Thanks for all these awesome videos! I wish you were closer, I really need someone with your expertise. I noticed you said not to put galvanized next to aluminum. Why is that? Can it be done if you paint and clear coat the galvanized or if you put butyl tape between them? Thanks in advance!
@@kyleblackburn1918 putting two dissimilar metals into contact with each other causes galvanic corrosion to occur naturally. If you want to see that in action then pull your aluminum wheels off of your cast iron rotors on your car and look at the wheel side.
@@bretspencer I sold an 05 dutchman 31ft travel trailer coupe months back. Bought as a project. I've done 3 travel trailers and rebuilt/remodeled them, currently looking for number 4. It started about 20 yrs back when I bought the 1st one from a friend. That's when the learning began, had to replace the stud framing accross the back, the bathroom had visual signs of water damage. Like I told my wife, they din't rot from the outside in, rather from the inside out. If you can see water damage figure on opening up the wall. Another little note, the 2X2 wood studs that they use to make up the house framing is such a cheap, sorry wood that it is not sold to the general public. It is from a tree called 'Lodge Pole Pine', very junky wood.... I think it will rot just from higher than normal humidity ranges, lol.
@@jamesmoore3346 Our local big box home stores sell 2x2, and 2x1. It is crap wood, though, and you can never find a single straight piece anymore. The last contractor I saw who needed 2x2 was just buying good 2x4's and cutting them in half on his table saw, since they were better quality and cheaper, too.
I viewed 13 videos to find YOU.. thank you for actually teaching me everything I need to know in detail.. nobody else did, they were static noise, useless information, blah blah blah rants.. nothing to the point!! I'm so glad I found you.. thank you for the proper explanation and education on the tedious path I need to take.. I'm restoring a 1977 dodge titan.. I love everything about the ol giant but it has water damage on some of the walls and roof I need to repair, to make it beautiful again..
I've been a computer programmer for 25 yrs and have met a lot of smart people. Your craft and skill exceed anything in my world as it involves knowledge, skill art, and very few others with whom you can readily collaborate on tough challenges. I spent my summer restoring an older park model trailer thanks to you taking the time to share your methods and i justed wanted to say thank you!
Just saw your Video and you gave me and my wife a little hope and some shine shine at the end of the 🌧rainbow. We definitely have shed some tears 😭 these last few days. After five years of me going through extensive physical therapy for a traumatic brain injury I suffered from two battles I fought one on the home front as a police officer and the other while in the military. We were so excited that I had recovered enough to start traveling and we were ready to live or dream and start seeing the country. Especially like every one else. The last year of being lock down and not being able to travel was just one more reason to hit the road running and we could hardly contain ourselves when we found the RV of our dreams this past week. We had budgeted to only want to spend 15-20 for a pull behind camper but when we found this motor home that had low mileage and was super clean we just thought it was meant to be ours and though it was 25K for a 2004 Jayco Greyhawk 26SS 25 footer that had only 25,500 miles and was very clean. We thought we would come up with the extra money some how and make it work. I did get on the roof, check for leaks but in all the excitement I missed getting up in the bunkhouse to check the corners for leaks and when we got the RV home and we started getting it ready to take it camping this weekend for my birthday. We pulled off the bunk mattress and noticed it was wet underneath and than found that in the right corner of the bunkhouse we have a leak that goes along the right wall of the bunkhouse. The other side wall is okay. Just that right side, just like in your video. So you’ve given us hope that we can get this fix. I’m almost willing to drive to AZ haha. We’re thinking if we fix the bunkhouse, should we just pull the trigger, get the roof fix too and add a new one. We’re far from rich and would have to borrow some more money to fix these issues. We just can’t see us not fix it right. You might just be are savior. What’s a time line for something like this and how many days would it take. Any suggestions or help would be appreciated.
Amazing work! I am currently rebuilding the entire Class C attic space of a 1998 Winnebago Minnie. The side walls have water damage as did the entire attic bunk space walls, floor, and transom window wall. It’s been a major job thus far and the demolition phase was very time consuming. The final product will be nice. Your video certainly made me more confident about rebuilding the side structure. Thanks a million!
Dave Haag said it. .. maybe there not alot of us .. but you sure are helping us alot ! !! Thank you so much for making this video ! I will treasure it ! Your great Mechanic !
Great video. There are a bunch of amateurs posting complete hack job methods to fix this issue. I'm glad to see what it really takes to fix this issue. Love the channel, and thanks for posting.
This video has been both educational and entertaining for me. Thank you for your time and dedication to doing this great service. I now have a better idea what im getting myself into. Thank you again.
GREAT ! GREAT ! video. My husband and I bought our first camper which is a 2002 Frontier Plainsman by Peak. It is a 5th wheel that needs the corner were the bathroom is replaced. After watching this video you gave us some very great tips. I have taken the wall out (on the inside) along with part of the roof behind the bath tub, removed the bath tub and am pulling all the rotted luon so I can start the reframing. I love learning how to do new things and this is definitely going to be a challenge. I guess its not bad for a 67 year old women. Hubby will be making the framing boards as needed. GREAT instructions.
Holy Moly! Had no Idea how to repair this damage on our old mid 80's motor home. Our front bunk sides need serious work, and our RV roof is sagging bad. Had no idea how to repair this and planned on scrapping the motor home. But, after watching your videos I'm going to hold off on that and try to make some of those repairs. Id rather repair our RV and put it to a good purpose rather than junk it out.. Thanks for your Perseverance!!
Thanks for the video. My 19 year old daughter just bought a 91 Ford RV and it has a lot of delaminating side walls. This video has helped me figure out what we are in for, i.e. TEDEOUS...
