Slideout Gap and Leak

Started by GoElectric, May 11, 2018, 10:18:12 AM

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GoElectric

We towed our 16 DBS about 80 miles in a moderate steady rain and by accident discovered a water leak behind the sofa, along the seam along the floor of the slideout, when reaching for the broom we store there.  There were probably only a few ounces of water along the whole back seam. Upon examination, I notice some gaps in the original caulking seams in the frame (square trim around slideout) of the slideout, so re-caulked hoping that will take care of it.  However, I noticed when fully close there is a slight bow on the left side with a 1/4" gap at the widest (just about in the middle) where the rubber gasket does not meet the side.  I could see how rain could be force in the gap easily at highway speeds, but the inside seal should keep this out and I would think the water would be noticed on the main floor and not the slideout floor.  Is there any cause for concern and anybody else's similar?  I have attached pictures of close up of the gap and wider view of the slide out, plus a picture of the frame where I caulked with that messy, hard to work with Geocel caulk. I sealed the wheel wells shortly after I got the camper so don't think that would be the problem. Thanks in advance for any advice or help.
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.  John 10:10

Powder Hounds

Not to worry, we had the same issue with our 2015 RBS. The lower horizontal trim piece on the slide was the source of a small leak. I removed the factory cauking and re sealed with Mulco Supra Expert, being in the window and door industry this product is well suited for any exterior application, it is available in multipliable colours as well. Caution, if you try this product and make a mess of it, you must let it cure for at least two weeks before you attempt to remove it.

Also recently, I touched up the same left hand side vertical caulking and added a  length of rectangular automotive weather strip over the screw holes and caulking, you may have to trim the weather strip slightly so the slide just makes contact with slight compression. Very easy. Don't purchase house hold weather strip, that type of cell construction will break down over time due to UV. The automotive weather strip will resist the UV light, has great adhesion and nice compression features. Very common at your favorite car parts store, NAPA / O'Reilly.




GoElectric

Good to know that it should not be an issue. The rectangular automotive weather strip sounds like a great solution to close that gap.  Thanks for the advice, I will buy a strip and give it a try.  Also will look at Mulco caulking next time I need some.
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.  John 10:10