Roz exposed

We spent a little more time with Rozwell, the 1949 Curtis Wright that has been with us for a few weeks now. The plan for her new self is to begin with a new light weight, but well designed frame. It should resemble the original frame from the outside, but provide more support for a modern axle and brakes, as well as modern convenience systems such as septic tanks and a 2010 electrical system.

She looks a bit weird stripped off her skirt and panties…fortunately, it’s a temporary situation.

The lower section of this Curtis Wright somewhat resembles the skin wrapping into the belly of a 1965 to 1968 Airstream. I wonder why….Hi Wally!

So, with the lower skin sections removed, she stands on her ribs on aluminum outriggers. The entire shell is now ready to come off, and be transferred to a new frame and floor. With these lower skin sections out of the way, it should be very easy to adapt this 60 year old shell to her new underpinnings.

The plan call for a 3000lb torsion axle, with hydraulic disc brakes. The frame will be a conventional 4in c-channel frame with cross members and outriggers. Provisions will be made for holding tanks fo 40gal+ fresh, 26gal grey, and 20gal black capacity. With all holding tanks tucked into the belly, much needed interior space is freed up for a nice and cozy interior. Initially, the plan includes a wrap around desk/command center in the rear end of Roz, a street side wet bath, and a front build that has a good vibe for visiting and a comfortable bed for two. The appliances for Roz were selected for light weight, simplicity and low impact on environment and fuel use. A Hydro Flame direct vent forced air furnace will heat the interior and also the holding tanks when necessary. The galley will include a Norcold N412 Refrigerator, as well as Spinflo 2-burner cook top. The sink will also be a Spinflo unit, called their kitchen centre. A Dometic microwave will add convenience when 120V hookups are present. Due to space constraints, this galley will not have a propane fueled oven. But, we’re putting the cart before the horse….first we need to get her ready to carry all that stuff…

The door off, lower skins removed

The inner front skins were left in place, to stabilize the shell. This happens to be the rear of Roz. Hard to tell at times. I have to look for the hitch coupler to be sure…

There she is, at Area 63’s prime work spot. Foreground shows the removed lower segments.

Unfortunately, some of this metal is beyond restoration and will have to be replaced. Roz must have seen some adventurous mods in her 60 years of life. The metal tells the tales.

This concludes this week’s work on Roz, the 1949 Curtis Wright. The next post will hopefully show her new frame and floor. As always….stay tuned if you’re aluminum junkies, like we are.

Today’s temps: mid 50’s, light rain all day.

Today’s tunes: Rage Against The Machine, Coldplay, then AM weather radio.