Community Forums

The Nonna · 06-13-2022, 09:33 AM

Hi,
We bought a 27" 1977 Dodge Champion class A back in the fall. We have done nothing to it except clean up the exterior some. We have tossed back and forth on selling it or keeping it. It is in pretty nice condition for its age and with a little bit of work could be a pretty cool unit.

I want to start the reno on it but not sure of some materials that were used as I had never seen them before. Mostly the ceiling material. It is some type of thick foam that looks like it may have been sprayed in. It is fine in some places but really bad in others. (like the bathroom) Does anyone know what this material is and how hard it will be to scrap off and replace with something smooth? We intend to do it in sections due to time constraints but it will all need to be done at some point. I just don't want to get started and then find out it asbestos or something equally as bad. Any help would be greatly appreciated it.

I am sure I will be on here a lot as we get into the remodel of this thing!

Argosy · 06-13-2022, 10:15 AM

Got a picture? Is it the actual ceiling or expanding foam insulation?

theroc · 06-13-2022, 12:04 PM

Welcome to the forum.

Here's another thread from a few years back posted by somebody who has one and was asking questions too:

1977 Champion Class A? 24ft multiple questions

The "Vintage RVs" sub-forum --where you posted your other thread-- probably is a better place to ask more questions as those who restore older RVs where parts and difficult to find or fabrication needs to be done, are really into the restoration of old RVs and could be of more help to you.

Hope you'll post a lot of photos as you proceed. It will be interesting to watch your progress.

The Nonna · 06-16-2022, 07:50 PM

It is the actual ceiling, and I will get a picture tomorrow for you. Thanks!

The Nonna · 06-17-2022, 02:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Argosy

Got a picture? Is it the actual ceiling or expanding foam insulation?

It is the actual ceiling. Here are some pictures for you. I pressed on it and it actually feels like some kind of coated foam so it may just peel off. I think doing the small bathroom first will be our best bet!

Argosy · 06-18-2022, 09:17 AM

Never seen anything like that in an RV. Looks like someone wanted a popcorn ceiling.

It looks like staining around the vent, I'd check it on the roof for leaks and damage before you get too far. All roof openings would be good to check and reseal. If you're debating how to proceed problems with a roof can sometimes make the decision easy.

Instead of scraping the ceiling have you thought about covering it? FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) is thin and strong, comes in a variety of surfaces and colors. It cuts with a saw, easy to drill. Comes in 4x8 sheets, you can use stamped/rolled wood trim painted in matching or contrasting colors for battens and support between them or rosette fasteners.