2002-2005 Alumascape

[Bob Harlan]

Hi All,

We are looking at these. Have concerns about the aluminum skin. My understanding, maybe faulty, the skin is bonded to aluminum wall studs. Have seen pictures on websites like RVTrader.com, RVT.com, etc where reflections of the ripples in the skin indicate the bonding is working and others where it appears the bond has at least partially failed. Sometimes it appears the skin has vertical waves i.e. bonding to studs is working. Sometimes horizontal waves suggesting bonding is working on horizontal members and not on vertical studs. Sometimes just random skin curves as if the bonding has let go randomly. Is this something to be concerned about? I don't mind the wavy look. I understand the skin expands and contracts with temperature each day. Looking for your experiences and advice.

Thanks,
Robert

[Timay]

I have a 2002 Alumascape with aluminum sides - no issues and I love the trailer!

I took a couple pics for you. One is looking down the side of the trailer, no ripples nor waves, the other picture shows the rivets that hold the side on (look closely - one row near the kitchen vent and the other row is centered on the fridge cover.)


Tim

[Bob Harlan]

Tim, thanks for the response and pix. Hadn't seen the rivets before. The horizontal strip between the rivets looks like a clamp strip to hold down the aluminum skin edges. However, there aren't any screws in the strip except at the ends. So it's a mystery. Do you know what the strip is for?

Anything I should be aware of as we look at Alumascapes?

Thanks,
Robert

[Timay]

I'm sure that strip covers the edge of the aluminum skin...it is in a track, caulked top and bottom and I gotta think it covers screws. It is pretty much a beauty strip to hide the nasty edge and screw heads.

Tim