Hi Everyone,
New forum member here.
We are the proud (new) owners of a 1996 1005 Jay series pop-up camper.
My wife has always wanted a camper and we got this one from a friend. It has only been on a handful of trips in it's life time but the materials have been mouse eaten while in storage. So we have a major cosmetic refurbish project ahead of us (which we are looking forward to).
Before I get into fixing the cosmetics I want to tackle some safety/reliability concerns:
0) Insurance + registration MA
Am I going to run into any problems registering the trailer and getting issuance - does it need an independent inspection (yearly?) - do I need to install breaks (see below), or add some other safety features to comply with new laws ?
1) New tires
The info plate on the side of the camper lists the tire size - great.
5.3x12C (GVWR 2205 lb) I'm finding quite a few online places. any preferred brands or models of tires people recommend?
2) new rims (optional - paint peeling, some rust)
Not sure of the bolt pattern- listed as "12x4JA" rims. What rim size and bolt pattern should I be looking for ?
3)New wheel bearings / hubs
Assuming the bearings are 20 years old. Must replace. Not sure what parts to buy, the owners manual I've found doesn't list the replacement size or type. . I do not want a breakdown later this summer when we plan to drive it from MA to Maryland.
Does anyone have suggestions of the correct bearing part? I'm happy to replace hubs+ bearings if that is easier re-work. Anything else I should look at replacing or greasing / maintenance while I'm working under there.
4) Sway bar
From what I see it has no break system. I'm OK with this, and on a friends advise purchased a sway bar kit that I plan to install to improve safety/handeling. Any comments/ suggestions for install / driving with a sway bar?
Cosmetics ( I'll be sure to post our before and after pictures )
5) New canvas
Any suggestions for a new canvas vendor? We've found some online but would appreciate anyone's feedback on which are good quality / easy to install.
6) Paint outside
I've seen some great guides/suggestions here. We're going to do something "cool"
7) Solar
Got a 100W solar panel, charger, batteries, fuses, and 12V LED lighting so should be all set for that project. I'll be sure to share my solutions here.
8) Cabinet and interior surface rework
Again some great guides here and my wife already has a pintrest full of ideas.
Many thanks in advance.