Rain has done a number on the coach

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Rain has done a number on the coach

May 31, 2016, 10:21:59 am

First off, hello to everyone! The rain here in Texas over the past month has been tremendous. Last Thursday and Friday it rained 6 inches in 36 hours here at my house ( about 13 miles from FT). I have had my coach about a month, I have a carport ordered but of course the carport was not up in time to protect the coach from the rain so the poor girl had to sit exposed...broke my heart. Anyway to my point....the laminate under the slide, drivers side, has moved away from the frame enough so that the rain got under the laminate and left a nice PURPLE stain all down the bay door underneath....I got some rubbing compound (Mothers...awesome) and after an hour of hard rubbing the stain is gone. Question: I truly do not believe there is anything that can be done to correct the approx. 3 inch area where the laminate has bowed out.... I am going to let it dry and then seal both top and bottom edges with silicone...other than that I would appreciate any opinions.
Secondly the rain as it fell ran through the hinges of all the bay doors and left tell tale black marks in the same pattern as the hinges....I know how to get rid of the marks but I would like opinions on how to prevent this staining in the future...I am thinking at the very least I need to hit the hinges with some grease or wd40 or something similar to get any remaining moisture out ASAP.
Lastly...the coach needs a good compounding, wax and seal job....what do y'all do. I honestly do not have the time or enough MOTRIN on hand to do that much work, I am strongly considering taking the coach to Precision Auto in Nacogdoches...anyone have and experience with them?
Like the man said, " even the worst day in a motorhome beats putting shingles on an old roof"....don't see the analogy but it sounded cool!
Thanks everyone you're awesome.
Dave E.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #1 – May 31, 2016, 11:16:53 am

Quote from: dke1955 – May 31, 2016, 10:21:59 am

Lastly...the coach needs a good compounding, wax and seal job....what do y'all do. I honestly do not have the time or enough MOTRIN on hand to do that much work, I am strongly considering taking the coach to Precision Auto in Nacogdoches...anyone have and experience with them?

Howdy Dave,
Sorry for all your rain connected problems. We have used Precision for a "compounding, wax and seal job" and was very pleased with their work. We have a Level 1 upgrade (painted graphics) from Xtreme, and after 6 years of full time use, the coach really needed some attention. Ryan's crew from Precision had the coach looking like new. Also, over the years, had the coach washed and waxed at Precision a couple of times, and again, happy with the results.
Good Luck, Dave A

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #2 – May 31, 2016, 11:28:09 am

Quote from: dke1955 – May 31, 2016, 10:21:59 am

Question: I truly do not believe there is anything that can be done to correct the approx. 3 inch area where the laminate has bowed out...

Welcome to the group, Dave!

Do not give up hope! Delamination is not the end of the world. Other Forum members have had to deal with this problem. It can be repaired. If you will search the term "delamination" with the Forum search tool, you will find a number of threads on that subject. You will see that the key is to find a repair shop that is experienced in this area. Xtreme in NAC will probably be the first recommendation you hear.

Xtreme Paint & Graphics

Until you can get the area repaired, try to keep any more moisture from getting into the wall. Do whatever it takes to plug up the gap. The bigger the area of separation, the more expensive it will be to fix. Try to get it taken care of ASAP. Here is one thread on the subject:

Delamination?

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #3 – May 31, 2016, 12:38:30 pm

Hi Dave -

When we were at MOT over a year ago we had a small delam that they noticed under our BR slide. They were replacing the BR slide bladder. They advised that they had a product that they could "squirt" in apply pressure to the side wall and that would correct the delam. Might try giving them a call.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #4 – May 31, 2016, 02:04:28 pm

Dave

Three days at Precision Auto, made our 16 year old coach look great.
We used the complimentary FHU's every night.
Though, one coach buck could probably buy a lot of Motrin. YMMV I would do it again to rid the surface of oxidation. Now using aircraft wash and wax, sold at MOT and I'm sure on line.
Ed

Sent from my IPhone

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #5 – May 31, 2016, 02:56:59 pm

Another thumbs up on Precision, having a clean smooth finish helps with the streaks. Most of these are caused organic bits on the roof and everywhere they can accumulate. We parked under oak trees for a while, when it rained we had black streaks down the side of the coach. Nothing but time and sun got rid of them. Don't panic. Wash and dry and let the sun and some time go by.

When the guy at Precision is done you will be smiling. They even cleaned the insides of the bay doors and painted the insides of the wheel wells. He cleaned the bay door latch handles with a toothbrush to get the polishing compound out of the grooves. Thre days. He got a nice tip from me.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #6 – May 31, 2016, 03:44:24 pm

Yup...get the delamination repaired at Xtreme. When done go to Precision for the full deal compound & wax. You will love the results.

It sounds like the PO used some sort of lube that is causing the streaking on these hinges. Forest is geting old and has never had that issue.

Have a Good & enjoyable ownership experience with your Foretravel.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #7 – May 31, 2016, 09:07:00 pm

I would not use silicone for temporary waterproofing. Nothing sticks to silicone except more silicone and as you probably know, "de-siliconing" is arduous and can rarely be done 100%. I assume MOT will use some sort of epoxy to repair the delamination. It will not achieve a good bond if there is silicone residue present. I would use a high quality (3M) foil tape pressed down with a bondo spreader. This will keep future moisture out until a proper repair can be made.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #8 – May 31, 2016, 09:49:21 pm

This is the first I have heard of Precision Auto. Sounds like they detail and wax coaches. Where are they located and what all do they do?

