Plasticote

[WayWard Wind]

some time ago I started a thread regarding the finish on a 2002 model . Is there a different between Plasticote & Clearcoat? I knew I had read somewhere that the new models had a different finish. In looking thru some old Blue Beret issuses I came across the article I had read. June 2002 reads from Dave Schumann Dir. Service, Parts, Warrenty---Plasticote--is a clear acrylic coating to protect the aluminum skin from oxidizing. ---This coating was used prior to 1999 models or on units that are stripped & recoated. This can be maintained by washing trailer & then using Walbernize Super Seal & Glaze.------ Starting in 1999 trailers were built with metal that was coated with PF8A0-1 Flourocarbon Clear paint. This finish is applied by Alcoa before Airstream receives the metal to build the trailers. ---This finish is durable and can be easily maintained by washing with a 5% solution of any common detergent then waxing.
I'm still confused --sounds like the newer models ---since 1999-- have a different finish, which is simular to cars, etc, & may not be subject to peeling like Plasticote. Any ideas ?
Best

[jcanavera]

You will find that the Walbernize Super Seal is a great product to use on the Alcoa finsh also. My dealer uses this on every new A/S he delivers. I've done mine each year just before putting the Safari into its inside winter storage home. If you keep yours outside you should probably use the Super Seal about twice a year. Timewise it takes me about 3 hours to do my 27' Safari.

Jack

[Rickk48]

The newer units do have a different coating, applied by Alcoa. But, in my opinion, regardless of this you would be smart to protect it with the Walbernize Super Seal product. Hopefully, the peeling problem of Plasticote is solved, but it's too early to be sure.

I use the Walbernize product about every 4 months because my Bambi is stored in a lot without cover. Finish looks great!