Split in exterior at segment protector mount

[LittleLucy]

I discovered a few cracks in the exterior of my Bambi at the mount for the segment protector on front right side. How to repair?......or do I have to replace the entire panel/section?

[Iansk]

Hey there,

I’d probably pull off the segment protectors and brackets then tastefully add a reinforcement patch under each bracket of thicker aluminum sheet stock.
I had a similar situation on my Avion on the hold-downs for my window rock guard and this is what I did to fix it.

Replacing the whole panel seems like overkill and before you know it you’d be doing a full monte shell off and adding a second story...

Ian

[HiHoAgRV]

Here ya go.

[FishByFly]

-Remove bracket
-Reseal crack and holes
-Reinforce with aluminum backer plate - could be creative with size and shape
-Reattach bracket

[LittleLucy]

Originally Posted by Iansk

Hey there,

I’d probably pull off the segment protectors and brackets then tastefully add a reinforcement patch under each bracket of thicker aluminum sheet stock.
I had a similar situation on my Avion on the hold-downs for my window rock guard and this is what I did to fix it.

Replacing the whole panel seems like overkill and before you know it you’d be doing a full monte shell off and adding a second story...

Ian

I think I will patch as suggested. Best to not go two stories on a 19' footer[emoji23] might get a bit top heavy!

[LittleLucy]

Originally Posted by HiHoAgRV

Here ya go.

Thanks! Looks like the way to go!

[LittleLucy]

Originally Posted by FishByFly

-Remove bracket
-Reseal crack and holes
-Reinforce with aluminum backer plate - could be creative with size and shape
-Reattach bracket

Know what I'll be doing in the next few days! Thanks for the help!

[57Vintage]

Would suggest you drill a small hole at the end of the crack to reduce chance of it continuing. Like plexiglas the crack will continue to grow if there is any stress on the panel.

[Foiled Again]

Maybe old eyes, but could that be filiform corrosion rather than a crack? If so clean gently anf treat with formula 303, and seal with clearcoat (OR silver fingernail polish)

[rmkrum]

There looks to be filiform around parts of the area, but I would bet there’s a growing crack as well. I would wonder what made the crack start, and also try to eliminate the root cause, if at all possible.

[LittleLucy]

Originally Posted by HiHoAgRV

Here ya go.

Thanks....what size rivet did you use? 1/8 x 3/16?