Larry and Diane Enterline, a dynamic duo of DIY enthusiasts deeply immersed in the world of Vintage Camper Trailers. Their journey began “years ago” at their first Vintage Camper Trailer Show in Irvine, CA. With a passion for restoring classic cars already in their blood, they were eager to explore the vintage trailer hobby. It didn’t take long for them to fall in love with these old beauties.
Their quest for their own vintage camper led them to scour their neighborhood until they found an Airstream in poor condition, generously given to them by its previous owners. Despite its state, their dedication turned this neglected Airstream into a cherished camping companion, sparking a passion that soon led them to restore another Airstream.
The Enterlines’ affinity for “Bread Box” style trailers like Vagabond, Westcraft, and Spartans led them to acquire a Westwood Coronado from a friend who had planned its restoration but had not made progress for years. This trailer was a daunting project with extensive damage—bashed-in back, no glass, water and rat damage, and signs of attempted break-ins. Undeterred, Larry and Diane embarked on a thorough restoration journey, from replacing the subflooring and rewiring to installing new Marmoleum flooring and even refurbishing the damaged door.
To make the Westwood Coronado suitable for travel, they added essential amenities like a gray water tank, a 30-gallon fresh water tank, batteries, and even a concealed toilet within a cabinet. They meticulously restored original features such as the stove and fridge, alongside personalizing the trailer with modifications like Corian countertops and a stylish stainless steel backsplash.
Their meticulous attention to detail extended to every aspect of the trailer, from sandblasting and tinting the window frames to crafting mahogany cabinets and birch-paneled walls. Despite initial reservations about the color scheme—chosen to match Diane’s plum fabric stash—they eventually embraced a plum and cream exterior.
For Larry and Diane, restoring vintage trailers goes beyond a hobby; it’s a passion that has introduced them to a community of fellow enthusiasts at rallies and events. Their dedication to preserving the 1947 Westwood Coronado showcases their commitment to maintaining its 1940s charm while adapting it for modern living.
In their own words, Larry and Diane Enterline embody the spirit of Vintage Camper Trailers, where craftsmanship meets nostalgia, and every restoration project becomes a labor of love.
This article was originally published in issue 19 of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine in 2015.
