Hello,
I have acquired a bit of an 'odd duck' and would appreciate any info someone might have in their archives... mental or otherwise. It is a 1957 'Mercury' (Ford P350) with the Aerobilt aluminum body but apparently it was 'factory' built as an RV. The raised roof, bath, propane systems, auxiliary fuel tank, interior workmanship, etc. etc. are all beyond what you would get from a home-built job. I had never seen one before and couldn't resist...

It has a 223-6 with 'three on the tree' and is in pretty good shape overall. The only clue is a metal plate that says "The Van-Wilson Equipment Company Ltd - Model SK 2212 - Date 8M 57". Some research on the net suggests that this company operated out of Ontario.

Does anyone know if the Aerobilt company ever did a factory RV?

Thanks,
Dwight
Nova Scotia

 

I don't have any info for you, but do you have any pictures of it? Sounds interesting

 

Here are a few pics...
I haven't had time to do a gallery yet or I may just build a little website for the "project". The hand-painted exterior is a tad on the ugly duckling side but I think stripping and polishing the aluminum will swan things up. As you can see... too many details suggest she was born as an RV from the basic Aerobilt body design. The interior is in VG condition and I studied it hard and do believe those colours are original as I could find no evidence of a re-do.
-Dwight

http://www.fusionstudio.com/1957rv/57Mercury_FTEa.jpg
http://www.fusionstudio.com/1957rv/57Mercury_FTEb.jpg
http://www.fusionstudio.com/1957rv/57Mercury_FTEint.jpg

 

That is so cool, Thanks for sharing

 

Cool. himmelberg

 

Dwight,

Looks like who ever did the interior knew what they were doing. Very nice truck.

 

WOW!!-- Not only cool and very rare, but in pristine condition as well.
Aerobilt was likely a specialty type coach builder much like those of the
1930's. These small firms made custom bodies for factory chassis, and
in very small or one-off numbers. The various RV clubs would love to see
this unit on tour, and I would bet someone more involved in that scene
than I am would have info. for you. One club, in particular, have very
unique / handbuilt RV's from the 30's and 40's. Will dig around for their
name and contact info. and forward to you.
You will have a lot of fun with your one-of-a-kind rig.

Robb

 

Thanks Robb,

Any help in understanding from whence it came is appreciated!
-Dwight

 

Hi Dwight:

I finally found the name of that R.V. club I mentioned previously.
They are called the "Tin Can Tourists" and look like a terrific,fun
group; about as individual as the truly unique rigs they drive.
Do a search on them as well as other r.v. groups in your area.
I am sure you would really enjoy getting to know some of these
folks and perhaps even getting together on outings or tours.
Enjoy your Aerobuilt!!

Robb


of ind

 

Can you post a picture of the cockpit ? I have a 1960 P350 that has been converted into a RV but the engine, seats, controls et cetera have been removed...it has been lived in for the last 20 years ! I am going to find a salvage title 4x4 (Diesel of course) and put it back on the road. Really nice truck you have !

 

Wow, how 50's kitch is that! great find! What is that over the dinette?

 

Just a question on the "Wilson" part of the tag. Have you checked out any information that may lead to any involvement by the "Wilson" truck body manufacturing facility that did operate out of Truro N S ? Just a thought as I live in NB and do recall the Wilson name.

 

I must say you have a great truck - good find.!

 

Wow!! very interesting. I know that alot of the older travel trailers are becoming real popular but I think you have them all beat!!

Very cool truck
Bobby

 

Very interesting. Did you notice the date on the thread? ScotiaBoy last activity: 12-02-2004 05:02 PM. I wouldn't count on a reply from him, but you never know. Good luck to you though.

hotrod48