Can you help identify the issues in these pics?

[Ruffn It]

Hi there AirPeeps,

Just got the 2012 FC out of hock for the season and have found these 3 issues. I think I've already found discussions / suggestions for the peeling trim. So how about the remaining two?

The spot on the side is superficial - but (being relatively new to exterior care) can you tell me what the nature of this damage is - and what needs to be done to protect if not completely repair it?

The spot under the awning is the same on both sides. It's like there's a bubble with black spots underneath. In terms of how these panels are made, what would that top layer be (i.e. what's the nature of the bubble)? And again, what could/ should I do about it?

[dznf0g]

Yes, Yes and no clue!

1) is just where water and mildew has gotten under the protective tape film for the awning roller

2) Very common and continual. I replaced with a silver automotive (not chrome) molded in color molding, as the AS replacements wil just do the same thing in a couple years.

3) ???? is that on the clear coat or under it? Never seen anything like it. O has the clear peeled off? Not common, but sucks.

[Ruffn It]

Rich,

So, about that "protective tape film" ... I envision me trying to peel it up a little to clean under there and the peeling to never stop. Any suggestions for what (if anything) needs to be done to clean this up and re-seal it?

The spot on the side is from accidentally letting the ladder touch the side. So it's like a stationary scrape (if that makes sense). How would I know if it's on the clear coat or under it? I'm going to say under it or the clear coat got completely scraped off. I can feel a ridge along the outline with my finger.

Thanks,
Deb

[dznf0g]

I never have done anything with the mildew under the tape. It's on my "someday" list. There are some 3M films available to replace. I think it is due to just sloppy installation. Lifting and cleaning it will prevent it from sticking again.

If the spot is just aluminum ladder abrasion, I'd try Paint prep solution (like PrepSol brand) available at any auto store. It won't damage the clear coat.

[KJRitchie]

On the tape I would score a straight line with a sharp Xacto blade with a straight edge and peel of that end of the tape, clean and then apply some wax. I did that with the tape on my rear window awning.

If you have some automotive liquid paint scratch remover try that after washing the blemish or try Rich's suggestion.

Kelvin

[Ruffn It]

Thanks for the suggestions so far. About the blemish - does it matter that it's 6" long and 1.5" wide? Do the suggestions assume a much smaller area?

Deb

[dennis3751]

Is it an indentation (inny or outy?) If it is raised it may be transfer from softer aluminum on ladder. Might try using tooth paste on a small area in the middle to see if it clears the darker mark some.

Dennis

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by kara_t

Thanks for the suggestions so far. About the blemish - does it matter that it's 6" long and 1.5" wide? Do the suggestions assume a much smaller area?

Deb

No, but it sure looks odd.

[Jaxon]

Originally Posted by dznf0g

2) Very common and continual. I replaced with a silver automotive (not chrome) molded in color molding, as the AS replacements wil just do the same thing in a couple years.

.
Where did you get your molding, dznf0g? I’m having to consider replacing mine where the plastic film over the “chrome” is starting to peel - Going to need a couple of long rolls for a 34 footer!
.

[dznf0g]

Here's the thread:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f44/...ts-110776.html

[Jaxon]

Originally Posted by dznf0g

Here's the thread:
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f44/...ts-110776.html

.
Thanks, Rich!
.

[ijustlee]

I would be VERY careful about using a sharp blade on aluminum because if you cut into the metal it can be the start of a stress crack!

[ROBERT CROSS]

Originally Posted by kara_t

Thanks for the suggestions so far. About the blemish - does it matter that it's 6" long and 1.5" wide? Do the suggestions assume a much smaller area?

Deb

Deb,

"I can feel a ridge along the outline with my finger."

I do believe you've lost the clear coat...Peeling Clearcoat, not all that un-common.

Ours......



More....


Bob

[Ruffn It]

Thanks Bob for those pics. I think that's our problem.