Warped Fuel Doors

[Thorp]

Not finding anything about this after a search, I am wondering if anyone has discovered a way to straighten out the warped fuel access doors that many Monaco coaches seem to have. I don't want to replace and repaint them.

I have been thinking to use 2 part epoxy to glue a piece of stiff aluminum cut to fit the inside of the door. Hopefully this would help the door retain its flat profile. Does this sound reasonable? Thanks in advance for thoughts/input.

[gaugeguy]

I don't have a Monaco, but gas doors are all very close in design. I think you have a great idea. Your plan should stiffen up the door nicely and I think they make an epoxy for aluminum applications, too!
Gorilla Glue is good stuff but I don't know how one would keep it from leaking all over while it dries.
Short of new doors, I believe it would work.

[Thorp]

Gaugeguy,
Thanks for the reply. I'll research epoxy for aluminum and give it a try.

[Arch Hoagland]

Hmmm. Now that you mention it my Monaco fuel door is a little bit on the flimsy side but not to the point where I have to fix it.

Your idea sounds good provided the brace doesn't prevent the door from closing all the way.

[Radarman]

Here's what I did:






You can use thick bars of Aluminum/Steel/etc. slightly bent in middle. Drilled 2 holes and mounted with machine screws/washers/nuts. As screws tighten, door is warped back the correct direction. Be careful to position bars and have cut to correct size so door will still open/close correctly and key lock works correctly (see picture). Does it solve problem 100%= No, but much improved. Hope this idea helps.

[Thorp]

Radarman,
Thanks for the pics. I think the stainless screws look good. Rather than using a thick piece of aluminum almost as big as the door, I think the narrow strip of steel is better. I'll post pics of my results.