Forum Discussion

jrobert01's avatar
jrobert01
Explorer
Sep 05, 2015

delamination

I have a 2008 Dutchmen express that i keep under carport when not in use.Went out the other day and seen some side delamination so i started to hunt for a leak and did not find one .I just re done the calking a couple months ago.I will make a long story short i opened the side up to find the leak and fix the damage there in no sign of water intrusion the spot that delaminated showed no sign of moisture the screws are not rusty no sign.I guess all know it is solid side.My question is not how to fix it but how did this happen so i can prevent it from happening again.I have ordered the special formulated glue to fix it with and have everything ready to clamp it.So if anyone can give me any tips i would really appreciate it.And what caused it if it is something i did wrong.I want to thank everyone in advance for the help i really love this forum.Side is fiberglass.Thanks
Class C
  • GMandJM's avatar
    GMandJM
    Explorer
    Sep 05, 2015
    Manufacturer defect/glue failure would be my guess. But that's all it is: A guess.
  • Earl_E's avatar
    Earl_E
    Explorer
    Sep 06, 2015
    GMandJM wrote:
    Manufacturer defect/glue failure would be my guess. But that's all it is: A guess.


    x2 Not all delam is caused by water. Many back around the time of your rig was caused by poor manufacturing techniques. I had a 2007 Trail Sport that had majar delam problems--all caused by poor gluing techniques. Forturnately it was under warranty so got them fixed. Can't help you on what to do now.
  • jrobert01's avatar
    jrobert01
    Explorer
    Sep 06, 2015
    What i thought.Thanks for the reply.will start glueing tomorrow if i get the glue .Will let you know how it goes.Thanks again
  • Mich_F's avatar
    Mich_F
    Explorer
    Sep 07, 2015
    No idea where your delamination is, but on a Class C you can get non leak related delamination where the cabover meets the rest of the house as a result of flexing in that area.
  • mlts22's avatar
    mlts22
    Explorer
    Sep 08, 2015
    An alternative would be to hit a boat or Corvette shop, which have good fiberglass expertise. Won't be cheap, but they can get the job done.
  • jrobert01's avatar
    jrobert01
    Explorer
    Sep 18, 2015
    Sorry it took me so long to tell what happened.I got the glue it dries in 20 minutes once it is mixed so i took a syringe and put it in the side one area at a time and clamped as soon as i had the glue in and it did better than i had expected cant tell it was ever delaminated. Glue is expensive but not compared to body shop.I am so satisfied.Thanks for all the answers.:B

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