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Topic: What does a structurally sound bulkhead look like? (Read 464 times) previous topic - next topic

What does a structurally sound bulkhead look like?

I have been reading a lot of bulkheads failing posts and lots of pictures of failing bulkheads. I know I'm new here but why don't we have any pictures of structurally sound bulkheads? I think it would be really helpful for everyone on this forum. Seeing the failing bulkheads is great but seeing what they should look like is also a good idea. I know we can look for rust jacking, broken bolts and checking bolt torque specs. But it be great to see what they should look like.
Brad & Laurie

Re: What does a structurally sound bulkhead look like?

Reply #1 –
Failing bulkhead show signs of RUST JACKING.

Looking up from the ground, if the impression of the box beams in the white fiberglass floor of the basement are protruding no more at the last compartment before the bulkhead,  than further toward the middle of the coach all is likely good.

Additionally, the fiberglass underside of the basement sandwich will be completely closed at the bulkhead. If there is a gap, the gap is caused by rust jacking pushing the fiberglass downward.

Also, a torque wrench on the Rolok will tell if they are solid or have broken due to rust jacking.

Failure of the rear bulkhead is many times as common as the front, as water from the wet bay can seep into the basement sandwich.  So, on most coaches, verify that the rear bulkhead/fiberglass underside looks the same as the front.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: What does a structurally sound bulkhead look like?

Reply #2 –
The best approach is to check YOUR bulkheads front and rear. Do it once and know where you stand.
Many posts concerning bulk head issues and how to check. Outside Visual inspection is not always conclusive. You should plan on threw bolting both front and rear bulkheads regardless how the Rolox bolts look, or turn, or fail to turn and break. You can count on them failing at some point.

Bite the bullet and cut away about 12" of the fiberglass that butts up to the bulkhead steel (angle iron), remove the insulation and take a GOOD LOOK, now you will know for sure where your motorhome stands. You will need to do this to do the through bolting anyway.

Buy a sheet of FRP to replace the cutaway fiberglass and insert a new rigid insulation board. You will always be able to remove this patch to check in the future.

Be sure to support the coach at the frame before you crawl under to work. laying on your back looking up at the 30,000 pounds that will crush you is humbling, but not as much as fireman pulling your crushed body out from under.
1995 U320C SE 40'
Jeep 4x4 Commander - Limited - Hemi
"The Pack"  Yogi and Diesel our Airedales -  Charlie our Boxer/Akita mix. Gone but NEVER forgotten Jake our yellow Lab.
NRA Law Enforcement Firearms instructor - Handgun/shotgun
Regional Firearms instructor for national Armored Transp. Co.
 

Re: What does a structurally sound bulkhead look like?

Reply #3 –
Quote from: Lon and Cheryl –
Be sure to support the coach at the frame before you crawl under to work.

An excellent reminder for new owners!

Working Safely around your Foretravel
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320