New endcap crack June 30, 2024, 02:04:56 pm Found a pair of endcap cracks a couple days ago. Read up on options in the companion.Applied packing tape as a temporary seal for the next few weeks until I can source some 5200 (for the larger crack) and probably just some Eternabond for the small hairline, planning on covering 5200 with 3M Scotchgard Clear Paint Protection Bulk Film.Since 5200 come in black and white, is it a fool’s errand attempting to mix the two to approximate the grey of the paint, before applying? Otherwise I’ll probably use just black.
Re: New endcap crack Reply #1 – June 30, 2024, 02:53:56 pm I was under the impression that endcap cracks don’t happen often on the newer rigs. But it sounds like you’re quite familiar with them and the solution. Having box tape at the ready until you’ve got the fix handy is a great idea.
Re: New endcap crack Reply #2 – June 30, 2024, 03:52:16 pm Quote from: rickj - June 30, 2024, 02:53:56 pmI was under the impression that endcap cracks don’t happen often on the newer rigs. But it sounds like you’re quite familiar with them and the solution. Having box tape at the ready until you’ve got the fix handy is a great idea.Cracks happen on rigs of all ages where the stresses of expansion, contraction, and from being tweaked into place during construction. Many rigs came from the Factory with randomly located screws holding an uncooperative cap in place.The cracks usually continue to move after applying sealant, the best solution, IMO, is to use a clear exterior tape, such as the 3M Scotchgard Clear Paint Protection Bulk Film Dave mentioned to cover the crack. Adding sealant under the tape isn't a bad idea. Eternabond Tape can be used on the white sections of caps.The tape remains flexible and will give with movement. In the long run, any tape will eventually give way from the repeated movement, be prepared to reapply new tape in the future years.Larry 4 Likes