Outer side Seams

Just to followup on repair...

 

After removing several track screws along lower front curbside it was apparent that my leak came from the lower corner seam separation and insufficient sealing along bottom front edge (underneath).

I removed a portion or the dinette frame, carefully removed the trim and cut out a portion of the forward ceiling panel. The insulation was damp, as was the framing along bottom and wall edge. I had to dig out the panel edge between outer front and sidewall - that was a lengthy and delicate process, but I got it cleaned up nicely. I then placed a small space heater to dry everything out real well for a few days. Then I bleached the entire front corner with a mild solution of bleach just to prevent any mold growth. When it was good and dried again, I brushed on a fair amount or wood hardener over the framing and along the wall edge followed by a liberal coating of Epoxy  - I wanted a good base to screw outside track into.

I glued some tabs on the existing panel to support panel patch, packed the opening with new insulation and attached the panel patch with glue and staples (narrow gauge crown). I taped the seam with 6" matching seam tape and replace the corner "gimp" trim with new. Used a couple of pocket screws to reassemble the dinette frame, used more seam tape to cover and create new trim and put everything back together. I know that it is put back together better than it was built and is a virtually invisible repair.

The next step was prevention. I replaced the keder track screws with longer stainless and epoxy coated equivalents. Did same along bottom, adding a couple the weren't there in bottom corner.

 I also "painted" quite a bit of epoxy under both front corners. Along the entire front edge (under) where there is a seam, I liberally spread Sikaflex.

As soon as the monsoons stop here, I'll be re-caulking the entire Pod with Geocel ProFlex RV.

I'll also be much, much, more aware of any potential leaking issues!!

I hope that might help anyone with a similar issue and encourage you to keep up with required maintenance!!

fred