Bowlus Trailers - Models

Bowlus Models

This is a list of the different models of Bowlus trailers.

Bowlus Motor Chief

The Bowlus Motor Chief was presented to the press on August 10, 1935.

The Los Angeles Times wrote " In the estimation of observers, Julius Caesar was never more ambitious than is Aeroplane-Trailer Designer William Hawley Bowlus whose Road Chief (see Observer July 21) created much excitement in auto-trailer circles. Today finds Designer Bowlus about to present the "Bowlus Motor Coach" which is "a startling innovation in homes on wheels."

"Motored by a Ford V8 power unit, the streamlined duralumin body has its own 110-volt lighting plant, electric refrigeration unit, air conditioning and electric stove. Luxuries have been advanced by the installation of a shower bath or tub, toilet and lavatory facilities and running hot and cold water. Six passengers will be able to comfortably sleep in the coach proper while Bowlus emphatically states that an additional pair can rest in the crew's quarters".

Also, it is extremely lightweight (3500 lbs) for a 30 ft long vehicle.

Standard Road Chief

The vast majority of the Bowlus trailers still in existence are the Standard Road Chief. It was very expensive ($1250 in 1935 and $1385 in 1936), considering it was sold in the middle of the depression. The trailer was about twice the cost of a new V8 Ford, so in today's dollars it would be in the $50,000 - $75,000 price range.

The construction is tubular galvanized steel welded frame covered with riveted aluminum panels screwed onto the frame. The "Standard" Road Chief weighted an incredibly light 1100lbs! It is built exactly like an airplane of the period, not surprising since Hawley Bowlus was an experienced aircraft designer.

In 1936, the "Standard" was superseded by in another model, the "Mid-Kitchen," which had the stove and sink over the wheels. I believe eight to ten mid-kitchens were produced.

De Luxe Road Chief

This is the longest of the Road Chiefs with an extra 2' section. There are two in known existence. In addition to the options of the Motor Chief, the De Luxe Road Chief includes a toilet and small desk.

Special Road Chief

The "Special" Road Chief is an upgrade from the "Standard" Road Chief. It had bigger icebox capacity, a bigger water tank, a three burner stove, a radio loudspeaker and inner spring cushions.

Papoose

There are five or six Papooses still in existence. It is unbelievably low weight and fully equipped.

Trail-Ur-Boat