First Time Exterior Damage to Rock Guard- Looking for Advice and Cost Estimate

[Ampman]

Replaced both of my segment protectors this past summer. Thousands of tiny dents in them. I just took each one off and drilled out all of the rivets to release the sheet from its frame. Laid perfectly flat once removed from the frame. Purchased the exact match 304 stainless sheet cut to a rectangle about one inch bigger than the old ones. Used the old ones as a pattern and cut out using air nibbler. Put back together with rivets and remounted. Looks brand new. Cost about $90 and took me four hours total. I added rock tamers to the truck before I traveled again. Very happy with the outcome. Ampman.


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[AnnArborBob]

I would definitely be more concerned with the compromised banana wrap than the rock guard. A hole like that will let a lot of water in which will damage your insulation and possible your floors. Not to mention providing easy access for rodents and snakes. I'd live with the rock guard and consider that a part of your Airstream's personality. But the banana wrap needs to be replaced ASAP.

[Ampman]

Just saw the second photo. Patch it up until you decide which way you want to go. DYI or have a pro do it. Many great options already discussed here. Temporary repairs will give you experiance and confidence for when you have future incidents out on the road far from home.

[NavyCorpsman]

The only AS I have ever seen without a dent, ding, pimple or a dimple was on the showroom floor.

[Patricia720]

Wow. I am, once again, glad that I keep an eye on this forum. My rock guard sustained similar damage from road debris and I've been wondering if I should take the Safari to a restorer or the factory. I'll be removing it and heading to a body shop...

[cwf]

Sometimes a simple fix will get you by.
This is "duct tape" zone!!!!
Tape horizontal from bottom UP. Keep lower edge of tape overlapping the previous course. Only tape up enough to seal the area.

Gorilla tape is 500 MPH stuff.. Get a cheaper one. Waxing the area where applying tape beforehand may help protect from the tape glue.

With the weather forecast the next few days you should handle soon.