Attaching to Fiberglass

[Beltzy]

My toy hauler has the fiberglass on the outside and I am looking to add a level to the front where I can see when parking. The instructions say to screw the level on. My question is what is the best way to screw into the fiberglass to attach the level without messing up the fiberglass and not stripping the screws.. Any input is appreciated.

[Bumpyroad]

valhalla360 wrote:


Very easy to accidentally strip out the hole and sealants aren't forever.

3M stuff comes awfully close to "forever".
bumpy

[valhalla360]

Road Runners wrote:
Having built a large fiberglass sail boat I have no problem with mounting the side to side level on the front fiberglass cap with screws. Use stainless steel screws to ensure no rusting. Where the screw goes, drill a hole through the fiberglass that is just slightly smaller diameter than the screw diameter. Then, put sealant in the hole you drilled and also on the bottom side of the screw head. Don't over tighten the screw, but do make sure it is firmly holding the level against the fiberglass. When done use mineral spirits to clean up any excess sealant. Mounting it this way will ensure it will not come off and that you will have a leak proof connection.

Except on a boat, the fiberglass typically ranges from 1/4" to 2" thick depending on where.

On a trailer end cap, you might be looking at 1/8".

Very easy to accidentally strip out the hole and sealants aren't forever.

[Dakzuki]

nomad297 wrote:
Velcro

Bruce

Adhesive backed velcro doesn't like heat or UV.

There are exterior double back tapes available that people use to mount solar panels without drilling. That is some strong stuff.

[Beltzy]

I did find a level today that came with the sticky back on it, as stated above I am going to remove the sticky stuff and get some 3m tape to use... I appreciate all the inputs on this!

[ddndoug]

3M Super Strength Molding Tape. Great stuff and if you wipe both pieces down with alcohol before using you will never need to worry about it coming off.

Doug

[Lynnmor]

If you get levels with the foam backing, completely remove it. Then use 3M VHB (very high bonding) tape. Search around for small quantities, it's expensive. I would never drill holes needlessly.

[tvman44]

Good quality double stick tape, if you TH is a 5th wheel get the level that attaches to the pin box, that is what I use and like it. 🙂

[Road_Runners]

Having built a large fiberglass sail boat I have no problem with mounting the side to side level on the front fiberglass cap with screws. Use stainless steel screws to ensure no rusting. Where the screw goes, drill a hole through the fiberglass that is just slightly smaller diameter than the screw diameter. Then, put sealant in the hole you drilled and also on the bottom side of the screw head. Don't over tighten the screw, but do make sure it is firmly holding the level against the fiberglass. When done use mineral spirits to clean up any excess sealant. Mounting it this way will ensure it will not come off and that you will have a leak proof connection.

[Ron3rd]

tpi wrote:
Personally I hate holes unless absolutely necessary. I've sure seen a lot of stick on levels that stayed stuck for a long time. Can you adapt it?

X2, I use the cheap stick on levels from Wang Mart.

[Bumpyroad]

I used marine/rv goop and glued mine on. works fine, sticks to the surface. used masking tape to hold it in place while drying.
bumpy

[ugh]

Why not go with double sided tape as that is how trims, badges, etc, are attached to cars and RVs. Cant go wrong with that.

[nomad297]

Velcro

Bruce

[Halmfamily]

Use 3M Automotive tape it will not come off.

[harold1946]

3M exterior grade double backed tape.