How Do I Remove a Trailer Aluminum Shell?
The aluminum shell of a trailer may need to be removed to give access to internal wall components that are in need of repair or for salvage value resale because the trailer is beyond repair. If the trailer is to be restored, the aluminum shell should be removed carefully and without damage, so that it can be reused. If the trailer is to be broken for salvage value, the removal must still be carried out with a certain level of care because the value will be reduced if the aluminum is contaminated, such as with base metal fasteners or plastic components. In either case, the removal will require a considerable amount of free space around the trailer.
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Instructions
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Use a stud finder to determine how the wiring and plumbing is routed inside the walls, if you are removing the shell for restoration. Mark the runs with painter's tape, and avoid inserting tools into those areas.
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Remove all exterior fittings from one panel at a time if removing the shell for restoration, and from the entire trailer if breaking for salvage.
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Take off the trim around windows, vent covers, frames around the generator bay and cargo bay doors, hatches to the water connections and the shore connection cord storage, scare lights, running lights and porch lights.
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Use a screwdriver to remove threaded fasteners and an electric drill to remove the heads of rivets, following the lines of internal studs, hoops and support rails.
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Using pry tools with wide blades, such as paint scrapers, ease the aluminum shell away from the substrate if removing the shell for restoration. Rock the tool back and forth and ease it between the layers, taking great care not to allow the material to fold or crease. Drag the aluminum skin away from the substrate if removing the shell for salvage, using the pry tool to free difficult areas.
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Tips & Warnings
The edges of aluminum shell panels are sharp, especially if they tear when being dragged away from the substrate. Wear protective gloves.
