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Topic: Dried up caulking...Leak (Read 3 times) previous topic - next topic
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Dried up caulking...Leak
Yahoo Message Number: 99827
Hello, I am looking at a 1988 26.5 MB. It looks good, no signs of water damage, but the caulking along the side seams of the roof looks bad: very dry with lots of cracks.  So, I am wondering, does this guarantee that there are leaks?  Again, no sign of leaks inside, just nervous because the caulking looks so old, dry, and well, not very water resistant.  So, is it possible this rig doesn't have water damage?  It is in southern california (we don't get much rain).  Thanks for the help.

Jake
Re: Dried up caulking...Leak
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 99830
"the caulking along the side seams of the roof looks bad: very dry with lots of cracks. So, I am wondering, does this guarantee that there are leaks?"

No, but it does mean that you should inspect *very* carefully for damage caused by leaks. No stains on the ceiling or walls? That's good, but don't stop there.

1. Lift up the mattress in the overcab bed and check carefully for  evidence of leaks all around the bed. This is probably the single the  most common place for leaks in older rigs.
2. Open cabinet doors and look way back inside. Use an extra-bright  flashlight.
3. Check carefully around the bottoms of window frames.

"Evidence" doesn't just mean stains. In all the above locations, you should also:

* Feel for dampness.
* Check for mold or mildew smells.
* Push hard with a finger against paneling. If it feels spongy or soft, there's dry-rot damage due to a leak.
 And budget for enough Eternabond tape to reseal that roof, if you buy the rig! :-)

Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"
 
Re: Dried up caulking...Leak
Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 99832
Andy,
 Thanks for the help.  I inspected the rig thoroughly and didn't see any water damage. I also walked around a lot on the roof, and although I could feel the aluminum floating, it seemed solid.  If I am wrong, and it does have bad damage, how much does it cost to repair? Too much to make the rig worth 9000?

Thanks for the help!

Jake