Re: [VAC] Hail Damage

["terry tyler" <tylerbears@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Dave Carr, 

In your posting, you asked:

>My questions?
>
>are the lenses or complete light assy available yet? It is a two bulb unit
>that is oblong.

Answer: Yes, try NAPA or the like. They are commonly available.

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>I think I can put a piece of lexan over the center of the vent cap if I can
>figure out how to get it off.

Answer: A garbage bag over the cap will buy time to figure out what you'll eventually do. Take some
time and review as many options as you can. Don't rush into a fix right away.

When the plastic inserts to our 3 vent caps were destroyed by hail, I put lindeen covers (ten minute
job in torrential rain) over all three vent caps until I had time to install them correctly after
the rain stopped. Eventually, I replaced the plastic inserts. That was a chore and a half on a sunny
warm weekend. After experiencing the benefit of the covers, I continued using them and still do to
this day. It was money well spent. Check out the covers at:
http://www.lindeen.com/cover.html       
model 200cs

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>I will put a fiberglass patch over the A/C hole. The A/C is original so the
>plastic cover is very brittle. Is it ok to leave the hole in the A/C cover
>open for awhile, or will the hole let water into the guts of the A/C and
>damage it. 

Answer: Leave it open until you can find a new a/c cover or until you can patch it. While it's open,
clean out any debris. If you see a place in the blower motor to put a drop of 3in1 oil, do that too.
Notice the caulking condition around the housing, clean suspected areas and refresh as needed.

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Welcome to the Hail Storm Club. The dings represent a "seasoned" rig. While you are making trips up
and down from the roof, pay attention to caulking along all of the seams where there are dings. Have
a crayon in your pocket to mark any that will need further attention. Check all other caulking
areas, too.

One more caveat, distribute your weight on the roof, don't wear a belt buckle or have keys dangling
off a belt loop if you plan to lay on the aluminum while making repairs. 

You are about to become an expert in another aspect of owning an Airstream. That entitles you to...

Terry