Corrosion

[Kirbys]

We have a 2005 Bambi Safari. We have noticed increased exterior skin corrosion. We have asked several Airstream specialists about this and have received no solution: Filiform corrosion is a type of localized corrosion that is often associated with aluminum and magnesium alloys that have an organic coating. Filiform corrosion tends to occur at high humidity, e.g. greater than about 75% and temperatures at or slightly above room temperature. The corrosion appears as thread-like filaments under the coating. The corrosion products cause the coating to bulge giving the surface the appearance akin to that of a lawn riddled with mole tunnels. The filaments proceed from points where the coating is no longer continuous. Numerous coating systems are susceptible. Damage to the metal tends to be limited but the effect on appearance tends to be detrimental. I have attempted contacting Airstream and have not had my calls returned. Has anyone had any luck with a solution for the filiform corrosion?

[tkasten]

This is a problem - check you this thread: Corrosion problems with new Airstreams
Best.

[dkottum]

It will happen in an environment close to salt such as San Diego with the ocean air, or our Minnesota winter roadways. It usually starts at the edge of alumininum panels, or on light fixtures, wheels, exterior fittings. Our trailer had some when new (part of the bargaining) because of being towed on salty roads, or sitting on the dealers lot near the highway in winter.

The solution for us is to not try to remove it (you're just exposing more edges) but to treat it with Corrosion X or Boeshield, both available from the airstream store by mail order. I sprayed the edges the first time, but had a heck of a cleanup on my hands because there was way more product than needed all over. Now after washing the trailer, I use a Q-tip dipped in the product and wipe it on the edges where there is corrosion, or where I think corrosion may form. Next day or so I wipe it off, and it seems to be absorbed by the filiform keeping water out and preventing more corrosion. Whatever the reason, it has not advanced.

Doug

Also, I have sprayed the wheel wells, frame, and any underside steel components with Boeshield as protection.

[xrvr]

No solution found. It's cosmetic only. sorry zz

[tpi]

No solution, but I do think you can retard it and possibly prevent some outbreaks by using ACF 50, Boeshield, on the rivet lines, any voids in the clearcoat, and panel edges. Also on the corrosion prone license bracket, and emblems. I've used mostly ACF 50 on mine treating the rivet lines and edges yearly and the few minor outbreaks more frequently.

I do a corrosion inspection every couple months and aggressively treat any problem areas.