Window leakage on 1975 Sovereign 31' Airstream

[ebrannen]

I just added the Airstream Forum App to my iPad and this is my first post!

A year ago I purchased a 1975 Sovereign Airstream 31'. Then I had a certified camper repairman to repair and check out all electrical and plumbing. All exterior lights are working and all kitchen appliances, air conditioner, water heater, bathroom/ holding tanks in working order.

Current problem: I have several windows that drip water from the inside and one drip over the back bedroom twin bed area on the right(only ceiling drip) - Should I seal from outside with silicone? or what should I use?

OR should I replace seals in windows? I hope that I can stop leaks at windows without replacing seals! The person I purchased the airstream from also noted problems with leakage at windows. Thanks for your help, Elaine

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by ebrannen

I just added the Airstream Forum App to my iPad and this is my first post!

A year ago I purchased a 1975 Sovereign Airstream 31'. Then I had a certified camper repairman to repair and check out all electrical and plumbing. All exterior lights are working and all kitchen appliances, air conditioner, water heater, bathroom/ holding tanks in working order.

Current problem: I have several windows that drip water from the inside and one drip over the back bedroom twin bed area on the right(only ceiling drip) - Should I seal from outside with silicone? or what should I use?

OR should I replace seals in windows? I hope that I can stop leaks at windows without replacing seals! The person I purchased the airstream from also noted problems with leakage at windows. Thanks for your help, Elaine

Never, EVER, use silicone selaer on the exterior of your Airstream.

The window gaskets "MUST" be replaced, as they don't last 37 years.

Sealing seams won't stop bad gasket leaks.

Proper exterior sealers are Parr-bond for small seams and Vulkem or Sikaflex for large seams.

Also, check the sewer vent pipe cover gaskets, as they only last 2 to 3 years.

Andy

[Minno]

Also be aware that your bedroom leak may originate from somewhere other than right over the bed. Leaks have a way of "traveling" along a seam before exiting inside the trailer. Look at your vents for openings also. And, yes, don't use classic silicone products. Some will eat your aluminum. Vulkem, Parbond and Sikaflex are the things to use. You can find them on-line at Vintage Trailer, Out-of-Doors Mart, Inland RV, and other on-line resources if you do a search. Older trailers are like older homes, they need ongoing maintenance.
Welcome to the Forums! There's a wealth of information here and always help for problems.

Kay

[ebrannen]

Wow - I was headed in the wrong direction. This is my first travel trailer and I have so much to learn. I wanted an older Airstream and I am enjoying getting it back in good condition but I do want to repair correctly. Thanks for the responses, tips, and places to search for what I may need. Very helpful, Elaine

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by ebrannen

Wow - I was headed in the wrong direction. This is my first travel trailer and I have so much to learn. I wanted an older Airstream and I am enjoying getting it back in good condition but I do want to repair correctly. Thanks for the responses, tips, and places to search for what I may need. Very helpful, Elaine

An owners and/or service manual would answer many of your questions.

Both are available.

Andy