|
|
11-20-2003, 11:55 PM
|
#421
|
Rivet Master
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
|
Thanks~!
Safari Tim...
You're a gentleman and, a wise scholar to boot~!~
That's the one~
ciao
__________________
WBCCI 5292 AIR 807
NEU #64
New England Unit
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 02:58 AM
|
#422
|
Just a member
1978 28' Argosy 28
Lutz
, Florida
Join Date: Mar 2002
Posts: 4,549
|
Quote:
Originally posted by McMullen
As I clean and fiddle with the outside of the AS I find quite a few places where someone has sealed seams with silicon seal. I for sure want to remove all of that. I hate to even think of how to get every vestage of silicon seal off.
|
If the clear coat is gone, then I have heard that spray on gasket remover and a trimmed popsicle stick are the best way to remove silicone. I my self have not done it, but Insideout here on the forum has using this method. She says it works well to remove the silcone. The gasket remover can be aquired at most autoparts stores.
Once the silicone is off the application of vulcem along the seam lines as described above is additional insurance against leaks. There is a layer of vulcem betwen the panels placed there at assembly. The sealing of the seam is to ensure that if there was any gap or seperation since the unit was built, you will stopwater from penatrating.
Many times owners cannot find a leak and just start sealing everything whit whatever they can get at Home Depot This leads to Airstreams with silicone on every seam and the leak is still there. The silcone also will not stay stuck to the skin, so even if it fixed the leak it will eventully fail
__________________
Brett G
WBCCI #5501 AIR # 49
-------------------------
1978 Argosy 28 foot Motorhome
Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something. -- Plato
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 07:27 AM
|
#423
|
Rivet Master
Commercial Member
1968 17' Caravel
2005 30' Safari
Somewhere
, roaming America
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,095
|
McMullen, another way to use Vulkem (instead of Parbond) to seam roof seams without a syringe is to put a piece of blue painter's masking tape along both sides of the seam. Leave a 1/16" gap and apply the Vulkem. Then smear it into the seam well with a wet finger. Release the tape, and voila! perfect sealed seams.
I did this last weekend. Took only a few hours to do the whole Caravel and the result is nearly invisible.
--RL
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 08:28 AM
|
#424
|
2 Rivet Member
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 67
|
Thank You all . You have answered my ?s extremely well. I live a lot of my life in the Marine world. so much of each year is spent working and playing on my sailboat. It surprises Me that none of you use 5200. Thats the sealant of choice in the Marine world. But I guess a differant sealant for a differant aplication. I will buy theVulkem for the seams and the Silkaflex for the vents, hatches and decklites. Thanks Mac
__________________
Mac
Eschew Obfuscation
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 09:07 AM
|
#425
|
Patriotic
1973 23' Safari
North of Boston
, Massachusetts
Join Date: May 2002
Posts: 4,546
|
well, if your airstream is made of wood or fiberglass, then perhaps that would be a better choice If your boat is made from alluminum...maybe you're on to something!
consider "parr bond" for the small seams, too. it comes out of the tube in almost liquid form, and flows into those really tight gaps well. Use the Vulkem for the wider gaps (>1/8th inch) like over the windows, and the vent gaskets, etc.
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 09:34 AM
|
#426
|
Rivet Master
Commercial Member
1968 17' Caravel
2005 30' Safari
Somewhere
, roaming America
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,095
|
I should mention that the only reason I used Vulkem other than Parbond was that my seams are uneven. At most points the seams are tight but occasionally they gap up to 3/16". I attribute this to wear & tear over the past 38 years. Anyway, it was easier to just do the Vulkem/tape technique for a whole seam than keep switching between Parbond and Vulkem depending on the width of the gap. This is probably a vintage issue.
Since this was originally a polishing thread I should also point out that I expect to re-do the roof seams once polishing is done. I don't expect the thin bead of Vulkem to survive the polishing process, whereas a bit of Parbond might seep in enough (?) to avoid the buffer.
-- RL
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 09:51 AM
|
#427
|
Patriotic
1973 23' Safari
North of Boston
, Massachusetts
Join Date: May 2002
Posts: 4,546
|
yeah, the parr bond almost disappears into the seam. I did the seams on my endcaps a couple months ago, and its hard to tell that it was done. when you apply it, it looks like you've put a bead along the joint. But the next morning...its gone.
did you see the "Hands on History" thing about building airstreams? I couldn't believe how thick they layed on the vulkem on the inside of the shell. it was like "plastered" on there. real heavy and messy. but it all gets covered up by the interior skin, so "no big whoop".
