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Cobra21's avatar
Cobra21
Explorer
Aug 12, 2020

Delamination Class A or Class C?

I have been looking at used Motorhomes on line and in person.
I have always liked the Class C, but correct me if I'm wrong.
I see lots of Class C's with Delamination, but I don't seem to find Class A's with this problem. Am I missing something? It's not just the upper bunk, but anywhere and everywhere on C's. Your feedback and experience please.
Thanks, Brian
  • if you have a Class C, with standard "construction", the front overhang either is leaking, has leaked, or will leak.
    bumpy
  • I have never read anything that would imply that Class C have greater delam issues than Class A's ... where are you getting your info from? Overhand windows do have an issue ... but you seem to be aware of that.
  • IMHO, most delamination issues are from a lack of good maintenance, A or C-class. Behind the cab, overhead bunk, if there is one on your C, the basic wall and roof construction is the same for each manufacturer. Yes there can be defective materials in any unit, but if EVERYTHING is properly maintained, there shouldn't be any issues. The cab overhead on a C-class does take extra work, because of the potential for more movement and the lack of vertical support. Roof, sides (probably with windows, front maybe another windows and the underside.

    Ken
  • Both can have delamination. If you find one with delam keep looking. Nice ones without delam are out there, you just have to look. Preferably find one that has been kept under a cover or indoors it while life!
  • Beverley&Ken wrote:
    IMHO, most delamination issues are from a lack of good maintenance, A or C-class.

    I will disagree ! Delamination is caused by water, typically from the roof or around the windows) getting behind the fiberglass skin or soaking into the plywood sheathing (on aluminum sides RV).

    I don't believe that an owner should have to apply layer after layer of expensive caulks/sealants for a rig to stay water tight IF IT IS DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED CORRECTLY !

    The typical EPDM roof fails around hole that come through the roof. At best, it has a life expectancy of 10 years (yes, you can get more if you regularly wash it and apply UV protectant or store under a roof).

    TPO, especially commercial grade TPO, is more durable. Mounting things on the roof (A/C, vents. antennas, etc.) should be done on top of curbs made with pre-molded TPO corners and plastic welded to the rest of the roof.
  • dodge guy wrote:
    Both can have delamination. If you find one with delam keep looking. Nice ones without delam are out there, you just have to look.

    Delam can be fixed, but it is not cheap.

    Besides fixing the delam, you have to find and fix what caused it !
  • I wouldn't touch any class with delamination.

    Water intrusion is always the culprit and over time will turn any class....classless.

    Whatever you decide to get, inspect the roof and cracked caulking.
  • x2 by a fiberglass body unit . less chance of a leak. sooner or later the others will leak.
  • ksg5000 wrote:
    I have never read anything that would imply that Class C have greater delam issues than Class A's ... where are you getting your info from? Overhand windows do have an issue ... but you seem to be aware of that.


    All are pictures on craigs list or pictures on rv trader. You can see it on the bodies of the Cs, I've seen none on any class A's. I already own a C with delam and am looking for an upgrade. Class A's have moved up a few notches on my list from what I have been seeing.
    Brian

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