cracked sidewall

[sandy1]

I have just noticed a crack in the outside wall of the coach. It starts in the lower front edge of the opening for the bedroom slide, and extends forward and down towards the floor level of the coach. At the top it is open by about 1/16 " and is currently about 2 1/4" long. It appears to go completely through gelcoat. I can insert a small wire about 1/8 to 1/4" along the length. Has anyone else had this problem or know what may be the cause.

Sandy and Debbie
2001 Alpine Coach 34 FDDS

[sandy1]

I have just noticed a crack in the outside wall of the coach. It starts in the lower front edge of the opening for the bedroom slide, and extends forward and down towards the floor level of the coach. At the top it is open by about 1/16 " and is currently about 2 1/4" long. It appears to go completely through gelcoat. I can insert a small wire about 1/8 to 1/4" along the length. Has anyone else had this problem or know what may be the cause.

Sandy and Debbie
2001 Alpine Coach 34 FDDS

[Dave Fernandez]

Hello & Welcome Sandy and Debbie:
I have a 2001 with a Bedroom Slide out which had the same type of crack which you mentioned. Someone told me the cause was a poor weld on the Aluminum frame. I do not know if that is true or not. I had it repaired/patched and the crack returned. I subsequently left it with WRV and they repaired the problem than patched and painted. I also know of other Alpines with the same problem including a 2002.

I would suggest contacting WRV and see if they will repair the problem.

[sandy1]

thanks dave

I have talked with Mark at WRV supposed to get back to me next week. Then I will see where I can go to get it repaired.

Sandy and Debi
2001 34 FDDS

[dgerstel]

Sandy and Debbie,

I talked to Mark about the same problem and had no response for months. I was told by someone in sales that I needed to talk to Dave Kaamppi.
Dave was very responsive.

Dale

[sandy1]

Dale
Thank you, I spoke with Dave today. With comments from this forum and both Mark and Dave being familar with this problem I don't think it is isolated. They were not very positive that WRV would cover any part of the repair. Dave did say that they might discount the repair if I brought the coach to them in Washington. It is a long way from So Calif., and what additional damage would be caused. I will keep you posted on the progress and if anyone has any other suggestions they are welcome.

Sandy and Debi