access to fix leak

rvlover · 10-12-2005, 08:18 AM

Just returned home with our new purchase (1979 28' Excella mh), a 1,200 mile trip full of "adventure". Now the question, located a leak in the water line in the bath area (center bath). The leak is in a brass T on the floor near the driver side wall. I can see the leak through an access hole in the closet but can't reach the fitting. I am new at this and the only idea I have is cutting an access hole in the wheel well, repairing the leak then patching the hole. I would appreciate ideas on getting to this leak and if my idea is ok, how to patch the hole in the wheel well. I love this motorhome and this Airstream Forum. Thanks in advance for your help. Joe

jaiman · 10-12-2005, 08:28 AM

I had a similar issue when mine was new to me. If you have an access hole in the closet that is for draining the water system for winterizing. I simply drilled out the rivets holding the aluminum shelf in place. I did the repair on the pipe and riveted the shelf back in place. Was quite a simple fix.

Jai

smily · 10-12-2005, 08:30 AM

You could do it the conventional way and remove the panel that covers the plumbing from the inside.

Simply remove trim vinyl insert and drill out the rivets. Then remove panel. You should be able to access the plumbing from the bathroom.

Everything in an Airstream is subject to dis-assembly and re-assembly. The whole thing was built from the inside. All components of an Airstream interior will fit through the entry door.

desi arnaz · 10-12-2005, 08:35 AM

i beg to differ with that last statement. the top of the 2 piece shower assebmly will not fit through the door of a 2000 excella. i tried for hours and there was no way to do it.

smily · 10-12-2005, 08:40 AM

Maybe a call to AS is in order.

jaiman · 10-12-2005, 08:47 AM

"Maybe a call to AS is in order.

"

Or you could simply follow my advice.

rvlover · 10-12-2005, 09:09 AM

Thanks for the help. The access port in the closet is 3+ feet from the leak and the closet is only about 10" wide (I'm a lot more than 10"). The portion of the bath that need to be removed for access is the sink, medicine cabinet section. Is this one piece? Thanks joe

smily · 10-12-2005, 09:38 AM

It is not one piece but I believe you will not have to remove the sink and medicine cabinet.

The Panel below the sink will come out independant of the sink.

I have removed this panel to get to the flange bolts of the toilet, (Elbow Room) and to refinish the panel.

If you have photos it may be easier to help you.

smily · 10-12-2005, 09:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaiman

"Maybe a call to AS is in order.

"

Or you could simply follow my advice.

What is your advice

Did you get the shower out?

smily · 10-12-2005, 09:50 AM

Confirmed, everything goes through the door. including shower. Shell is manufactured first in its entirety.

Was the door your problem or other constrictions like furniture or obstructions?

jaiman · 10-12-2005, 09:56 AM

Smily I was referrring to my advice for the originas post of fixing the leak. Didnt notice the comment about the shower. My mistake.

jai

rvlover · 10-12-2005, 02:49 PM

Thanks for the info...will get the camera out and try to get photos tomorrow...joe