My Wife and I live in our 2000 Country Coach Affinity. The charging, battery System is very complex. The system that you replaced a relay on was very informative. I love your channel and you are the most knowledgeable I have ever seen. Thanks for what you do for the RV community.
Thank you so much for the support and compliments. I really do learn something new everyday. Like today I learned how the automatic sewer hose system works on a Marathon coach.
@@AZExpert I really need a fixer. I live full time in my Class C. The one like your showing MINE received damage during Tornado a few yrs back. Now its bulging out water is still getting in. I had the entire bunk replaced 3 yrs ago so far no interior water damage is appearing. I have placed a strip of durabond and now 3 M weather proof tape trying to keep it dry as much as possible. A mobile service said They would have done the same. But it's not holding up. Im trying to find a repairman to fix it while I'm living in it. Do you have a garage or location you recommend or could you do the fix. I'm willing to drive wherever to get it done ASP. I need my home and want to keep it as long as possible.
Thank you James. You make this look a lot easier than it really is. I’m just so impressed with your capabilities that I wouldn’t use anyone but yourself for repairs that are essential to an RV. Having seen you recently replace a Winnebago roof I would never ever buy one. They look like they are held together by a wing and a prayer and the structural integrity is never considered. The figures are just out re sales and it’s thought that Winnebago has dropped by 50% I’m not surprised. I personally doubt that a company that sells rubbish will not have the customer base it’s once attracted. Thank you again and when you see a Winnebago pull up…. run 🏃
This video is a big help. My basement doors have delaminated and I was unsure how to safely separate the Filon. This is next years RV project. BTW, check the expiration dates on your adhesives.
James, Once again you've shown the correct way to repair your RV. Time and patience is the key. Great job and video my friend. Thanks again, as always! Regards, Myk
This is an awesome video .. We have the entire back of our camper sagging .. We have a guy coming to give us a quote on it .. At least now , we understand what’s going on with it
I’ve had pop-ups, trailers, class Cs and class As and without exception they’ve all been shiny turds when new. The craftsmanship is always total hackery and it’s amazing how they charge so much for them.
Been there and done that, except I used azdel in place of luan as the backing to filon. Azdel is a composite sheet product that is completely water proof, and is impervious to water exposure. It is not a laminate like luan, and will not come apart nor develop mold when exposed to water as luan does. I rebuilt the entire over-head cab portion of the coach with this material and eliminated any water issues, even though the front overhead cab of the coach has windows in the front and sides. It’s a great product, and I would like to re-skin the remaining walls of my coach to eliminate the remaining luan in my coach walls and replace it with azdel.
100% agree with you. This fella does great job reconstructing but only back to OEM spec. I wish they would determine the actual root cause where the failure happened, I feel like it’s the butyl tape that dries up and allows water in slowly. At least that is what I think happened to my class C. Also doing cab overhang rebuild 😕
Awesome job guys!! Just the video I've been looking for from you. I think it's well worth the headache and cost to get this done. At least it will protect the integrity of the rig and give you many years of life. Otherwise, most people would just get rid of it and buy a new rig. I think is just a waste of money.
WOW James.....been there - done that. The nose slowly de-laminated above the driver area. It came loose while I was driving 60 MPH and flopped back about a foot, laun particles scattering in my rear view mirror. Pulled off the highway, broke out the duct tape ( RED GREEN show technique ) and crawled home. After removing all loose material, rebuilding a window frame, I spread Liquid Nails tube adhesive and Gorilla glue to fill the gaps. It turned out satisfactorily but was TEE-DEE-OUSSS as you said. Sadly , your video was not posted yet. We all learn from each other. THANKS JwgK
Thank you for sharing. We just bought a new East to West travel Trailer with the aluminum siding. In my mind the Aluminum is just easier to deal with if there are problems down the road.
As expected another great job! you always go the extra mile :) @12:00 thats not from heat. Thats from the added filtration the stickers brought to the table. UV penetration goes deep.
I enjoyed the video for the fact that I can see and understand the inner guts of an RV, if future repairs are needed on mine. Of course, I just noticed some delamination starting and wanted to learn as much as I could about why it happens, how to fix it etc etc. Very informational, and the "Tedious Count" was great! Thanks!
I owned a 2000 minnie, and redid that bunk area twice. It was in worse shape than the one you are working on. When the side opened again, I sold it. Now I wish I had taken it to an expert to fix....might have been 20 years old, but it was made much better than todays motorhomes.
I am a big fan of Winnebago class "C" and "B" motorhomes, and really they developed the same "manufacturing" in the late 90's and nothing has changed...which is why I have an issue with "high end diesel" Winnebago motorhomes.
Great Video very educational. I am replacing the delamihnated rear sides of my RV and and soon ready to use both the 440C and 183 contact ciment from Stabond. My question is what do you use to clean your peint gun once your done using it? Thanks for your time.
Thanks for your answer concerning the spray guns, so you gust dispose of them when you are done using them. Can you use the same gun when going from 183 to 440 or do you need to use a different gun every time?
Great video - Thank you for sharing and passing on the knowledge! Being in Alaska the prices for repairs are astronomically super expensive $200 hr....
Hey, thank you for the info on looking at fixing the siding of a class C. I currently have the same problem on an RV I just bought about 2 weeks ago... I wanted to ask why you used a contact cement unlike what many other videos using epoxy..? Also are you located in Arizona???
I saw your most recent video where you installed TPO onto a discovery RV. My question was answered by watching this video. My front nose cap has a really big crack from all the rain we have received these past few weeks. I was told this had water damage and was fixed but this must be something they did not tackle. Thanks for your help. Hopefully I can get this mended and back together before June when it's too hot to be outside.
