Introduction
For many, the open road beckons with the promise of adventure. But for some, the real adventure lies in taking something old, forgotten, and worn, and giving it a new lease on life. This is the story of how I undertook the ambitious project of restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper, a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and a whole lot of elbow grease.
Cree Coach might not be a household name today, but back in the mid-twentieth century, they were a significant player in the burgeoning truck camper market. Known for their sturdy construction and practical designs, Cree Coach campers offered families a comfortable and affordable way to explore the country. These vintage campers represent a simpler time, a time when travel was less about luxury and more about connecting with nature and each other.
The nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten model, in particular, was a popular choice. Typically featuring a compact layout with a dinette, kitchenette, and sleeping area, these campers provided all the essentials for a memorable road trip. Imagine cruising down Route sixty-six in one of these beauties, stopping at quirky roadside attractions and sleeping under the stars. That image fueled my desire to restore one.
This article isn’t just a list of instructions; it’s a chronicle of the entire process of restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper. I’ll share the struggles I faced, the solutions I discovered, and the invaluable lessons I learned along the way. I hope that this detailed account will inspire others to embark on their own restoration adventures and help preserve these pieces of Americana for future generations. If you’re looking for information on restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper, you’ve come to the right place!
The Hunt and the Initial State
The search for the perfect project began online, scouring classifieds and online auction sites. I was specifically searching for a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten, not just any camper. I envisioned weekends spent working on the camper, reviving its former glory, and enjoying the fruits of my labor with family. After weeks of searching, a listing popped up for a camper located in a neighboring state. The pictures weren’t pretty, showcasing faded paint, rusty trim, and what looked like significant water damage. However, something about it spoke to me.
After arranging to see it in person, my initial assessment confirmed the photos’ accuracy. The exterior was rough, with layers of sun-baked paint peeling away and rust clinging to every metal surface. Stepping inside revealed an interior that had clearly seen better days. Water stains marred the walls, and a musty odor permeated the air. Mold was present in some areas, and much of the original cabinetry was warped or rotting. The structure itself felt sound, but the years had definitely taken their toll. However, the basic layout and many original features were still intact, offering a glimmer of hope.
Despite the daunting task ahead, I made the decision to purchase the camper. The price was reasonable, and I was drawn to the challenge of bringing this classic back to life. Restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper wouldn’t be easy, but I believed it was worth the effort.
The Transformation: A Journey of Rebirth
The first step was demolition and deconstruction. This involved carefully removing all the damaged and deteriorated materials, from rotted wood paneling to crumbling insulation. This was a messy process, but it was essential to expose the underlying structure and assess the extent of the damage. I took copious notes and photos throughout this process, documenting the original construction methods and identifying any unique features that I wanted to preserve. I carefully salvaged any usable parts like original hardware.
With the camper stripped down to its bare bones, I turned my attention to structural repairs. The frame showed signs of rust and corrosion, requiring extensive cleaning, welding, and reinforcement. Sections of the exterior walls had rotted due to water infiltration and required complete replacement. The roof needed significant attention to repair leaks and ensure a watertight seal. This stage involved sourcing appropriate replacement materials and employing traditional carpentry techniques to restore the camper’s structural integrity.
The exterior restoration phase was particularly satisfying. After removing the rust and smoothing out any imperfections, I applied a fresh coat of paint in a color scheme that closely matched the original factory finish. Replacing the cracked and yellowed windows brought back much needed light and further freshened the exterior. I restored the original trim and polished the metal accents, adding a touch of vintage charm. Attention to detail in this phase resulted in a visually stunning transformation, demonstrating the possibilities of restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper.
Moving to the interior, I installed new flooring and replaced the damaged wall paneling. I rebuilt the cabinetry, carefully replicating the original designs while incorporating some minor modern improvements for functionality. The upholstery was completely redone with fabrics that evoked the style of the nineteen sixties, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Finally, I addressed the mechanical and electrical systems. The plumbing was completely overhauled, replacing corroded pipes and installing new fixtures. I upgraded the electrical wiring and added modern lighting while maintaining the original aesthetic. The vintage appliances were carefully restored, bringing them back to working order. Restoring these elements meant having both the classic look and the ease of use of modern appliances.
Overcoming Hurdles on the Restoration Path
One of the biggest challenges was sourcing original parts. Many of the components used in the nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten were no longer readily available. I spent countless hours searching online forums, contacting vintage camper enthusiasts, and scouring salvage yards. When original parts were unavailable, I had to fabricate my own or modify modern replacements to fit. This required creativity, ingenuity, and a willingness to learn new skills.
Water damage was another significant obstacle. The years of leaks had caused extensive rot and mold growth, requiring careful remediation. I treated the affected areas with mold inhibitors and took steps to prevent future water intrusion by sealing all seams and openings.
Striking a balance between preserving the original design and incorporating modern upgrades was a constant consideration. I wanted to retain the camper’s vintage charm, but I also wanted to make it comfortable and functional for modern camping. I carefully considered each upgrade, ensuring that it was in keeping with the overall aesthetic and did not detract from the camper’s character.
Budget management was another key aspect of the project. Restoration projects can quickly become expensive, so I carefully tracked my expenses and made informed decisions about where to allocate my resources. I prioritized essential repairs and upgrades, and I tried to save money wherever possible by doing as much of the work myself as I could.
The time commitment involved was significant. Restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper is a labor of love that requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to invest a considerable amount of time.
The Grand Reveal: A Camper Reborn
The culmination of all the hard work was a truly rewarding moment. Seeing the camper transformed from a dilapidated shell into a fully restored vintage beauty was an incredible feeling. The before-and-after photos told a powerful story of dedication and perseverance. The renewed exterior, the cozy interior, and the working mechanical systems all testified to the successful restoration process.
The restored camper now boasts a vibrant exterior paint job, sparkling chrome accents, and gleaming windows. Inside, the handcrafted cabinetry, vintage-inspired upholstery, and period-correct lighting create a warm and inviting atmosphere. All the systems work flawlessly, making the camper ready for new adventures.
This project was more than just restoring an old camper; it was about preserving a piece of history and creating something special that I can share with my family. The satisfaction of bringing a neglected piece of history back to life is unparalleled. Restoring a nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper taught me many lessons.
To anyone considering a similar project, I offer this advice: Do your research, be prepared for challenges, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Find online communities, and reach out to other restorers to learn from their experiences. And most importantly, enjoy the process.
Now, the plan is to take this nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper on road trips, attending vintage camper rallies and creating new memories.
A Testament to Preservation
Restoring a vintage truck camper is more than just a hobby; it’s an act of preservation. These campers represent a bygone era of simpler times, and by restoring them, we can ensure that they continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. Breathing new life into this nineteen sixty-six Cree Coach ten truck camper has been an enriching experience, and I hope this journey inspires others to preserve these classic campers. The open road awaits, and this vintage camper is ready for new adventures.
