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et2's avatar
et2
Explorer
Jun 15, 2014

Painting under MH

I'm considering painting under the MH to prevent rust ( and fix what rust is there). So for those who have done this, what support have you used after the MH is raised to prevent it from coming back down while under it.? I have two jack stands but probably not that heavy duty. So if the MH is 28k to 29k I'd need 4 jack stands capable of 7000 - 8000 lbs? Or 6 at 5000? What do you do? Location should be along the chassis frame?

I'm assuming you use the hydraulic jacks on the MH to raise it ? I really dread doing this painting, but it needs to be done. I haven't inquired into having someone else do it, but I'm sure it won't be cheap. Camping world in Belleville MI. has a body that will do it, I guess I can get a estimate from them first.
  • Here is a link to a place that sells products for rust coatings/conversions/treatments, etc for chassis. Eastwoods
    Some of the products can be applied right over the rust and they will convert it and seal it to help prevent more rust. Just find the product that you thinks will work out the best.
    As far as jacking the motor home up, I personally would only do one end at a time to improve stability. I would not try to get the whole coach up in the air. Use your leveling jacks to get one end up as much as possible and then put two heavy duty jack stands underneath the frame for safety. 12 ton jack stands
    Remember the jack stands have to be on a surface that can support the weight. Gravel, dirt, grass, sand and most asphalt will not. Concrete is the best choice to support the weight on the jack stands.
  • In general I would say it's not necessary unless you travel the roads when salt is being tossed.
    Having said that, a friend just sent pix of the Journey 32T he completely painted underneath, but that is because they spend 2weeks a month all year within 30' of the surf line, and the salt gets everywhere. So for him it makes sense.
  • I have really never heard of anyone doing this. For me it's a wire brush a can of black spray paint. Raise up the hydraulic jacks, get on my back, crawl around, and go over small area's that might need it. It's not a full scale thing.