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 12:31 PM
|
#428
|
a.k.a. Ambassador Tim
1960 28' Ambassador
Northern
, California
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,921
|
Sealing seams....
I find this quite interesting. Are you all saying that you mask both sides of a seam where the aluminum meets and put vulkem across the seam. So when you remove the tape instead of the clean look of the metal seam, you see a bead of vulkem running the side of the trailer?
That does not sound like it would look very good.
As far a polishing off vulkem it is VERY difficult. When I first got the trailer to try and seal stuff up, I put vulkem over the top half of every marker light. Big mistake. For one it was very difficult to get off. And it looked awful.
When I pulled off the original marker light, there was no sign of sealent anywhere on it from the factory. The wire came through the skin via a rubber gromet, but no sealant of any kind.
So, when I put my new markers on, I put a small amout of gutter seal that was recommened here before, under the light and just around the tops of the screw and wire holes. With the lights mounted you cannot see any sealant. Much nicer look.
I could not imagine having vulkem running across all the seams of the trailer. Roof would be ok, but nothing else.
One tip though, don't put vulkem on anything until after you compounded the trailer, if your polishing it. Because the mess of compounded turns the vulkem black with oxidation.
As a side note, watching the vintage DVD shows an airstream being put together. They show the INSIDE of the seams being sprayed with some heavy duty sealant spanning about 3-4 inches across the seams. Then they show a water test spraying high speed water on the trailer and checking for leaks. Very interesting.
|
|
|
11-21-2003, 05:00 PM
|
#429
|
Rivet Master
Commercial Member
1968 17' Caravel
2005 30' Safari
Somewhere
, roaming America
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,095
|
Quote:
Are you all saying that you mask both sides of a seam where the aluminum meets and put vulkem across the seam. So when you remove the tape instead of the clean look of the metal seam, you see a bead of vulkem running the side of the trailer? That does not sound like it would look very good.
|
Actually, it looks fine. The bead is very very small (1/16" is what I aimed for). Most of the Vulkem is in the seam where you want it. It is unnoticeable at a distance of about two feet.
I only Vulkem'd the roof seams and those seams along the front and rear that were likely to leak (gapped open). A tiny bit of barely visible Vulkem is greatly preferable to the sight of water drops running down my walls, which is what I had before!
-- RL
|
|
|
12-24-2003, 07:51 PM
|
#430
|
Rivet Master
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
|
Update
Quote:
53 you decided to come up with an overview of the process ???
|
As some of you may remember, we started this project for several reasons..
1. To build a repository of information.
2. To avoid the same mistakes.
3. Just in case, this forum should ever go by way of:
The Bit bucket~!!
If you don't know what that means, PM me and, I'll clue you in~
Progress report:
To date, the entire thread has been copied and printed out.
A outline has been generated with a mission statement.
Credit will be given as noted unless otherwise contacted.
The good, bad and ugly will be included, along with pictures.
Copies? Yes, there will be copies given to a selected few.
that's it for now.
Happy Holidays wishes to one and all
ciao
__________________
WBCCI 5292 AIR 807
NEU #64
New England Unit
|
|
|
12-24-2003, 11:14 PM
|
#431
|
a.k.a. Ambassador Tim
1960 28' Ambassador
Northern
, California
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,921
|
Sounds like a good start.
How do you plan on distributing the information once its compiled?
One idea I had was to make it into an ebook. Like this guy.
Of course he charges for his, but that's an option as well
|
|
|
12-25-2003, 01:09 AM
|
#432
|
Rivet Master
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
|
kewl~
Safari Tim
That's an interesting thought..
Actually, I was thinking of giving a free copy to those who had polished their unit (like yourself) and, were major contributors to the thread.
Sell copies to everyone else who wanted to buy one.
A small percentage of the monies collected would go to the forum to help defray expenses..Andy's choice..
Perhaps even pay for food/drinks at a future "forum rally"...lol
Any thoughts?
Happy Holidays`!
ciao
__________________
WBCCI 5292 AIR 807
NEU #64
New England Unit
|
|
|
12-25-2003, 06:31 AM
|
#433
|
Rivet Master
1969 31' Sovereign
Broken Arrow
, Oklahoma
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,455
|
BOOK
Great idea Vern if you need any help let me know.
I will be checking the Stream this next week to see how the Turtel Wax held up aginst the water spots. Will post results.
