Considering a special rebuild but want advice

Hello,

This is my first time posting. I do not yet own a hi-lo. However, I have been attempting to design a travel trailer for a very unique exterior look - a mobile Tudor style home! Completely accidentally I ran across a hi-lo ad on Craigslist. I noticed that the Hi-Lo design mimics the design of Tudor buildings (specifically the overhanging upper part of the Hi-Lo). The biggest problem I had been having in realizing my vision of a Tudor trailer had been trying to design the overhang. But, there it was all ready for me on the hi-lo!! I am very excited. The next step I took was to join this forum to learn more about the issues and benefits of buying older Hi-lo's. After reading a few posts about what to look for in identifying hi-lo issues on older models I came up with a few questions. First, I know that "canned hams" have wooden framing but that framing can be repaired if damaged (takes work, but it can be done). Are the older, wooden framed Hi-los similar to canned hams in this respect? The hi-lo I am considering is an older model. There is a VERY good chance that the trailer needs extensive reconditioning. However, as I had initially been planning to build a custom trailer completely from scratch, a bit of elbow grease to recondition a beat up hi-lo doesn't intimidate me. I just need to know if it is POSSIBLE or if hi-los get so rotted out that they are irreparable??

Second question I have is if anybody can direct me to any hi-lo owners who have tried extensive reconditioning/remodeling of hi-los and posted info or pics online?

Thank you,
Annella

special rebuild

Annella,Welcome to the forum. The manufacturer of HiLo RVs has been out of business for several years. Used newer and older trailers are still available. Some models are lighter and are called Towlites. Some models are heavier and are called Classic models. Thee last few years of production were H models. There were a combination of both models. Take some time over the winter to read back posts. I personally own a 25ft. 1990 Classic with a rear door. We have had to do extensive rebuilding of the upper walls due to water damage. The only parts specific to HiLo are the lift systempump and the lifting cables. All the other parts are common to any RV. Read this back post 11-7-2012. Restoration pictures and word descriptions. It gives the link to my Photobucket pictures of repairs. Anything that goes wrong with a HiLo can be fixed. It is a matter of time,money and materials. Our forum members are very experienced with repairs and advice. What is your tow vehicle? Where are you located?

Here is a Hi-Lo rebuild example

http://www.hilotrailerforum.com/f17/ladder-drop-down-bunk-692/