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Slik · 05-13-2013, 05:52 PM

Hello,
My dad and I are trying to fix a leak in a window and replace the floor in my '67 GT before my trip. We noticed three holes at the right end of the awning rail that seem to go clear through the aluminum. This of course is the side where I feed my awning through, so I'm not sure what's supposed to be there in its place. We'd appreciate advice on how/if we can fill them properly.

Slik · 05-13-2013, 05:54 PM

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cwf · 05-13-2013, 09:03 PM

Looks like you found another leak above your window... I am not familiar with the GT.. but, those holes appear to be places where the awning had "stop rivets" installed.. or some other device if the awning were not there..

To 'fix', well, you can squirt some sealant (NOT SILICONE) in there... and then slide in a round piece of aluminum to take up all the slack and divert water. Of course you would want your 'awning' to already be in place.

If, however you will be taking the awning in and out, then you need this space to be "serviceable". I suggest you seal with sealant and shape the area to allow the insert/install of the awning key strip (that is the initial part of the awning..)

Slik · 05-13-2013, 09:24 PM

Whoops-a-daisy, he was caulking the window with silicone earlier. What would you recommend for the sealant? Would we use the same for the window? I do use my awning, so we'll use your tips to be careful. Thank you so much for your help!

cwf · 05-13-2013, 10:43 PM

Get the silicone off your aluminum.. it will corrode it.

Sikaflex is what I have used.. and it comes from Airstream company store in their 'reseal' kit. I would source it there for a quick turnaround.

Use it on windows, too.. get the gray/aluminum color..

There are other 'sealants' that you will find on the site and have good results.. just NO SILICONE.
Good luck!

ROBERT CROSS · 05-14-2013, 04:37 AM

Polyurethane sealant in the holes, insert a section of round AC cord in the channel, (light coat of dielectric grease), 'til dry.

Bob

Slik · 05-14-2013, 10:51 AM

Could someone please share a photo of their awning rail (right) bracket? Before patching the holes I'm curious what was there before, particularly if it's not secured appropriately.

Thanks to all who have helped! The Air Forums is sure a great resource to help a lot of vintage trailers be better cared for.

cwf · 05-14-2013, 11:22 PM

Checknout ZipDee. They have pics that show the awning going in the slot. Mr. Cross gaave a better option to fix..then just keep an eye on it..you will be fine. Just make sure the awning is not fraying in that area.

Slik · 05-22-2013, 03:53 PM

An update (by request): I found the bracket and screws that fit into the right end of the awning rail, but since I need it open for my awning my dad filled the holes using your suggestions. Unfortunately it's still leaking here in rainy New Hampshire, but after spending one day at a Camping World in NY with a gas leak and my birthday getting new brakes I'm just glad I made it here. We'll try to seal the holes and window up again when I get home and out of the rain. Thanks for all the help!