Wow that was execellent! Im suprised and glad ro see you put so much time and skill to insure that the end result is at as least as good or better than original product. And thanks for sharing.
Thank you for the detail. I'm getting ready to do a similar repair on the front corner of a Keystone Sprinter 5th wheel. I at least now feel the job is doable.
I see this a very tedious process 😂. Thanks for posting this. I have this same issue with my travel trailer. Gonna try to tackle it now that I see how it’s done!
Wow! Great video. Definitely a lot of work and you showed us how involved a job like that can be. I have some areas on my travel trailer doing the same thing but they are not that bad. I don't do well with "tedious" so I'm not messing with it. I am very mechanically inclined but I'm not inclined to take on a job like that. I really appreciate you making this video. I was contemplating trying the repair but your video convinced me otherwise. Thank you for saving me the headache and the possible complete destruction of my travel trailer.
Good work! Do you suppose it would be a similar process on the decks of the bed pop outs on a "hybrid travel trailer". Mine has some rotten wood on the deck of the front pop out due to an old roof leak. Mine is a Salem lite 19t by Forest River. So it has aluminum siding on the walls, but the pop out decks /walls seem like they are laminated. I don't think there is foam in there but I haven't torn it apart yet to find out.
You could be the first to use a glasses camera, then you could use both hands and be safer on a ladder, love the videos we are in sun city Arizona 99th and bell area
It is amazing to me that RV manufacturers use items to build an RV that cannot withstand the elements. The work you are doing is as you say "tedious". Thank you for presenting your very detailed process. I had no idea that wood was sandwiched under the fiberglass. I had an older motor home that had the corrugated fiberglass siding that had delaminated. I had no idea why until seeing your video today.
What can I substitute for Luan? Any type of underlayment that is 1/8" thick? Allrite wants $80 for a 4x8 sheet. Can I use something like what Lowe's has, 5mm revolutionary plywood? How about 1/8th inch utility panel..? I'm not too concerned with manufacture specs. My RV won't be resold. It's cheap, and I'm just looking to keep it going for a couple more years. Thanks..!!!
Thanks!! I had my overhead area rebuilt a few years back. Unfortunately, it's falling apart again! The company said it would be guaranteed for "life", but their workmanship was so poor & the employee was quite A.D.D., which added to the problem. I had to take it back several times...I really don't want to deal with them again. They forgot to reseal the windows & clearance lights, amongst other issues. But now I know how the construction under it all looks like.
Thank you sir for the great walk through. Must have been "tedious" to film edit and post. Is there a version of the glue in a "spray can" type made for smaller quick repairs?? Thanks in advance.
Hi great videos we 2008 dutchman fifth wheel While taking a look at her after the winder we noticed there was rotten wood under the front sidewalk just the first 5 inches or so should we redo the wood or clean and reseal there is no delaminating
Thank you for the great video. So does that particular RV have an entire galvenized square tubing framework in all the walls front to back or does it have any wood framework besides the paneling?
Thanks for the great videos. Could you do one to explain the where the strength in an over-cab comes from? In rebuilding one from water damage, what areas are holding up the front of the bed?
Fantastic job well done your Oscar is waiting I got tired just watching I'm interested in buying a used rv can't afford a new one I'm bracing myself for what's to come great video thanks.
Great video!!!! I'm going through the same thing on my 5th wheel. I'm at the point of installing the side panel back and been searching for the proper glue. Is there another glue that is comparable to the one you used that I can purchase?
I did a similar job on the front 5' of my fifth wheel last winter. The filon was gone when I bought it and the previous owner tried repairing it with liquid nails and bathroom wallboard. I removed all that and cut a clean edge thru the filon and luan. I then glued up a new sheet of luan followed by a sheet of filon. The seam isn't perfect but I filled it with epoxy filled with sanding dust from the filon. I also left the luan and filon long and trimmed it with a flush trim router following the front cap. I also had to rebuild the back wall. Most of it was delaminated but there was a couple spots where the original luan was still well attached. I removed as much as I could and sanded down the edges of what I couldn't remove. The repair went well otherwise and you can barely see the lumps. The back foot or so of the side is also delaminated but I ran out of time so I just squeezed some construction adhesive in as far as I could and crossed my fingers. It's still delaminated but I know the edge where it goes under the corner trim is sealed and secured. I will probably end up removing the window near the delam and trying the epoxy trick but I will use plywood and cribbing to hold it flat while it cures. Your video is excellent. I was almost hoping you would crack the filon so I could see how you fixed it. I have a small crack in my back wall that I need to fix. It is completely sealed behind following my rebuild. It just looks bad because the crack is old and dirt got into it.
This was my first time owning or doing a thing to an RV. There was some water damage under a couple windows so I ripped out the entire back panel, and the front cab over , it was really quite straight forward , it was a pain in the ass in the rotten portions because the very thin plywood had turned to something resembling paper that was glued to the foam insulation. He shows some of this, yes tedious, some of it came out in Pea size pieces. So I had to use a paint scraper to peal it off bit by bit, but the more intact plywood was easy to pry out , then so long as the insulation is fine , and if it's foam it probably is , it's just a matter of sticking a new panel up. Really with a bit of elbow grease, most anyone could do it ! So don't be afraid to do it yourself.
I am about to endure this issue on my RV I have been debating on using "FRP". FRP is used in restaurant kitchens and appears to be the same material but in my opinion...stronger than what we have on our old camper (1987) So with your help..and others..we should be on the road soon! Good luck my friend.
