10 Year Refresh
Well, next week marks the 10 year anniversary of our Coachmen Aurora 3480DS purchase. It has taken us to many national attractions and all across the south from Arizona to Florida. She is still in excellent shape with only 21,000 miles on her. However, the tires were overdue to be replaced and the rubber roof was showing its age.
First up was the roof. I checked with a local coach rebuilder and was advised to skip replacing the roof but rather apply Thermo-Seal. The work was done in less than 2 days, all seals restored, and a beautiful bright and durable coating that actually looks better than new. It has a Rhino Lining type texture and insulating properties that are supposed to help reduce interior temperatures in direct sunlight.
Next up was replacing all 6 tires with Hankook AH11 19.5" rubber. I passed on the balancing beads and opted for the spin balance. Nice and smooth ride. I performed all the maintenance on the engine and the generator myself.
Lastly, the Meguiars RV/boat 3 step fiberglass refresh process. The kit contained an oxidation remover, polish, and carnuba wax, 3 applicator pads, and 3 microfiber towels. Using an inexpensive 7" polisher from Harbor Freight and several hours of elbow grease I got a shine I haven't seen in several years on the front and rear caps.
After servicing the tow bar, a complete interior and exterior detailing I am optimistic I can get another 10 years out of the rig.
Total outlay for everything was less than $3500.
First up was the roof. I checked with a local coach rebuilder and was advised to skip replacing the roof but rather apply Thermo-Seal. The work was done in less than 2 days, all seals restored, and a beautiful bright and durable coating that actually looks better than new. It has a Rhino Lining type texture and insulating properties that are supposed to help reduce interior temperatures in direct sunlight.
Next up was replacing all 6 tires with Hankook AH11 19.5" rubber. I passed on the balancing beads and opted for the spin balance. Nice and smooth ride. I performed all the maintenance on the engine and the generator myself.
Lastly, the Meguiars RV/boat 3 step fiberglass refresh process. The kit contained an oxidation remover, polish, and carnuba wax, 3 applicator pads, and 3 microfiber towels. Using an inexpensive 7" polisher from Harbor Freight and several hours of elbow grease I got a shine I haven't seen in several years on the front and rear caps.
After servicing the tow bar, a complete interior and exterior detailing I am optimistic I can get another 10 years out of the rig.
Total outlay for everything was less than $3500.