Garry
|
|
|
12-25-2003, 06:36 PM
|
#434
|
Rivet Master
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
|
Book?
Garry
We'll all be waiting to hear from you..Hope that you have a safe trip down..Speaking of which, if things ever slow down here abit, I'm going to sneak in a trip down to the Beach..
Like you, I miss my A/S...
Book...I saw that..you shy devil..lmao
ciao
__________________
WBCCI 5292 AIR 807
NEU #64
New England Unit
|
|
|
12-27-2003, 07:45 PM
|
#435
|
Rivet Master
1969 31' Sovereign
Broken Arrow
, Oklahoma
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,455
|
Looking GOOD
I finally got to check out the Stream after three months of being away and have to give Turtle Wax good marks. There were water spots and water tracks but they wiped off with no problem. It needs a bath real bad but will wait for spring when I do some more polishing. Also I replaced the vent gaskets and checked the wheels and brakes, found the magnets are worn to the screws so they will be replaced when I install the new axles, bearings and other stuff look good. I hope to take before and after pictures of the axle replacement and post on another thread.
Sure makes me want to hook up and go somewhere, "anywhere" just so I can take the Stream with me but alas I will have to head back to OK and be satisfied with dreaming of camping this coming spring.
THINK SPRING !!!!!!!!
Garry
|
|
|
12-28-2003, 04:35 PM
|
#436
|
Rivet Master
1966 26' Overlander
Woodstock
, Georgia
Join Date: Feb 2002
Posts: 8,525
|
I too used the blue masking tape, when I Vulkem sealed above my motorhome windows, and around the door. It worked well for me.
Also in another thread we mentioned using "Liquid Glass" sealant/polish as a final coat. I put mine on in the summer, and it is still looking quite shiny over the clear coat, after month out in the weather. I do have a camopy over the top, but the rest has been exposed for four months or so, and still shiny. A quick rinse off and the AS looks great. It was 17 bucks for the can at Pep Boys, but the one can did my 28 footer with 1/4 can left to spare.
|
|
|
12-30-2003, 07:28 AM
|
#437
|
2 Rivet Member
1975 27' Overlander
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 27
|
To 53 flying cloud
I am highly impressed with your work.
Could you answer a couple of questions for me.
1. what is this cyclo you speak of.
2. what are the products that helped you.
3. where did you get them.
4. what is the cost of the products.
I am in Canada and as yet have not found anything that is for aluminum.I can't beleive the differants you have made on your unit.
Thanks. Wolf
|
|
|
12-30-2003, 08:50 AM
|
#438
|
Rivet Master
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
|
Thanks`
Wolf.. perfectpolish
Quote:
Could you answer a couple of questions for me.
|
Quote:
1. what is this cyclo you speak of.
|
It's a very well made and durable polisher
Quote:
2. what are the products that helped you.
|
All 4 grades of Nuvite, plus..you need to really read thru the thread to pick up the many excellent tips from all of the other guys on here that polished their units as well..
Quote:
3. where did you get them.
|
Check out the link above..
Quote:
4. what is the cost of the products.
|
That depends on what all you want. In my case..I order multi of accessories such as bonnets, polishing compounds, etc.
Again, for pricing, it's best to call "Tom" at perfectpolish and, get a quote from him..
Good luck to you and, looking forward to your reports on the project once you get it underway`!!
ciao
__________________
WBCCI 5292 AIR 807
NEU #64
New England Unit
|
|
|
12-30-2003, 08:55 AM
|
#439
|
2 Rivet Member
1975 27' Overlander
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 27
|
Thanks!
Much appreciated, and I will keep updating with my progress.
Must also get a digital camera for uploading some pics, unfortunately I didn't get any "before" shots of the interior, now that was quite a sight!
Wolf
|
|
|
01-01-2004, 06:54 PM
|
#440
|
Rivet Master
1984 29' Sovereign
Savannah
, Missouri
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,478
|
Looking for...
Wolf,
Whenever you can post some pictures..I know we're all looking forward to that`!!
Again, good luck on your project..
It takes a small amount of courage to get something like that underway~!
Like one of the guy mention before.."Once you start..there's no turning back.."
The end results will be well worth it~!!
ciao
__________________
WBCCI 5292 AIR 807
NEU #64
New England Unit
|
|
|
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
|
|
Thread Tools |
Search this Thread |
|
|
Display Modes |
Linear Mode
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Recent Discussions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|