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gwsullivan · 08-28-2002, 12:40 PM

I have found several threads addressing the installation of Fantastic fans but I can not find any information on the type of sealer they used. Vulkum, Silicone or some other product?
Thanks in advance for any information.

53flyingcloud · 08-28-2002, 01:56 PM

Jerry,
The sealer to use is: SIKAFLEX, Part #360180 from the A/S factory, cost is $8.15
Good luck
Vern

Kirby Stone · 08-28-2002, 05:19 PM

I have used Vulkhem for many years on my Airstream, and around the house.

It lasts extremely well, it sticks better than any silacone I have ever used.

A trick is to use a dishwashing soap and water mixture to
smooth the surface with your finger, it also causes the caulk
to "skin over quicker".

Also, once opened the tube will cure in a few weeks. To prevent this, put it in a sealed kitchen bag (I double bag mine) and then store it in a freezer, it will last for years this way. Just thaw it by
letting it sit out overnight in the sealed bag.

K L Stone

53flyingcloud · 08-28-2002, 05:59 PM

"I have found several threads addressing the installation of Fantastic fans but I can not find any information on the type of sealer they used. Vulkum, Silicone or some other product?
Thanks in advance for any information."

Your 'original question' adressed the seal used in the installation of 'Fantastic Fan'. Since I had just had two Fantastic Fans installed at the A/S Factory, I wanted to share with you the "correct" sealer info you requested.
It appears to have been a waste of time.

BobbyW · 08-28-2002, 08:08 PM

gwsullivan:

Never use Silicon based products on aluminum. It will turn a real nasty grey and eventually fall off, if you are lucky.

-BobbyWright

TheBigRedTruck · 08-28-2002, 10:03 PM

SikaFlex for gaps and fittings?????????? Help me out need more intell on the SikaFlex!!!!!!!

Charcigar · 08-29-2002, 08:23 AM

I used Sikaflex for areas on my trailer above my windows....i.e. rooftop vents;pipe vents etc.It's a lot thicker and stickier to use than Vulkem but I have been told it holds up for ages.I would not use it for skin panel seams or tiny areas.....Vulkem or Parbond worked much better for me in those applications....but I recommend Sikaflex for bigger gaps that need caulking,especially on your roof.

TheBigRedTruck · 08-29-2002, 01:09 PM

Ok, but where do i find some!!!!!!!!

Charcigar · 08-29-2002, 02:52 PM

The product is called "Sikaflex 227".It comes in a few colors.....clearly the "aluminum grey" being the one for us Airstreamers to use.

I purchased mine from:

http://www.cascadeaqua.com/index.html

I am in Canada,and this is a Canadian company.For a US supplier,I would do a search or go to :

www.sika.com

Should be able to locate some near you.

InsideOut · 08-29-2002, 02:58 PM

The second post (by Towner7) in this thread states that it's available from the Airstream Factory...thanks Vern ~

Shari

53flyingcloud · 08-29-2002, 04:25 PM

Shari,
You're very welcome...

TheBigRedTruck · 08-29-2002, 10:51 PM

DAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!! I read all the posts, But was asking if any one had found it some wear other then" Airstream"

InsideOut · 08-29-2002, 11:46 PM

Sorry DaPlumber ~ I certainly didn't mean to offend you...I just thought you might have overlooked the earlier post...

Shari

TheBigRedTruck · 08-30-2002, 12:00 AM

"InsideOut" Its a Airstream thing!!!!!!!! Is AOK... You did not offend me. LOL

gwsullivan · 09-01-2002, 11:40 AM

towner7 (Vern), your advice did not go unnoticed. I have been 'off the net' for a few days. Thanks to all who answered. I will attempt to contact the factory next week and order some sikaflex.

ALANSD · 09-01-2002, 03:38 PM

thanks for the info y'all. I used Vulkum and also Dupont Aluminum sealant from Home Depot, and both went well and look good.
The aluminum sealant shines and blends well. The idea above for saving the vulkum in the freezer is a good one...thanks, and also I used mineral spirits to wipe down the vulkum as I put it on, but the dishwash liquid idea would be a great one to try next time- much less worrisome I bet.

Trotter · 09-12-2002, 02:26 PM

I need to remove my fantastic fan annd intend to replace the current silicon with vulken. Any suggestions for removing the old silicon? What breaks it down?

Thanks!

53flyingcloud · 09-12-2002, 02:33 PM

I've used alcohol with the greatest of ease...Plus an old toothbrush to help "get at it"..The main thing is to get all of the old silicone up as Vuklum will not stick well to it..
I'd recommend keepin lots of clean rags handy..
ciao

otha1 · 09-25-2002, 05:33 PM

Sikaflex is commonly used in the marine world, so if you have a marine store or boatyard handy you might look there.

Dabler · 11-10-2002, 04:31 PM

For what it's worth, I spotted the following on another website.

AIRSTREAM INC.
We use and sell Vulkem 616/631 sealant, only. We have it available in both gray and black. We do not recommend any other sealant for the exterior shell other than Parr Bond, or Sikoflex.
SOURCE: Airstream Service and Parts Department

And here's a link for more information:

http://www.airstreamdreams.com/generic.html?pid=29

Duane Abler