Repairman’s Advice

[Pilothawk]

I own a Coachman Leprechaun 2004.

The awning pulled out the bottom screws. Called in the repair guy many of us use in this area. Could not find solid wood…just rotten mush.

I had repairs on the pax side rear. Had to replace a lot of wood…tail lights had leaked thru the years. Delamination has gotten bad above drivers seat.

Asked him for a referral to get repairs….he suggested not putting more money into this camper…just get rid of it at best price anyone will pay. He says putting more money into this camper will be a waste.

He’s right, but I am uncomfortable selling a problem to others…but at the same time money from this one will help me get something to replace it. Wish I could afford to donate it to the folks in western NC. Thoughts?

[kenandterry]

Originally Posted by Pilothawk

I own a Coachman Leprechaun 2004.

The awning pulled out the bottom screws. Called in the repair guy many of us use in this area. Could not find solid wood…just rotten mush.

I had repairs on the pax side rear. Had to replace a lot of wood…tail lights had leaked thru the years. Delamination has gotten bad above drivers seat.

Asked him for a referral to get repairs….he suggested not putting more money into this camper…just get rid of it at best price anyone will pay. He says putting more money into this camper will be a waste.

He’s right, but I am uncomfortable selling a problem to others…but at the same time money from this one will help me get something to replace it. Wish I could afford to donate it to the folks in western NC. Thoughts?

In comparison……how long and how much would you or people in general…..continue to put money into a 20 year old car? Everything has a price limit….based on what it cost to start with.
Just saying.

[jacwjames]

To try and properly fix might cost $$$$ if you have someone else do it.



A simple thing to try is get a two part epoxy mix, they actually make a two part with a mixing injector tip, Tractor Supply has them. You have one shot at it so I'd buy 5-6 of the product. Cut some wooden dowels about 1.5" long (you should check with a probe). You might have to drill the hole out to the size of the dowel.


Cover the area with plastic a tape off the area, protect everything because if you get any epoxy on it you won't get it off (ask me how I know).


Inject the epoxy, the more the better and once the area is full hammer the dowel into place. Let everything cure.


You should be able remount the awning.

[Gravelette]

If you sell it, advertise it truthfully. If you say up front it's not worth paying someone to repair, you will hopefully attract a buyer who is handy and wants a project. I'd probably ask $1k or so just to rule out homeless and the kind of people who would just drag it somewhere and put a tarp over it. My first trailer developed hidden rot. I had a go at repairing but soon realized I was in over my head. I ended up giving it to a friend of a friend who was able to fix it and use it happily for quite a few years.

[bigb56]

What is on the interior side of that wall? Is there any way to put a steel plate, or thick plywood, enough to span an area large enough to be secure, and thru bolt it? Even if it's in an exposed area it could be nicely trimmed out or hidden.

[RickNC]

At that age and that far gone, if it is still serviceable, I would through bolt it into the inside of the coach. Spread the load out using round aluminum external electrical box covers drilled and painted to match.