Second on you getting a camera that rides on your glasses, or head would be safer, and explorations would be more visual. Watching you fix a basement ac yesterday. It would have helped. I am retired commercial hvac technician. Got me thinking, how many of those old r22 units are out there, that need service. I'm on the east coast. But everything you did, was very well in my abilities. Maybe, I should see if I can find someone in need. Have all my tools, and a jug of 22! Thanks for all the info and education!
There are likely 50-100k units. They should be very simple for a real HVAC tech, it's just the installation and age means repairs can be costly. I've tried a few different camera setups, but have had too many videos ruined because I can't review the shots easily until after the work is done just to find out the audio or video was wrong...or corrupted or never recorded.
Is there any other epoxy/adhesive that I could use for a 1'x4' delamination issue? The Sta-bond 440 is only sold by the gallon and its pricey.. I also read someone using 3m 90 High Strength, thoughts?
Thanks for lesson James! My 2005 Thor has exactly the same water damage on the driver side. Ouch! I'm going to attempt a repair myself and have the time. Just curious if a different contact cement could be used instead of Stabond? I know that's the correct stuff but so expensive and just a small area to cover. Any 2nd choice cement that would work?
Great video! I’ve begun the dismantle of our rv from the inside. I’m def not gonna go this far ( because I’m scared lol) I’m also not concerned with looks I’m just repairing a leak ( hopefully😂) No experience… I’m just winging it… and documenting as I go… this should be interesting 😮
OUTSTANDING! You are RV repair wizard. Watching your videos makes me want to design a better RV. If i was building a small trailer maybe 20' long, what material should i use fiber glass over 3/8" BC plywood or fiber glass in a mold like a boat? Your thoughts?
Wondering what you decided to do? I'm trying to replace a missing piece of fiberglass same size as what he did here..but money is a problem currently. I had a body man offer to do the wall. But I wanted wider trim for my front corners
I didn't cover it much, but the exterior wall and foam are laminated then channel CNC cut out for the wires and frame, then the aluminum frame is placed and welded in the foam.....don't ask me why, that's how they do it, so a little bit of melting will happen in the foam. Thanks!
James why rvs aren't make with the same protective paper that the houses have between the siding and wood? Can this be add during repairs to protect the wood from getting damage?
On behalf of all the hands on rv owners out here...We Thank You sir for making the videos you post on this channel!!!
You are very welcome. Thank you!
dave haag, a 100 thumbs up!!
Thanks for all these awesome videos! I wish you were closer, I really need someone with your expertise.
I noticed you said not to put galvanized next to aluminum. Why is that? Can it be done if you paint and clear coat the galvanized or if you put butyl tape between them?
Thanks in advance!
@@kyleblackburn1918 putting two dissimilar metals into contact with each other causes galvanic corrosion to occur naturally. If you want to see that in action then pull your aluminum wheels off of your cast iron rotors on your car and look at the wheel side.
Wow!!! I have this happening on my Eldorado... but on the lower half...it looks sad 😢
You did a awesome job!
That was the most beautiful worm can opening I've ever seen. Thanks for sharing your craftsmanship and expertise with us guys.
I think someone could watch all your videos and praticly become a pro RV repair tech. Thanks for sharing your talents!
Thank you, but I must confess I have watched youtube for help too.
@@bretspencer I sold an 05 dutchman 31ft travel trailer coupe months back. Bought as a project. I've done 3 travel trailers and rebuilt/remodeled them, currently looking for number 4. It started about 20 yrs back when I bought the 1st one from a friend. That's when the learning began, had to replace the stud framing accross the back, the bathroom had visual signs of water damage. Like I told my wife, they din't rot from the outside in, rather from the inside out. If you can see water damage figure on opening up the wall. Another little note, the 2X2 wood studs that they use to make up the house framing is such a cheap, sorry wood that it is not sold to the general public. It is from a tree called 'Lodge Pole Pine', very junky wood.... I think it will rot just from higher than normal humidity ranges, lol.
@@bretspencer Well said!!
@@jamesmoore3346 Our local big box home stores sell 2x2, and 2x1. It is crap wood, though, and you can never find a single straight piece anymore. The last contractor I saw who needed 2x2 was just buying good 2x4's and cutting them in half on his table saw, since they were better quality and cheaper, too.
I viewed 13 videos to find YOU.. thank you for actually teaching me everything I need to know in detail.. nobody else did, they were static noise, useless information, blah blah blah rants.. nothing to the point!! I'm so glad I found you.. thank you for the proper explanation and education on the tedious path I need to take.. I'm restoring a 1977 dodge titan.. I love everything about the ol giant but it has water damage on some of the walls and roof I need to repair, to make it beautiful again..
You are so welcome! I happy to hear the video helped so much. Thank you!
I was a full time RV tech for several years and now I just do it part time. Definitely my favorite job I’ve ever had
Awesome
I've been a computer programmer for 25 yrs and have met a lot of smart people. Your craft and skill exceed anything in my world as it involves knowledge, skill art, and very few others with whom you can readily collaborate on tough challenges. I spent my summer restoring an older park model trailer thanks to you taking the time to share your methods and i justed wanted to say thank you!
Thank you very much too, I tried programming and my mind just refused to make sense of it.
@@AZExpert I can now at 61yrs old, program the time and my VCR to record. I am on it!
