Sealing/caulking question

[goswick]

The previous owner called every joint/seam possible on my '68 Airstream. I'm redoing the obvious places and wonder if it is necessary to seal the places where the aluminum sheets overlap. I've attached a picture example of the area I'm asking about.

Thanks

[TheGreatleys]

Originally Posted by goswick

The previous owner called every joint/seam possible on my '68 Airstream. I'm redoing the obvious places and wonder if it is necessary to seal the places where the aluminum sheets overlap. I've attached a picture example of the area I'm asking about.

Thanks

I don't think so. Far more likely you'd be getting leaks at bad rivets than a lap seam in the aluminum, especially a horizontal seam lapped the right direction.

I suggest you seal around all the "stuff" on your roof (vents, antennas, etc), around the windows and doors, and check every rivet with a suction cup. Dig old sealant out as much as possible before putting down new.

[goswick]

Originally Posted by TheGreatleys

I don't think so. Far more likely you'd be getting leaks at bad rivets than a lap seam in the aluminum, especially a horizontal seam lapped the right direction.

I suggest you seal around all the "stuff" on your roof (vents, antennas, etc), around the windows and doors, and check every rivet with a suction cup. Dig old sealant out as much as possible before putting down new.

Thanks for your reply...after I've gotten all the old calk pretty much scrapped out do you think I should wash the seams down with something like mineral spirits to get rid the remaining residue?

[TheGreatleys]

Originally Posted by goswick

Thanks for your reply...after I've gotten all the old calk pretty much scrapped out do you think I should wash the seams down with something like mineral spirits to get rid the remaining residue?

I've had good luck with carburator cleaner and a rag. Maybe a plastic scraper for stubborn bits.