. With each step, they ensured the engine was running smoothly again, but a slight leak and neglected components on the roof brought additional challenges as they worked on waterproofing and ventilation systems to ensure the RV was road-ready.
As they worked through various installations, they began to notice the need for updates on electronics, from repairing gauges to installing new heating systems to make their journey more comfortable once they hit the road. A local expert helped them rebuild the carburetor, which was crucial in getting the engine running optimally.
Final Touches and Departure
As the 50-day deadline loomed closer, the duo focused on finishing touches. This included installing electric blinds, fixing wiring issues, and ensuring all appliances were functioning correctly. Every corner of the RV received attention—be it aesthetic updates like subway tile backsplashes or practical tasks of securing the interior.
On the final day, they cleaned up the wiring mess, polished the interior, and reinstalled essential furnishings. With everything secured, they stocked up on healthy food and prepped their bicycles for a 2,000-mile road trip to Florida, aiming to escape the cold and enjoy their renovated space.
Looking Ahead
Though the immediate renovation timeline had come to an end, they acknowledged there were ongoing adjustments and optimizations that would still need to happen during their travels. This thrilling adventure showcases not just the transformation of a vintage RV but also the resilience, creativity, and camaraderie that flourished between two friends as they navigated the complexities of renovation.
As they prepared to take Walter, the RV, on the road to their next adventure, the anticipation of new experiences ahead awaited them. The project was more than just a renovation; it was a journey fraught with learning, bonding, and the thrill of reviving a piece of history.
Part 1/8:
Renovating a 50-Year-Old RV in 50 Days
In a daring and ambitious project, two friends, Amos and the narrator, set out to renovate a 1973 GMC motorhome they purchased near Chicago. With the RV being 50 years old and winter swiftly approaching, they had a tight window of just 50 days to transform this vintage vehicle into a functional and comfortable living space.
From Neglect to Renewal
Part 2/8:
Upon acquiring the RV, Amos and the narrator quickly realized the chassis was in decent shape, but the engine had its issues, and the interior was in dire need of attention. The first task was to clear out the old and outdated interior, including ripping up the cheap carpet to prepare for a new hardwood floor. However, with frigid Wisconsin temperatures hovering around 15°F, they faced challenges getting surfaces primed for paint, as the paint was literally freezing on the walls at times.
Part 3/8:
To combat the cold, the duo had to get creative, employing various methods to maintain warmth and continue their renovation work, which included removing the refrigerator and starting on the subfloor with plywood sheets. After meticulous measuring, cutting, and installation, they laid down waterproof flooring that would add a modern touch to the interior.
Modernizing the Kitchen
Moving into the kitchen, the old countertop was removed, making way for a more contemporary solid surface. Using epoxy to piece together the countertop and installing a new sink and faucet, they faced the unexpected challenge of rotten wood in the back wall that required replacement.
Part 4/8:
Despite setbacks that included discovering neglected materials from the '70s and realizing the need to modify layouts, the duo continued pressing forward. They installed a new fridge, adding support and structure while making adjustments to enhance the overall appearance and functionality of the kitchen.
Tackling the Engine and Electronics
Part 5/8:
Midway through the project, the friends encountered an unexpected hurdle when the RV refused to start. After diagnosing the issue, they replaced the battery and discovered that the starter was faulty, requiring a careful replacement. With each step, they ensured the engine was running smoothly again, but a slight leak and neglected components on the roof brought additional challenges as they worked on waterproofing and ventilation systems to ensure the RV was road-ready.
Part 6/8:
As they worked through various installations, they began to notice the need for updates on electronics, from repairing gauges to installing new heating systems to make their journey more comfortable once they hit the road. A local expert helped them rebuild the carburetor, which was crucial in getting the engine running optimally.
Final Touches and Departure
As the 50-day deadline loomed closer, the duo focused on finishing touches. This included installing electric blinds, fixing wiring issues, and ensuring all appliances were functioning correctly. Every corner of the RV received attention—be it aesthetic updates like subway tile backsplashes or practical tasks of securing the interior.
Part 7/8:
On the final day, they cleaned up the wiring mess, polished the interior, and reinstalled essential furnishings. With everything secured, they stocked up on healthy food and prepped their bicycles for a 2,000-mile road trip to Florida, aiming to escape the cold and enjoy their renovated space.
Looking Ahead
Though the immediate renovation timeline had come to an end, they acknowledged there were ongoing adjustments and optimizations that would still need to happen during their travels. This thrilling adventure showcases not just the transformation of a vintage RV but also the resilience, creativity, and camaraderie that flourished between two friends as they navigated the complexities of renovation.
Part 8/8:
As they prepared to take Walter, the RV, on the road to their next adventure, the anticipation of new experiences ahead awaited them. The project was more than just a renovation; it was a journey fraught with learning, bonding, and the thrill of reviving a piece of history.