Just saw your Video and you gave me and my wife a little hope and some shine shine at the end of the 🌧rainbow. We definitely have shed some tears 😭 these last few days. After five years of me going through extensive physical therapy for a traumatic brain injury I suffered from two battles I fought one on the home front as a police officer and the other while in the military. We were so excited that I had recovered enough to start traveling and we were ready to live or dream and start seeing the country. Especially like every one else. The last year of being lock down and not being able to travel was just one more
reason to hit the road running and we could hardly contain ourselves when we found the RV of our dreams this past week. We had budgeted to only want to spend 15-20 for a pull behind camper but when we found this motor home that had low mileage and was super clean we just thought it was meant to be ours and though it was 25K for a 2004 Jayco Greyhawk 26SS 25 footer that had only 25,500 miles and was very clean. We thought we would come up with the extra money some how and make it work. I did get on the roof, check for leaks but in all the excitement I missed getting up in the bunkhouse to check the corners for leaks and when we got the RV home and we started getting it ready to take it camping this weekend for my birthday. We pulled off the bunk mattress and noticed it was wet underneath and than found that in the right corner of the bunkhouse we have a leak that goes along the right wall of the bunkhouse. The other side wall is okay. Just that right side, just like in your video. So you’ve given us hope that we can get this fix. I’m almost willing to drive to AZ haha. We’re thinking if we fix the bunkhouse, should we just pull the trigger, get the roof fix too and add a new one. We’re far from rich and would have to borrow some more money to fix these issues. We just can’t see us not fix it right. You might just be are savior.
What’s a time line for something
like this and how many days would it take. Any suggestions or help would be appreciated.
It takes a lot of time. But you can do it. Because you have to. That's a good motivator for me. Just be patient and don't quit, you will win.
Amazing work! I am currently rebuilding the entire Class C attic space of a 1998 Winnebago Minnie. The side walls have water damage as did the entire attic bunk space walls, floor, and transom window wall. It’s been a major job thus far and the demolition phase was very time consuming. The final product will be nice. Your video certainly made me more confident about rebuilding the side structure. Thanks a million!
awesome!! Glad to help
I'm about to do the same work you just described. Could I ask about how much it has cost for the full repair ?
Dave Haag said it. .. maybe there not alot of us .. but you sure are helping us alot ! !!
Thank you so much for making this video ! I will treasure it ! Your great Mechanic !
I appreciate that!
Great video. There are a bunch of amateurs posting complete hack job methods to fix this issue. I'm glad to see what it really takes to fix this issue. Love the channel, and thanks for posting.
Thank you very much, I am happy to hear you enjoyed it!
This video has been both educational and entertaining for me. Thank you for your time and dedication to doing this great service. I now have a better idea what im getting myself into. Thank you again.
Welcome Lucas! Thanks for watching
Been there and done that, same roller tool. Your description of "tedious" is very true.
Thanks for watching! :)
Just like the roof I would not want to do it myself but I enjoy watching someone else doing it. Stay safe and healthy. Your videos are great.
It is always more enjoyable with Chad's help
GREAT ! GREAT ! video. My husband and I bought our first camper which is a 2002 Frontier Plainsman by Peak. It is a 5th wheel that needs the corner were the bathroom is replaced.
After watching this video you gave us some very great tips. I have taken the wall out (on the inside) along with part of the roof behind the bath tub, removed the bath tub and am pulling all the rotted luon so I can start the reframing. I love learning how to do new things and this is definitely going to be a challenge. I guess its not bad for a 67 year old women. Hubby will be making the framing boards as needed. GREAT instructions.
Holy Moly! Had no Idea how to repair this damage on our old mid 80's motor home. Our front bunk sides need serious work, and our RV roof is sagging bad. Had no idea how to repair this and planned on scrapping the motor home. But, after watching your videos I'm going to hold off on that and try to make some of those repairs. Id rather repair our RV and put it to a good purpose rather than junk it out.. Thanks for your Perseverance!!
Hey good luck on your repairs!
Thanks for the video. My 19 year old daughter just bought a 91 Ford RV and it has a lot of delaminating side walls. This video has helped me figure out what we are in for, i.e. TEDEOUS...
That is awesome! Your daughter is super cool!
My Wife and I live in our 2000 Country Coach Affinity. The charging, battery System is very complex. The system that you replaced a relay on was very informative. I love your channel and you are the most knowledgeable I have ever seen. Thanks for what you do for the RV community.
Thank you so much for the support and compliments. I really do learn something new everyday. Like today I learned how the automatic sewer hose system works on a Marathon coach.
@@AZExpert I really need a fixer. I live full time in my Class C. The one like your showing MINE received damage during Tornado a few yrs back. Now its bulging out water is still getting in. I had the entire bunk replaced 3 yrs ago so far no interior water damage is appearing. I have placed a strip of durabond and now 3 M weather proof tape trying to keep it dry as much as possible. A mobile service said They would have done the same. But it's not holding up. Im trying to find a repairman to fix it while I'm living in it. Do you have a garage or location you recommend or could you do the fix. I'm willing to drive wherever to get it done ASP. I need my home and want to keep it as long as possible.
Best video on delamination repair thank you
Wow, thanks!
Man oh man, what an excellent repair. Your encyclopedic knowledge of all things RV is really impressive.
Thank you kindly!
Thank you James. You make this look a lot easier than it really is. I’m just so impressed with your capabilities that I wouldn’t use anyone but yourself for repairs that are essential to an RV.
Having seen you recently replace a Winnebago roof I would never ever buy one. They look like they are held together by a wing and a prayer and the structural integrity is never considered.
The figures are just out re sales and it’s thought that Winnebago has dropped by 50% I’m not surprised. I personally doubt that a company that sells rubbish will not have the customer base it’s once attracted.
Thank you again and when you see a Winnebago pull up…. run 🏃
I do tend to cringe
Amazing skill set you have. I know luan is cheap and light, but after seeing this sort of thing, I appreciate those fiberglass builds.
