Forum Discussion

bowler1's avatar
bowler1
Explorer
Jan 14, 2019

Fiberglass Siding Cracking Near Slide Out???

Hi,
I have an Open Range 5th wheel that is less than a year old. I recently noticed that the fiberglass siding near one of my slide outs is cracking--not just at the surface / gelcoat, but the actual fiberglass itself. I have about a 2-3 inch long crack.

It has been cold here recently. I assume this has something to do with it. Any thoughts on what might cause this? Is this a common thing ?

thanks for your help

Matt
  • Veebyes's avatar
    Veebyes
    Explorer II
    Jan 14, 2019
    Flexing. It was a common problem with some builders about 10 years ago. You did not say where it is but my bet it is the bottom front corner of the slide hole. Not necessarily a damaged frame but possibly.

    The fix is to cut from the corner down to the overhang & to put an insert into that cut. This will allow flex taking the stress off of that corner area.
  • lee_worsdell's avatar
    lee_worsdell
    Explorer
    Jan 14, 2019
    Ya my rushmore had a crack on one corner of the slide out. I noticed it after the slide broke on one corner and the wife had been trying to put slide out. It went out on an angle about 2 inches . the one motor had quit
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Jan 14, 2019
    Super_Dave wrote:
    45 degree cracks from a corner of a slide is typically a frame failure.


    OR broken sidewall ...studs coming loose from lower plate

    Only way to know for sure...open it up
    Best done at FACTORY vs some dealership
  • Super_Dave's avatar
    Super_Dave
    Explorer
    Jan 14, 2019
    45 degree cracks from a corner of a slide is typically a frame failure.
  • Dick_B's avatar
    Dick_B
    Explorer
    Jan 14, 2019
    Quick; drill a 1/8 inch hole just beyond the end of the crack which will stop if from propagating; or both ends if necessary.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Jan 14, 2019
    Slide room dragging on the siding. Stress crack from a failed/failing frame component.

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