Walbernized the rock guards and...

Kistler · 03-08-2003, 03:08 PM

The rock guards didn't come out like the trailer body--shining?? Did someone once post that the rock guards should not be Walbernized?

Apparently the rock guards are not coated the same as the trailer body.

What should I do to return them to the shape they were in? They are blotchey.

**jcanavera** · 03-08-2003, 05:18 PM

You can do them but the finish on the guards is different and doesn't take the Walbernize like the trailer body does. It takes some elbow grease and you need to lay the Walbernize on several times. You can get them looking pretty good this way. If you just do the single coat the guards come out sort of splotchy looking.

Jack

Kistler · 03-08-2003, 06:59 PM

Thank you for the reply, Jack. I guess that I'll leave the splotchey look and hope it wears away with time and washing.

I have another question regarding Walbernizing, cleaning and washing concerning the roof. How do you get onto the roof?

I have a "ladder system" which is sort of an adjustable step ladder. I can get to roof level but with the shape of the coach, I am about 2 feet away from the roof. If I lean over I can grab a hold on the awning and climb on but that is a little un nerving.

If I lean the ladder (make it straight like an extension ladder) I am afraid I will dent the coach. Any ideas?

Kistler

thenewkid64 · 03-08-2003, 09:05 PM

Kistler

If the ladder is tall enough you could lean it on the awning rollers. If not you may want to fashion a cross piece with a 2X4 that is wide enough to span the ribs , cover it with a soft cover, Carpet covered with an old towel works great, and lash it to the top of the ladder. This will spread the weight of you and the ladder over 2 or more ribs and keep you from denting your new unit.

Hope this helps

**jcanavera** · 03-08-2003, 11:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Kistler
I have another question regarding Walbernizing, cleaning and washing concerning the roof. How do you get onto the roof?
Kistler

I bought an extendable pole with a large soft brush end at Camping World that I use to wash the roof (and the rest of the trailer). I have an extension A frame ladder that is almost as tall as the trailer. I keep a bucket on the ground that contains my Armor-All water mixture. I have the pole extended and I can dip the brush into the bucket and then raise it to the roof. Roof cleans up great this way.

As far as getting on the roof. I haven't tried to yet. I can Walbernize the entire trailer except the painted white roof. Can't reach that without getting up there. I've put this off so far but I probably will need to do eventually. I should pull the cover off the Penguin to make sure it is clean and the drain is clear of windblown debris.

I've seen methods from placing a ladder against the awing roller and going up that way, to making a small platform which can traverse the distance from the roof to an A frame ladder. None look great to one who doesn't like heights.

Jack

lynn · 03-09-2003, 08:16 AM

The wrap protectors are stainless steel and not aluminum. They do not have a coating on them. The splotches are from the Walbernize getting in the grain of the metal. Alcohol should remove the Walbernize.

Kistler · 03-09-2003, 09:14 AM

Thank you all for your advice; and Lynn, do you mean plain old rubbing alcohol?

Covered 2 X 4 across ribs sounds good to me.

I noticed that the end caps really can't support much; I leaned on one and it gave like there is nothing underneath. I think John mentioned when walking on the roof to stay off the end caps.

Kistler

thenewkid64 · 03-09-2003, 09:17 AM

The rivet lines in the end caps are standing seams that usally have no support underneath. There should be a horizontal rib across the top of the rear window, but I would try to reach the end/top from the side to avoid possible damage.

wb13798 · 03-09-2003, 09:56 AM

you are correct the end caps dont have very much support under them . best stay off . the painted top i would use a wash that has a wax in it . and also stay off the top. if you dont have to go up dont. to clean the ac drain hose that is accomplished from the inside. if it aint broke dont fix it. lol
al

Kistler · 03-09-2003, 01:30 PM

Have I told you lately that I appreciate you--all of you.

I purchased a "wand" type washing brush and I think I'll stay off the roof.

I can imagine what it would cost for bodywork, especially on top or at the ends.

**jcanavera** · 03-09-2003, 04:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by wb13798
to clean the ac drain hose that is accomplished from the inside. if it aint broke dont fix it. lol
al

I would assume that the pan can collect windblown debris. Wouldn't that debris eventually clog the the drain in the pan?

Jack

Silvertwinkie · 03-09-2003, 04:48 PM

Hey, while on the subject of the guards, seeing that they are stainless vs. aluminum, are they less prone to dents from stuff flying off the rear of the car?

Eric

**jcanavera** · 03-10-2003, 08:12 AM

Yes, they can take a little more impact. I do have some small dents on mine so they are doing their job.

Jack