It has been nearly one year since I first picked up my Apache Mesa from New Mexico.  It was a long drive and I had high expectations, since the seller insisted it was in excellent condition.  The photos that were provided gave me confidence that the trip may be worth my time. But when I arrived and saw the Mesa up close, I was a bit disappointed and almost backed out on the deal altogether. I knew I would have to make some significant repairs and upgrades to get the Mesa to an excellent state. No problem, as I have been through the process before with a 1969 Phoenix that I restored some years earlier... so, as much as I didn't want to take on a huge project... I welcomed the challenge.  So far, I have done the following:  (1) Cleaned everything thoroughly/ removed old glue, adhesives, and weather seals, (2) Replaced all weather seals, (3) Replaced living hinge on all sides, (4) Replaced all end caps with new ones, (5) Repaired all cracks using ABS mesh (most successful, but some need further attention.  I ordered new gears and chains in December but haven't had the time to make the repair yet, but hopefully I can do this in the next month or two.  I really need 3 full days to allow for unexpected delays and problems.  Below are a few photos of the living hinge repair. It didn't glide through the channel as expected, even with dry silicone.  I ended up having to pierce the hinge with a skewer so that I could get the leverage needed to pull it through the extremely tight channel. It took a lot of time, but finally, the job was done with success!  

My 1976 Apache Mesa

I'm ready to begin my Apache restoration!  Here is a list of what is needed:

* 4-new large bed rollers

* Clean, lube, and tighten small bed rollers

* 4-new sidewall seals

* Install new living hinge on all sides

* Replace small rubber bumpers on end panels (exterior)

* Replace front, left and right bed end caps

* Long crack on front bezel needs ABS repair

* Other minor and small cracks need ABS repair

* New butyl tape needs to be installed at top cover aluminum edging. Old caulk from previous owner  needs to be removed first. Also, replace screws with stainless steel screws

* Fix/pull out dent on right side of camper

* Replace front and rear window gaskets/edging

* Paint wheel rims white or find a nice hubcap

* Test, seal, and paint roof vent

* Attach 2- new "Apache" emblems  14"

* Replace or fix dinette table

* Reupholster dinette cushions

* Possibly make new curtains (the ones that came with the camper are still good but I may want to update)

* Replace original stabilizers with scissor jacks (install to frame)

* Needs new gears and chains (lift system)