This video is a big help. My basement doors have delaminated and I was unsure how to safely separate the Filon. This is next years RV project. BTW, check the expiration dates on your adhesives.
now ironically, many doors do not have a luan backing
James, Once again you've shown the correct way to repair your RV. Time and patience is the key. Great job and video my friend. Thanks again, as always! Regards, Myk
Thanks for watching
Just obtained a 33' class a, needs everything, youre a great help.
Your attention to detail is much appreciated ❤
The Super Hero RV Magic Man strikes again and gets another broken RV back on the road. Wow!
That's incredibly high praise. Thank you!
Wow, so tedious. Thanks for the video James and Chad. Happy trails!
It was!
This is an awesome video .. We have the entire back of our camper sagging .. We have a guy coming to give us a quote on it .. At least now , we understand what’s going on with it
OOf Sorry to hear that Pamela
I’ve had pop-ups, trailers, class Cs and class As and without exception they’ve all been shiny turds when new. The craftsmanship is always total hackery and it’s amazing how they charge so much for them.
Been there and done that, except I used azdel in place of luan as the backing to filon. Azdel is a composite sheet product that is completely water proof, and is impervious to water exposure. It is not a laminate like luan, and will not come apart nor develop mold when exposed to water as luan does. I rebuilt the entire over-head cab portion of the coach with this material and eliminated any water issues, even though the front overhead cab of the coach has windows in the front and sides. It’s a great product, and I would like to re-skin the remaining walls of my coach to eliminate the remaining luan in my coach walls and replace it with azdel.
Thanks for the suggestion
100% agree with you. This fella does great job reconstructing but only back to OEM spec. I wish they would determine the actual root cause where the failure happened, I feel like it’s the butyl tape that dries up and allows water in slowly. At least that is what I think happened to my class C. Also doing cab overhang rebuild 😕
Awesome job guys!! Just the video I've been looking for from you. I think it's well worth the headache and cost to get this done. At least it will protect the integrity of the rig and give you many years of life. Otherwise, most people would just get rid of it and buy a new rig. I think is just a waste of money.
I can't deny that any delamination really makes an RV look old and tired. Thank you!
Excellent video. This helps tremendously to understand the concepts of how to make repairs. Thank you.
Your workmanship shows you care good job
Thanks for watching!
WOW James.....been there - done that. The nose slowly de-laminated above the driver area. It came loose while I was driving 60 MPH and flopped back about a foot, laun particles scattering in my rear view mirror. Pulled off the highway, broke out the duct tape ( RED GREEN show technique ) and crawled home. After removing all loose material, rebuilding a window frame, I spread Liquid Nails tube adhesive and Gorilla glue to fill the gaps. It turned out satisfactorily but was TEE-DEE-OUSSS as you said. Sadly , your video was not posted yet. We all learn from each other. THANKS JwgK
I am amazed by the power of duct tape.
Thank you for sharing. We just bought a new East to West travel Trailer with the aluminum siding. In my mind the Aluminum is just easier to deal with if there are problems down the road.
As expected another great job! you always go the extra mile :) @12:00 thats not from heat. Thats from the added filtration the stickers brought to the table. UV penetration goes deep.
I didn't even think about light being the issue thanks!
I enjoyed the video for the fact that I can see and understand the inner guts of an RV, if future repairs are needed on mine. Of course, I just noticed some delamination starting and wanted to learn as much as I could about why it happens, how to fix it etc etc. Very informational, and the "Tedious Count" was great! Thanks!
Thanks for watching! :)
I owned a 2000 minnie, and redid that bunk area twice. It was in worse shape than the one you are working on. When the side opened again, I sold it. Now I wish I had taken it to an expert to fix....might have been 20 years old, but it was made much better than todays motorhomes.
I am a big fan of Winnebago class "C" and "B" motorhomes, and really they developed the same "manufacturing" in the late 90's and nothing has changed...which is why I have an issue with "high end diesel" Winnebago motorhomes.
James, I’m about to do the same to my 2010 north trail. This video is EXACTLY what I needed.
I hope it helps!
Thank you for sharing how to repair the RV wall.
Sir I been watching your videos and I may tell you that you really born to do what you do god bless you
Thats all the knowledge I needed to gain the confidence in taking my water damage on! Thanks a zillion!
Hey! that is awesome!
Excellent work most informative and I really enjoy watching your videos thank you
Thanks Howard~Thanks for watching!! :)
YES... you are super helpful - thanks you a lot.
I'll do about 1/2 the labor and still feel super good about it. Your work is superior.
Great Video very educational. I am replacing the delamihnated rear sides of my RV and and soon ready to use both the 440C and 183 contact ciment from Stabond.
My question is what do you use to clean your peint gun once your done using it?
Thanks for your time.
I don't, I see the gun as a one time use and buy the warranty from harbor freight
Thanks for your answer concerning the spray guns, so you gust dispose of them when you are done using them. Can you use the same gun when going from 183 to 440 or do you need to use a different gun every time?
Great video - Thank you for sharing and passing on the knowledge! Being in Alaska the prices for repairs are astronomically super expensive $200 hr....
Hey, thank you for the info on looking at fixing the siding of a class C. I currently have the same problem on an RV I just bought about 2 weeks ago... I wanted to ask why you used a contact cement unlike what many other videos using epoxy..? Also are you located in Arizona???
I saw your most recent video where you installed TPO onto a discovery RV. My question was answered by watching this video. My front nose cap has a really big crack from all the rain we have received these past few weeks. I was told this had water damage and was fixed but this must be something they did not tackle. Thanks for your help. Hopefully I can get this mended and back together before June when it's too hot to be outside.