Thanks,

Roy

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #9 – May 31, 2016, 10:02:43 pm

Precision is located on the main drag in Nac. Don't know the exact address, but it's easy to find. They do all the exterior detailing for FOT.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #10 – May 31, 2016, 10:05:18 pm

Precision Auto Clean - Auto Detailing | Nacogdoches, TX

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #11 – May 31, 2016, 10:07:40 pm

Thanks Peter, I'll added they to our list of good vendors in NAC.

Roy

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #12 – May 31, 2016, 10:11:06 pm

Precision is located on University Drive.....a major street that is east of the main drag (north street)

It is owned by the Grimmets (at first the parents of the now owner, Rod and Brenda Grimmett) and I recommend that you discuss with the manager who will do what work. I am sure several can do many things but when it comes to buffing, there is or has been one particular person that the now owner (Rod's son) has liked to do that job.

Very good, local business, honest folks and Rod and Brenda has a Foretravel. They are still in the Precision building, running another business that they still own.

Call ahead for appointment.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #13 – May 31, 2016, 10:39:37 pm

Quote from: Jet Doc – May 31, 2016, 09:07:00 pm

I would not use silicone for temporary waterproofing. Nothing sticks to silicone except more silicone and as you probably know, "de-siliconing" is arduous and can rarely be done 100%. I assume MOT will use some sort of epoxy to repair the delamination. It will not achieve a good bond if there is silicone residue present. I would use a high quality (3M) foil tape pressed down with a bondo spreader. This will keep future moisture out until a proper repair can be made.

GEOCEL. Similar to silicone only it sticks!

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #14 – June 01, 2016, 12:11:10 am

We have also had a wonderful exterior job done on our coach by Precision. I would totally go to Xtreme for the delam repair ... they know every layer and every glue that was ever used on a coach. My favorite for any kind of hinges or water repellant for something like a hinge would be CorrosionX. If you have access to a dehumidifier, you might try running it inside the coach or the bays for a day or two to help dry everything out.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #15 – June 01, 2016, 07:45:52 am

Quote from: Jet Doc – May 31, 2016, 09:07:00 pm

I would not use silicone for temporary waterproofing. Nothing sticks to silicone except more silicone and as you probably know, "de-siliconing" is arduous and can rarely be done 100%. I assume MOT will use some sort of epoxy to repair the delamination. It will not achieve a good bond if there is silicone residue present. I would use a high quality (3M) foil tape pressed down with a bondo spreader. This will keep future moisture out until a proper repair can be made.

I thought the same thing about the silicone but Xtreme suggested I use it to keep water out of my delam while waiting for an appointment date four months later.

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #16 – June 01, 2016, 10:57:30 am

You just can't beat the folks on this forum that have "been there done that"! You all continue to amaze, but it needs to be said it would be very easy to just read a post, move on, not take the time, and let someone else reply..but that is obviously NOT THE CASE with this forum. I will continue to thank each and everyone of you probably to the point of sounding a bit sappy, but this I feel is the least I can do for those who have taken THEIR TIME to respond.
I am blessed to live such a short distance from MOT, FT, Xtreme Paint, and Precision Auto, I am on my way to all 4 of these businesses, thanks to many of you, after this post. I had spoken with Precision previously and was naturally cautious but not at all now...the compound/wax is not an inexpensive proposition but I think the ol girl deserves to start off her new home with the best I can give her (I'm not rolling in it by any means). Don't know if I should go by Xtreme or not...I've seen their work...wow!!....might end up selling the John Deere for a paint job!
Thanks to everyone!

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #17 – June 01, 2016, 12:29:21 pm

Quote from: dke1955 – June 01, 2016, 10:57:30 am

I had spoken with Precision previously and was naturally cautious but not at all now...the compound/wax is not an inexpensive proposition but I think the ol girl deserves to start off her new home with the best I can give her

Oooh, if you do get the ol girl gussied up at Precision Auto, please take before and after pictures - maybe a few close ups of different places on the coach - and post the before and after pictures here for us to admire. It is always incredible to see the difference in the gelcoat after the oxidation is gone and the shine and luster is back.

What an exciting time for you!

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #18 – June 01, 2016, 05:29:21 pm

Quote from: dke1955 – June 01, 2016, 10:57:30 am

I had spoken with Precision previously and was naturally cautious but not at all now...the compound/wax is not an inexpensive proposition

Howdy Dave, You're right, its not an inexpensive proposition, but IMHO the expense is well worth it. I think you'll be surprised how great the coach will look.
Good luck, with your other issues, I second the recommendations for using Xtreme. Those guys are the best.
Dave A

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #19 – June 01, 2016, 10:34:34 pm

We had an excellent experience withe Precision. Our 98 U320 had some fiberglass damage (by others) repaired by FoT. We chose not to repaint the obsolete decal. They recommended precision for a buff out and gelcoat tretment. This photo is 4 yrs later. Ain't boastin..

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #20 – June 01, 2016, 11:28:49 pm

Quote from: Siren – June 01, 2016, 12:29:21 pm

Oooh, if you do get the ol girl gussied up at Precision Auto, please take before and after pictures - maybe a few close ups of different places on the coach - and post the before and after pictures here for us to admire. It is always incredible to see the difference in the gelcoat after the oxidation is gone and the shine and luster is back.

What an exciting time for you!

WILL DO!

Re: Rain has done a number on the coach

Reply #21 – June 01, 2016, 11:33:24 pm

Quote from: Don Hays – June 01, 2016, 10:34:34 pm

We had an excellent experience withe Precision. Our 98 U320 had some fiberglass damage (by others) repaired by FoT. We chose not to repaint the obsolete decal. They recommended precision for a buff out and gelcoat tretment. This photo is 4 yrs later. Ain't boastin..

WOW...she is impressive...I like the colors!....the wax job is still visible 4 years later...nice coach!

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