1936 Masterbilt
A Brief History:
The Masterbilt Corporation, of Los Angeles, CA, went into business building travel trailers in 1934, during the Great Depression, and it is believed remained in business only a few years through 1937. The unique body styling and window design really set the Masterbilt apart from the other trailers of the era. As was the case with many trailers of the 1930's, the Masterbilt was constructed of Masonite over plywood walls. Masterbilt offered 3 different trailer models: The "Ranger" (13ft.), the "Pioneer" (15ft.) and the "Scout" (17ft). All 3 models had similar styling and layout with the Scout being the highest end model as far as features and materials were concerned. Because of the Masonite construction there are very few Masterbilt trailers in existence today. They are a very iconic trailer and highly desirable to collectors.
This 1936 Masterbilt underwent a full renovation from the frame up. None of the original components or materials were salvageable besides the frame itself. We used the existing walls, framing and windows as templates to rebuild off of.
Exterior Features:
The trailer is roughly 19' long with the tongue. The exterior of the trailer was modified with aluminum siding and the windows were all rebuilt with aluminum exterior skin. The exterior was professionally painted using Axalta automotive base and clear with the original pattern and a very classic color scheme. A pinstripe detail has been added since the photos were taken. The trailer also comes with a brand new, custom, vintage style awning in the same color as the pinstripe detail with a scalloped, tasseled trim, reminiscent of the 1930's. We kept the original front tongue with the original front hitch crank. We did not modify the front of the trailer to hold a LP tank, as we wanted to keep the exterior looking very original. Originally, this trailer would have come with a portable pump up gasoline stove. There is a quick for a propane tank on the outside of the trailer, so that you can hook up propane to the stove now in the trailer. The axel on the trailer is original although it has been completely gone through. The trailer has the original 1936 Kelsey Hayes wire wheels. We have mounted 3" white wall Coker tires on the trailer for a very classic look. However, please be aware these are not trailer rated tires. Finally, we have mounted a heated outside shower on the drivers side exterior wall of the trailer.
Interior Features:
The interior skin and cabinetry in this trailer was built with ribbon cut Sapele Mahogany. It is absolutely beautiful! We applied 4 coats of Spar Varnish to all the panels and cabinetry, for a smooth gloss finish. The drawers on either side of the bed feature full extension, soft close hardware. The flooring is Marmoelum, and the professional upholstery is 7" thick with piping and button detailing. The vintage stove was painted in a complimentary color with automotive paint and around the stovetop burners and grates we used high temp ceramic. We used the original ice box and hardware to maintain the look and feel of the 1936 Masterbilt with new door Mahogany doors. We were able to keep the original sink and hand pump which still works on the fresh water tank. In addition we also added an 12 volt pump, a water faucet with hot & cold and a 6 gallon hot water heater. We converted the forward closet into a toilet room with a new porcelain toilet and black water tank. The closet opposite the toilet room holds a new LED TV on a slide out with a DVD player. The trailer has one original 12 volt light but the trailer comes equipped with a full Go-Power inverter self containment system and 2 AGM Trojan batteries.
This one of a kind trailer maintains the look and feel of 1936 but gives you the updated amenities of a trailer built to today's standards. It is absolutely stunning. This will surely be a show stopper at any event. The entire build was featured on GAC's show Flippin' RVs.
This personal collection trailer is being regretfully sold. Therefore we are selling it "As Is". Staging items may be available at an additional cost. The trailer will be listed locally so we retain the option to end the listing sooner prior to the reserve being met. Please email us with any additional questions!
Answers to Questions:
This trailer is not currently equipped with an A/C unit. The interior height is 6'2" at the tallest point. The rear bed measures 44" wide X 6'4" long. The front dinette makes into a bed measuring 45" X 6'4". Yes the trailer looks even better in person!! :)
