Putty or caulk

Deb B · 06-17-2008, 03:36 PM

I just noticed today that the original putty along the side edges of the front corners are cracking and deteriorating. (fiberglass sided) I know it won't be long before alot more of it will need to be done. I went to Camping World to get more putty but was told it was best just to caulk it. What do you think is best? I don't want to learn from a bad decision but from the experts here on the forum!

Thanks in advance,

Deb

rich2500 · 06-17-2008, 09:02 PM

I don't by any means consider myself an expert,but I will tell you that one of the very first things I done to my sunline after we got it was to go around and remove all that putty and replace it with urethane seam sealer/adhesive

**JohnB** · 06-17-2008, 10:18 PM

Rich

Do you have a brand/type?

Interested as some of mine is starting to get in need of filling in.

I have used Dicro in a few small spots but do not know about long lengths of it or on vertical surfaces.

Thanks

rich2500 · 06-18-2008, 06:26 AM

here is what I use John
http://products3.3m.com/catalog/us/e...er/output_html
I get it at home depot if I remember correctly it's like $10.00 a tube

Lode · 06-18-2008, 11:53 AM

I've used a marine sealant made by 3M with a lot of success... They make several grades/curing speeds.

It used to be available at my local Walmart until they cut back on their shelf space dedicated to boating supplies but you might find it in yours. The stuff is made to hold a seal under water so it's good stuff... usually runs around $9 for about a toothpaste tube of it. Also comes in gun sized tubes. It's a little tougher to remove compared to other sealants but imho, that's a good thing.

If I'm looking for something I suspect I might have to tear apart again soon I use Liquid Nails Clear Seal.

Is my recollection correct that silicone based sealants affect krystal kote negatively?

Take care,
Lode

henryj · 06-18-2008, 12:09 PM

Really like that 2363, almost bought an Al one until Karen saw the fiberglass 2499 at another dealer.

Our corner trim has exactly the same symptoms you describe. I think it is caused by excess putty tape being squeezed out of the seam and then weathering. I doubt very much that the cracks extend underneath where the tape is compressed. Several people here have replaced roof vents and could maybe comment on the condition of the putty tape that is also used under the vent.

Putty tape is used in assembly, not after the fact, which is why CW probably recommended just caulking it. They sell it because you would use it under a new roof vent etc.

RV dealers sell a plastic putty tape tool, or substitue something else that is flexible plastic rather than rigid, that you can use to re-work the edge of squeezed out putty. I think I read this in Sunline's owner's manual as well.

Definitely don't remove the corner trim to replace the putty. At the most I would clean out the excess that is squeezed out on the side and run a very fine bead of clear silicone that just fills the overlap between the corner trim and the fiberglass side. So far I have just left mine as is.

Henry

Deb B · 06-18-2008, 02:56 PM

Thanks ,

I really appreciate all the advice. I guess I'm a worry wort and just need the reassurance from all you guys. I love my little Sunline and want to keep her in good repair.

Many thanks again,

Deb

**JohnB** · 06-18-2008, 11:17 PM

Lode and Rich

Thanks guys. I had not thought about the Marine grades of things. For sure the water is not going to be an issue.

Will look around and if all esle fails I can try the West Marine store we have here in town.

If you think the terms RV adds a $25 bill to something, well the words Marine add another $15 on top of it....

John

Lode · 06-19-2008, 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnB

If you think the terms RV adds a $25 bill to something, well the words Marine add another $15 on top of it

I wish it were that conservative of a mark up!!!

Once you get into engine parts that are marine only... whew! I get stuff and think... this should be gold plated and mow my grass for me too for the cost.

West Marine will definitely have what you're looking for if all else fails. They're a decent company, I'm good for about an order a year from them getting stuff for my boat.

Happy sealing.

Take care,
Jason