An RV tech had cut holes in the underbelly of the customers fifth wheel to locate and repair electrical and valve components. This left the customer with exposed electrical and plumbing components in his basement with no protection from the elements.
Instead of randomly cutting holes, there are several preferred methods to accessing the underbelly of the RV for repairs. First, see if you can access the component in need of repair through a removable access panel or possibly through a false wall in a storage compartment (usually secured with screws that can be removed and replaced.)
Next best would be to drop a section of the underbelly by removing the frame hardware and then reinstall it once the repair is complete. Pull the original factory rivet style fasteners by prying them out using side grip pliers or lineman’s pliers. You may be able to just drop one corner or ½ of the underbelly without having to completely detach the underbelly material from the unit. Avoid this kind of work on a windy day.
If you do find that you need to cut the underbelly material, rather than remove a section completely, just cut two slits starting at the frame and cutting back toward the center of the underbelly on both sides of the repair area to be accessed. Then fold back the section like a flap so that it can be reattached to the frame and sealed at the seams to prevent air and water intrusion back into the underbelly once the repair is complete. Be careful not to cut into the insulation if possible, and avoid any wires, plumbing, or tanks. Note the placement of all concealed equipment so that you don’t accidently puncture any important components when you are reinstalling the underbelly or adding hardware or fasteners to resecure the material.
If underbelly material needs to be replaced, be aware that it comes in different widths and lengths, so make sure you measure 3 times and purchase material that is wide enough to reach all the way across the frame so that you do not have any seems running parallel to the rig. Horizontal seems should be overlapped with opening of the seam toward the rear of the camper. You can apply exterior grade industrial strength double sided tape in between the material at the seams and then overlap the seams with butyl roofing tape to complete the seal.
In a pinch you can find Coroplast material at a sign shop or hardware store that may meet the needs of your repair. Unfortunately, you may not find an exact match in color, but this is a secondary concern, as the underbelly material is important for protection of the electrical and plumbing components in your basement and is rarely seen.
You can replace the rivet type fasteners with #14 x 1” self-tapping metal to metal screws with a 5/16” hex head and large flat fender washers.
Comments