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newae · 03-10-2004, 09:58 PM

I just tore a hole in the side of my trailer while putting her in storage. Its about one and a half inches long with and about an eighth of an inch tear. Its small but you can see the insulation inside the wall. I need to get this repaired. I want it to look good and not cheap. Can it be welded? Any ideas would be appreciated!! I am just sick about it!!!

Tony....

uwe · 03-11-2004, 04:31 AM

Tony,
The material is too thin to be welded. You will have to either patch it, or replace the entire panel.
I would make sure no water can enter the damaged area.
You did not mention where the damage is. Yoiumay have other options, depending on the location.

newae · 03-11-2004, 07:23 AM

Its on the curbside next to the hot water heater about two feet up. I think I may have to have it patched, but want to explore all my options since its not that big. I put a little caulk on it for now so it doesnt leak.

TomW · 03-11-2004, 07:37 AM

Not knowing what your bathroom looks like, I don't know if it's feasible, but see if you can get access to the back side of the tear. You only need an area roughly the size of the tear.

Once you have gained access, have your assistant hold a dolly/mandel/something hard against the tear while you, using a rubber mallet, flatten the metal back out. Once it is flat, JB Weld a stiffener plate to the back side. If you do it right, at least it won't be a leak path.

If it still doesn't look good enough, the second option is to glue a reflector onto it like Airstream recommends in their Rear End Separation fix.

Just options,
Tom

thenewkid64 · 03-11-2004, 08:14 AM

Since there is a hole there already you could go one better and add a marker light.

Sorry to hear about the injury

newae · 03-12-2004, 12:33 AM

Thanks guys.

I may just put a small patch over it. I like the picture from "Tin Hut" with a beer bottle opener on the side of his trailer. I think this may work!!

Tin Hut · 03-12-2004, 06:12 AM

Yes, even a skin repair can be a reason to quaff a cold one. If you were in my neighborhood I'd assist in the patch job just so I could join in.

newae · 03-12-2004, 11:11 AM

Tin Hut,

Is their an aluminum plate behind your bottle opener? I see something round behind it.

davidz71 · 03-12-2004, 05:12 PM

Hi Tony,
You could look for a small aluminum or stainless door with frame and lock, cut an opening and rivet the door in. It would look like it was made to be there and you'd never have to open it.