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RoadTrip2084 · 09-23-2021, 02:01 PM

Hi all, my new-to-me 1997 Monaco Dynasty has a section below the upper rear corner on the passenger's side where it appears to be lifting off of its channel.

In better light I can see that the underlying metal strip with the screw going through it appears to be intact, and just the channel/beltline is lifting away from that.

What is the best way to re-attach this section? Ideally I'd like to avoid completely removing the beltline as most of it is in good shape and I was looking to just touch up the sections that needed it with ProFlex prior to winter storage.

Ray,IN · 09-23-2021, 04:52 PM

My opinion, do it right the first time. It is already loosening, patching the gap might stop winter rain/snow/sleet but then come spring you're going to have to do it right anyway.
Why chance water damage by delaying the project?

jacwjames · 09-23-2021, 06:11 PM

I just fixed a large area of delamination on the rear passenger side, it was caused by a bad seal on the beltline. The beltline actually fits tightly (snaps) onto an aluminum extrusion which is held onto the side with screws

From the looks of the photo my guess is that the screws that hold the aluminum extrusion on have come loose, probably rusted off.

I ended removing the belt line from above the rear window all the way around to in front of the battery box. Then removed the aluminum extrusion all together, it comes in pieces at the curves, and ended up cutting it in front of the battery box.

When I was done fixing the delamination area I reattached the aluminum pieces using stainless steel rivet. The snapped the beltline back and then resealing with Geoflex.

Fix it right now or you will be sorry.

RoadTrip2084 · 10-08-2021, 03:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ray,IN

My opinion, do it right the first time. It is already loosening, patching the gap might stop winter rain/snow/sleet but then come spring you're going to have to do it right anyway.
Why chance water damage by delaying the project?

Well I don't have access to an indoor shop and up here it's very quickly turning to cool temps. So I'm not confident in starting a larger project with the weather window I have.

I ended up resealing the 3/4 corners that were loose and a few small sections on the top of the beltline where the previous sealant was failing. It is clear that the metal band has come up on at least 2 of the corners.

I am looking at options to have this repaired at a shop, or possibly will tackle it myself in the spring.

DiplomatDon · 10-09-2021, 06:39 PM

Roadtrip, I had an issue with the lower beltline above the compartment doors coming loose on my former 2001 Diplomat. Actually quite simple repair. Removed the vinyl cap over the aluminum extrusion and replaced loose and rusted screws. Used the same locations for screws I could remove as they usually just had the threads rusted away. For the ones that broke I drilled pilot hole close by and replaced with new stainless self tapping screws I got from Fastenal, which I see you have a location in Airdrie. Good luck, Don.