Need Advice on Seam sealing material

[nm1oqrz]

Hello. Going to soon start replacing my front panels above the window that were damaged when the canvas carport collapsed due to snow.
Need advice on what product to use on the panel seams. Also I learned that the Olimpic Rivits can be purchased with a small neopreme washer or without. Which one to use? My airstream is a 1988 25ft Excella.
Thanks Joe nm1oqrz

[Melody Ranch]

DO NOT use the Olympics with the washer.
Sealant is debatable...I like Sealmate aluminum. Many like an Acryl product...call Inland and ask them for advice ...they sell it all.

[CanoeStream]

Acryl-R is a thin bodied sealer intended to reseal intact lapped seams. I wouldn't use it during panel installation. I prefer Sikaflex 221 -- less mess than the lumpy Vulkem that takes forever to lose tack. Sikaflex sets a nice skin within a handful of hours. The factory & Lewster use it -- feel like I'm in good company there (posts at 1, 2, 3 & many more).

Airstream Store has them. I see Sikaflex in Home Depot but it usually is numbered differently than what we hear recommended for 'Streams.

2airishuman has posted a very good how-to on use of Acryl-R.

[heslinhotel]

I am in the middle of resealing all the seams, windows, lights etc. I am using Vulcum 921(no lumps or grit in it) gray color. I have been taping both sides of the seams before applying sealer. I do agree it takes a while for the Vulcum to dry, I applied some on a very windy day and when I checked the next day had all sorts of stuff stuck. I use Vulcum 921 because it stays plyable and allows expansion/contraction without cracking. It is a polyurathane based sealer, many other sealers are either latex or silicone based. Silicone in particular does not adhere well to aluminum. I use "Goof-Off" to clean and smooth seams out. Taping takes time and patience but makes a very clean seal line.

[safari62]

Frank's Trailer Works Blog

Check out sealer products and uses on franks blog.