Don't know how much interest there is in the UK for American built folding trailers, but I thought I would share some info about mine. It's a vintage 1976 Apache Mesa, built by the Vesely Company of Lapeer, Michigan.
The late-model Apaches (1972 or so on) are a "hardside" variation of the traditional tent trailer, in that their foldable sides are made from either ABS plastic or aluminum (depending on the year). The sides and top of the extendable bed ends, and the roof of the camper are made from ABS as well. Earlier versions use canvas to form the bed ends. The main box, or living area, is aluminum over a steel frame, and marine grade plywood is utilized throughout.
Apaches are quite well made, and members of another group I belong to http://www.apachepopups.net/index.php own examples ranging from the early 1960's to the mid 1980's. The Mesa will accomodate up to 6 people, and larger versions like the Ramada will accomodate up to 8.
It came equipped with a furnace, galley area with a sink and 3-burner range top, and a refrigerator. The refrigerator can be powered from propane, 12 volts from the towing vehicle, or from house current. Here's a link to my gallery on the apachepopups.net site http://www.apachepopups.net/modules.php?name=coppermine&cat=11121
Thanks for letting me go on a bit...I really like your site!
Quote: Originally posted by Aileen on 01/12/2004
Hi John & welcome to the site. Love the look of your folder. Are the windows plastic?
Hi Aileen, thanks very much. Yes, the windows are plastic. The factory used a smoke-colored tint, but on a couple of the windows I've replaced, I've used clear instead. Haven't decided which I prefer yet however.
I was intrigued by the pictures you posted and your site and went searching to see what other pictures and details I could find. I love the units and wish they were still made and available in the UK today, I had to laugh, I found an entirely new twist on the Word micro-light on the Apache site
I was intrigued by the pictures you posted and your site and went searching to see what other pictures and details I could find. I love the units and wish they were still made and available in the UK today, I had to laugh, I found an entirely new twist on the Word micro-light on the Apache site
if 7600lbs is microlite - goodness knows what a full weight one comes in at!
I think the Apache site you found pertains to a new generation/new ownership of the marque, as the original manufacturer, Vesely, is no more.
As for the term "microlite", I agree with you that it's a misnomer at 7600lbs (I did notice the Tucson model at 1850lbs or so). My vintage Mesa weighs in at around 1500lbs.
Quote: Originally posted by Rizzo on 01/12/2004
Its looks like a cross between a folding camper and folding caravan to me!
Post last edited on 01/12/2004 19:40:18
I suppose it is, although I must admit to not being totally familiar with the term caravan (sorry, haven't looked at enough examples on the site yet). I believe the definetion to be that of a regular, non-folding house type of trailer however.
If that's the case, then the vintage Apaches do incorporate the advantages of a foldable, compact package, with a hard shell that's impervious to the elements.
Quote: Originally posted by bandit-gray on 03/12/2004
Nice one Woodrock., it looks a really neat unit. It also looks to have coped with its age very well. they are obviously a well made unit.
Does it have an option to add a canvas awning to it?
Yes, there is a u-shaped channel in the aluminum molding above the door. I don't have an awning (yet), but the factory supplied canvas awnings as well as fully enclosed screen rooms.
The original units are now as scarce as hens teeth, so I'll probably go for an aftermarket replacement of some sort. The channel looks to be more or less universal, so fit should not be a problem.
Gray - are you still using the hotmail addy? I tried to email you on return from chesshire but the email was returned. Please post if you see this as we ( us , hound of the baskervilles , and megawoman have all booked one holiday if you care to join us.
Yes we went to the Masham bonfire meet. The punto did well. Could use a bit more umph but for now its fine. I dont' know how much stuff you take and how heavy your van is but the weight ratio is good on our outfit and you can tell on the motorway. Its just like pulling our combi camp only the caravan restricts your veiw. There was no sway or anything. The van sat firm behind us.
Floydfan was impressed as we even went past him. (The traffic held him back)
Having looked back through the Search Facility there has been no Apache activity for a good number of years, not that there was a lot of threads with that in the title anyway.
You could be in luck, fingers crossed for you.
------------- XVI yes?
As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Apache Folding Trailer
via mobile 02/10/2023 at 7:47pm
