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Topic: A/C cover reinforcement (Read 383 times) previous topic - next topic

A/C cover reinforcement

After reading several posts (Roger's Post post and GleamB's Post and others)  about reinforcing  the A/C cover/shroud I inspected ours and found them to be in need of attention.  Both A/Cs are the originals as are the covers.  There are significant cracks at each screw and only four screws per cover.  I will be adding several more screws.
 
My plan is to reinforce the front lip using sheet aluminum bent into a U shape so it wraps around to the back side.  Made relief cuts to form it to the curve on the front.

I intend to use double sided tape like 3M 4910 VHB to adhere the aluminum to the shroud but open to recommendations since 3M 4910 is only good down to 50F.  Are there other VHB tapes that are more appropriate or should I be using something else?



40ft 1997 U320

Re: A/C cover reinforcement

Reply #1 –
Quote from: DayDreamer –
After reading several posts (Roger's Post post and GleamB's Post and others)  about reinforcing  the A/C cover/shroud I inspected ours and found them to be in need of attention.  Both A/Cs are the originals as are the covers.  There are significant cracks at each screw and only four screws per cover.  I will be adding several more screws.
 
My plan is to reinforce the front lip using sheet aluminum bent into a U shape so it wraps around to the back side.  Made relief cuts to form it to the curve on the front.

I intend to use double sided tape like 3M 4910 VHB to adhere the aluminum to the shroud but open to recommendations since 3M 4910 is only good down to 50F.  Are there other VHB tapes that are more appropriate or should I be using something else?
Rivets.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: A/C cover reinforcement

Reply #2 –
I just wrapped mine with EternaBond tape inside and out and put the screws through.  Has held for 4-5 years so far.  Make sure you use a roller on the tape to get a good bond.

Rich
Rich and Peggy Bowman
2002 U270 3610 WTFS, build #5939--"Freedom"
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit 4xe
SMI AirForceOne brake system
PakCanoe 15

Re: A/C cover reinforcement

Reply #3 –

I have been using this VHB tape with great performance on solar panels and other applications. 
Amazon.com: 3M VHB Heavy Duty Mounting Tape 5952 Black, 3/4 in x 15 yd 45...

Be sure to use the 3M primer/adhesion enhancer
Amazon.com: 3M 111 Clear Tape Primer - Liquid Bottle - For Use With 3M VHB...

Works best if you can clamp it over night.

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
Roger Engdahl and Susan Green
2001 U320 3610 #5879 (Home2) - 2014 Jeep Cherokee or 2018 F150
Hastings, MN