Wow that was execellent! Im suprised and glad ro see you put so much time and skill to insure that the end result is at as least as good or better than original product. And thanks for sharing.
Thank you very much!
Thank you for the detail. I'm getting ready to do a similar repair on the front corner of a Keystone Sprinter 5th wheel. I at least now feel the job is doable.
I see this a very tedious process 😂. Thanks for posting this. I have this same issue with my travel trailer. Gonna try to tackle it now that I see how it’s done!
Thanks for watching
Wow! Great video. Definitely a lot of work and you showed us how involved a job like that can be. I have some areas on my travel trailer doing the same thing but they are not that bad. I don't do well with "tedious" so I'm not messing with it. I am very mechanically inclined but I'm not inclined to take on a job like that. I really appreciate you making this video. I was contemplating trying the repair but your video convinced me otherwise. Thank you for saving me the headache and the possible complete destruction of my travel trailer.
That’s basically how we do it here in Az, nice job sir
glad to hear it!
Great detail and a very TEDIOUS video. Thank you for the great content.
Much appreciated!
Good work! Do you suppose it would be a similar process on the decks of the bed pop outs on a "hybrid travel trailer". Mine has some rotten wood on the deck of the front pop out due to an old roof leak. Mine is a Salem lite 19t by Forest River. So it has aluminum siding on the walls, but the pop out decks /walls seem like they are laminated. I don't think there is foam in there but I haven't torn it apart yet to find out.
I’m learning so much from your videos. Super informative. Thanks
Glad to hear it!
You could be the first to use a glasses camera, then you could use both hands and be safer on a ladder, love the videos we are in sun city Arizona 99th and bell area
Great idea Gary Davis!! Now go down to the Store and buy a pair of glasses camera and send them to the AZ Expert!!
Reminds me to check roof seams on my RV and reseal as necessary. It’s a tedious job for sure!
definitely worth the inspection. Thanks!
It is amazing to me that RV manufacturers use items to build an RV that cannot withstand the elements. The work you are doing is as you say "tedious". Thank you for presenting your very detailed process. I had no idea that wood was sandwiched under the fiberglass. I had an older motor home that had the corrugated fiberglass siding that had delaminated. I had no idea why until seeing your video today.
Until 10 years ago there wasn't a good alternative to this crappy thin plywood. Now there is: Azdel.
Thanks for the video. Lots to think about on fixing my delaminating camper
What can I substitute for Luan? Any type of underlayment that is 1/8" thick? Allrite wants $80 for a 4x8 sheet. Can I use something like what Lowe's has, 5mm revolutionary plywood? How about 1/8th inch utility panel..? I'm not too concerned with manufacture specs. My RV won't be resold. It's cheap, and I'm just looking to keep it going for a couple more years.
Thanks..!!!
yes any 1/8 thick ply. Im looking for a spray can alternative for t440
@@farmermike9262don't know how comparable it is but i used to get cans of 3m spray adhesive from work that would stick just about anything together.
Thanks for your professional help. My husband in the middle of doing the exact same thing! What cleaner did you use to take the glue off the siding?
3m adhesive remover
Thanks!! I had my overhead area rebuilt a few years back. Unfortunately, it's falling apart again! The company said it would be guaranteed for "life", but their workmanship was so poor & the employee was quite A.D.D., which added to the problem. I had to take it back several times...I really don't want to deal with them again. They forgot to reseal the windows & clearance lights, amongst other issues.
But now I know how the construction under it all looks like.
Hi, so what is the best way to remove the cardboard/hardboard backing from filon? My 1999 Tioga used that "hardboard" instead of luan.
Amazing, gives me hope for my trailer... how much would this cost? Roughly?
Thank you sir for the great walk through. Must have been "tedious" to film edit and post. Is there a version of the glue in a "spray can" type made for smaller quick repairs?? Thanks in advance.
Hi great videos we 2008 dutchman fifth wheel
While taking a look at her after the winder we noticed there was rotten wood under the front sidewalk just the first 5 inches or so should we redo the wood or clean and reseal there is no delaminating
Thank you for the great video. So does that particular RV have an entire galvenized square tubing framework in all the walls front to back or does it have any wood framework besides the paneling?
Thanks for the great videos. Could you do one to explain the where the strength in an over-cab comes from? In rebuilding one from water damage, what areas are holding up the front of the bed?
I will keep it in mind
We repaired a Winnie with exactly the same damage here in the UK. The construction of these units is shockingly bad. Good luck to you.
you'll get no argument from me!
Glad I watched this before trying to repair a delaminated 5th wheel back wall!
Oof!
Fantastic job well done your Oscar is waiting I got tired just watching I'm interested in buying a used rv can't afford a new one I'm bracing myself for what's to come great video thanks.
Thanks Eric
Good job….thanks for taking the time to share!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video!!!! I'm going through the same thing on my 5th wheel. I'm at the point of installing the side panel back and been searching for the proper glue. Is there another glue that is comparable to the one you used that I can purchase?
I did a similar job on the front 5' of my fifth wheel last winter. The filon was gone when I bought it and the previous owner tried repairing it with liquid nails and bathroom wallboard. I removed all that and cut a clean edge thru the filon and luan. I then glued up a new sheet of luan followed by a sheet of filon. The seam isn't perfect but I filled it with epoxy filled with sanding dust from the filon. I also left the luan and filon long and trimmed it with a flush trim router following the front cap. I also had to rebuild the back wall. Most of it was delaminated but there was a couple spots where the original luan was still well attached. I removed as much as I could and sanded down the edges of what I couldn't remove. The repair went well otherwise and you can barely see the lumps.
