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ColoCamper's avatar
ColoCamper
Explorer
Dec 12, 2017

Cracks Developing in Fiberglass

I am looking for an answer to a perplexing issue. While preparing to wash the MH this morning (we are in southern Arizona , when I noticed about ten hairline cracks developing in the fiberglass, all at least three inches long, above the right rear taillight on the rear cap where it transitions from the back to the passenger side . I have NEVER backed into anything; nothing (to my knowledge) has ever struck that area. Admittedly, the MH is fourteen years old, but they were not there the last time I washed the MH in October. I am at a loss to explain just what has caused this?

Any comments regarding probable cause(s) and, more importantly, what can be done about them.

John


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  • Gjac's avatar
    Gjac
    Explorer III
    Dec 13, 2017
    From what you are describing it sounds like an area that has a gel ooat thicker than .020 ins. Resin expands at a much higher rate than the FG underneath and hair line cracks develop. This usually happens in the radius of caps or recessed areas where resin pools. Is this in a full body paint area? Dark paint can make this worst especially in a state like Az where temps can reach 100 plus. What year an model is your MH ? Some years use used resins that made this problem worst.
  • DutchmenSport's avatar
    DutchmenSport
    Explorer
    Dec 13, 2017
    Simple age. I traded my last Duly pickup truck for the same reason. Each side of the truck bed was one continuous fiberglass. For some reason, the fat fenders started cracking out. I attempted to get them repaired, they said, no, the entire side needed replaced, at $4000 a side, I said "No way!" I traded the truck while it still have value, and before a chunk of the fiberglass fell off, for a new one (metal sides now, so now I can watch them rust!).

    Reason for the cracking? just age.

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