Phaeton Roof Recovering

[EPK]

Has anyone had their fiberglass roof recovered with a new fiberglass cap, by Tiffin?

[paz]

Are you having a problem with your roof?

Tiffin has been experiencing problems with cracking of the corner radius of some roofs. I believe you can choose to have the whole roof replaced with a thicker one or to have just the corners removed and replaced by rolled aluminum. Most posts on Tiffin RV Network that I have read, the owners with problems were choosing the aluminum corners because its quicker to do (you have to be out of your rig less time), there is less disruption to roof-mounted accessories and therefore less chance of leaking, and there are also rumors of some problems with the thicker roofs.

[Geaux Saints]

One particular year? We just bought a 2011 Phaeton 40 QTH.

Richard and Cheryl

[paz]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Geaux Saints One particular year? We just bought a 2011 Phaeton 40 QTH. Richard and Cheryl

From what I read, it is mostly in the 2007-2008 range. Don't know for sure when they went to thicker fiberglass. If the OP answers back, we can see if that's what his problem is. Maybe he just ran into a tree branch.

You could call Tiffin with your VIN and I'm sure they can tell you what thickness roof you have.

[EPK]

I have been in contact with Tiffin and recovering the roof was mentioned as a possible solution. The problem I believe is a manufacturing issue that involves the entire roof. What the best solution is for us, is yet to be determined. I am concerened about removing everything on the roof and the repainting, what effect will the increased thickness have on reconnecting the air conditioners, ECT. ECT. ECT. I will be talking to Tiffin today to further understand what can be done. This problem is not a general problem and I believe is isolated to our coach. We had it up to our selling dealer in New York and they looked at it along with every Phaeton and Bus they had on their lot 2010, 2011, and 2012's and it appears that the problem only applies to our coach. They talked to Tiffin and sent pictures, which I hope to discuss with the roof repair shop at Tiffin today.

Thanks for the responses.

[paz]

Quote:

Originally Posted by EPK I have been in contact with Tiffin and recovering the roof was mentioned as a possible solution. The problem I believe is a manufacturing issue that involves the entire roof.

What is the problem, if I may ask?

Quote:

Originally Posted by EPK ...what effect will the increased thickness have on reconnecting the air conditioners, ECT. ECT. ECT.

I may be wrong, but I think once they remove everything, they will remove and replace the old fiberglass rather than just cover it over.

Quote:

Originally Posted by EPK ...They talked to Tiffin and sent pictures, which I hope to discuss with the roof repair shop at Tiffin today...

Any chance you could post the pics of the roof from the dealer?

[Lault]

So what is going on here? What is the real problem, we would love to know.

[EPK]

The roof appears to be made up of pieces with many seams/cracks. I have attached some pictures taken when the problem was discovered during the install of roof vent covers. I do not have the dealership pictures. Trying to set up an appointment at Red bay to get it addressed. I assume the cost of the trip and lodging are out of your pocket. Tiffin has explained the process and addressed our concerns. It is something they do allot of, usually due to damage.

[paz]

EPK, thanks for posting those photos.

I've watched Tiffin assemble the roofs at the factory, and the way they explained the way they were made (in a different location) was that they are all one lay-up. The mold is as long as the longest coach (presumably the 45' Zephyr), and they just lay-up to whatever length they need (36', 40', 42', 45', etc.). The trimmed roofs are then shipped to the assembly plant.

If your coach is less than a year old, your stay at the Tiffin campground will be free. Otherwise, it will be $20 a night. Fuel and overnights en route will be at your expense.

[Lault]

Wow, that is different. and that is an 11 model ?

[rallll]

We have a 2011 40 ft Bus, bought in Jan 2011 and roof caps replaced in April 2011. They thought they had solved the problem with a new thicker Cap. When they discovered ours in Red Bay it caused a big stir (lots of suits and ties). Put aluminum caps.

[CoastieSCPO]

Wow, these roof and rail problems on all these Tiffins is distressing. I've been following the threads on this forum as well as the many entries on the Tiffin RV Network Forum. Lots of disappointed and angry owners to be certain. To see the images of the roof problems that the OP posted is upsetting and I hope that he can get it repaired to his satisfaction.

Now, I own an 04 Allegro and to date, I have not had any roof, rail or wet bay problems. Knock on wood. But the problems that other owners of newer, more expensive units are having is making me think of other manufacturers rather than Tiffin when the time comes to buy a new rig. Newmar and its different roof construction comes to mind and it hurts to think that way because I've been a Tiffin fan and owner since 1993.

[BobGed]

Roof radius rails are cracked on my 09 Phaeton. I live in Carson City, NV, and the good news is I don't have to go to Red Bay for repairs. It will be repaired under warranty by Tiffin's west coast service tech next month at a repair facility in AZ.

[Lault]

This is so wrong and should never be, but most Tiffin owners will say oh, its ok Bob will take care of it. Bull!! This Tiffin owner will not, All H### will break loose when my 11 Phaeton has roof issues.