The back foot or so of the side is also delaminated but I ran out of time so I just squeezed some construction adhesive in as far as I could and crossed my fingers. It's still delaminated but I know the edge where it goes under the corner trim is sealed and secured. I will probably end up removing the window near the delam and trying the epoxy trick but I will use plywood and cribbing to hold it flat while it cures.
Your video is excellent. I was almost hoping you would crack the filon so I could see how you fixed it. I have a small crack in my back wall that I need to fix. It is completely sealed behind following my rebuild. It just looks bad because the crack is old and dirt got into it.
This was my first time owning or doing a thing to an RV. There was some water damage under a couple windows so I ripped out the entire back panel, and the front cab over , it was really quite straight forward , it was a pain in the ass in the rotten portions because the very thin plywood had turned to something resembling paper that was glued to the foam insulation. He shows some of this, yes tedious, some of it came out in Pea size pieces. So I had to use a paint scraper to peal it off bit by bit, but the more intact plywood was easy to pry out , then so long as the insulation is fine , and if it's foam it probably is , it's just a matter of sticking a new panel up. Really with a bit of elbow grease, most anyone could do it ! So don't be afraid to do it yourself.
I'm glad this helped, but sorry it's tedious :)
I am about to endure this issue on my RV I have been debating on using "FRP". FRP is used in restaurant kitchens and appears to be the same material but in my opinion...stronger than what we have on our old camper (1987) So with your help..and others..we should be on the road soon! Good luck my friend.
FRP and Filon are in the same family of materials and will take glue the same.
@@AZExpert Thanks my friend. I am going to be glued to your channel.
Looked TEDIOUS! thanks for the video looking at a lance truck camper that needs this done. Big help!
Glad it helped!
whats a spray can alternative to t440?
Dude, thanks for showing me how tedious fixing those "small " repairs can be.
Second on you getting a camera that rides on your glasses, or head would be safer, and explorations would be more visual.
Watching you fix a basement ac yesterday.
It would have helped.
I am retired commercial hvac technician. Got me thinking, how many of those old r22 units are out there, that need service. I'm on the east coast. But everything you did, was very well in my abilities. Maybe, I should see if I can find someone in need. Have all my tools, and a jug of 22! Thanks for all the info and education!
There are likely 50-100k units. They should be very simple for a real HVAC tech, it's just the installation and age means repairs can be costly. I've tried a few different camera setups, but have had too many videos ruined because I can't review the shots easily until after the work is done just to find out the audio or video was wrong...or corrupted or never recorded.
Is there any other epoxy/adhesive that I could use for a 1'x4' delamination issue? The Sta-bond 440 is only sold by the gallon and its pricey.. I also read someone using 3m 90 High Strength, thoughts?
❤ James, I'm wondering if you could use formica as a replacement siding? 👍👍
Formica has zero strength and will crack
Looks perfect to me. Helpful video. I have the exact problem.
Yeah that was helpful for me to see what's under the damage in the camper
Thanks for lesson James! My 2005 Thor has exactly the same water damage on the driver side. Ouch! I'm going to attempt a repair myself and have the time. Just curious if a different contact cement could be used instead of Stabond? I know that's the correct stuff but so expensive and just a small area to cover. Any 2nd choice cement that would work?
Very good videos!
Question remains. What causes these leaks???
I feel like the butyl tape that they use everywhere dries and shrinks!!! Any thoughts?
You have some SERIOUS PATIENCE!! Wow! Nice job! I'm curious how many hours this project took?
I'd say the whole job together was 5-6 hours.
I wonder if a steam wallpaper stripper would work to soften the glue between the filon and the luan to get them apart easier?
I would not use that
Is there a metal frame all this wood and paneling is connected to? I cant imagine it would all be attached to wood studs
Great video! I’ve begun the dismantle of our rv from the inside. I’m def not gonna go this far ( because I’m scared lol)
I’m also not concerned with looks I’m just repairing a leak ( hopefully😂)
No experience… I’m just winging it… and documenting as I go… this should be interesting 😮
OUTSTANDING! You are RV repair wizard. Watching your videos makes me want to design a better RV. If i was building a small trailer maybe 20' long, what material should i use fiber glass over 3/8" BC plywood or fiber glass in a mold like a boat? Your thoughts?
a molded fiberglass roof is the strongest and best which will only be found on "high end" motorhomes.
Wondering what you decided to do? I'm trying to replace a missing piece of fiberglass same size as what he did here..but money is a problem currently. I had a body man offer to do the wall. But I wanted wider trim for my front corners
AZDEL technology has pretty much made these repairs obsolete on newer units with filon sidewalls thank goodness .
What do you think about PSG AluPOLY ACM panels instead of the typical Filon / Luan exterior panels? Love your videos. Thank you.
We are thinking it will be better to buy some Filon to replace ours. Do you have a suggestion on the type?
Being a boat builder and marine repair specialist, I am curious why you don't use a penetrating epoxy to glue and stabilize the delaminated luan?
Could you give us information where can we get materials for RVS?
What about the foam damage in the upper left corner?
I didn't cover it much, but the exterior wall and foam are laminated then channel CNC cut out for the wires and frame, then the aluminum frame is placed and welded in the foam.....don't ask me why, that's how they do it, so a little bit of melting will happen in the foam. Thanks!
James why rvs aren't make with the same protective paper that the houses have between the siding and wood? Can this be add during repairs to protect the wood from getting damage?
No
That coach has seen better days that's for sure. Hopefully that stabilized it for the time being.
They got it all fixed
You do amazing work
Thank you so much 😀