RV Sidewall Water Damage...What Did We Find?

So this is going to have to be a series again and I am sorry. A viewer contacted me about her 2006 Winnebago Journey with delaminating sidewall. She had already had the wall repaired a few months ago, but it failed again. I did advise against the cost to risk benefits but she really did not like the look of the bubbling sidewall.
In this first part, Chad and I will tear the sidewall down and make some assesments as to what the repair will be and what we can do.
Thanks for watching!
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[@h5mind373]

We have an expression in our family: "Impossible just means it's gonna take a little more time." You guys make this stuff look easy.

[@AZExpert]

I assure you it's not lol

[@hrlyrdr9812]

Your killin me!! Left us hangin. Can’t wait to see the finished product.

[@AZExpert]

sorry, I should have the next one up soon.

[@DealsonRequest]

@@AZExpert If its up, please post. I really wanna see the follow up to this.

[@marlenepineda1079]

Good job. You guys have patience. I was scared watching you peel that gigantic panel.

[@AZExpert]

I was scared too.

[@ronniecardy]

Good thing they have you both on this job. At least it will be done right and hoping never done again

[@AZExpert]

I sure hope never again. That's my goal.

[@hillbillyrv]

I have also tried to talk customers out of big scary repairs. Isn't it interesting how they usually turn out so well and you and the customer are really happy with the finished repair. I believe this will be one of those. Looks great so far. You have Bad Chad on the job, so you know it will go great.

[@AZExpert]

I always waiting for the phone call months later with bad news though.

[@hillbillyrv]

@@AZExpert That is why we make the big bucks, right?

[@AZExpert]

well it's definitely better being the owner than the employee sometimes.

[@papajoej]

Another " thriller " ! Is the roof going to tear? Is the sidewall going to crack ? And to top it off, it popped up " To be continued !". Can't wait to see the finish.

[@AZExpert]

thank you. I didn't want to make a series but there was just so much footage!

[@sailorjohnboy2325]

Holy cow! Man so many ways that could have gone bad. One the plus side, you've saved them a paint job.

[@AZExpert]

it was nerve racking to me!

[@reignman_425]

Scared to think of the thousands of botched repair jobs rolling around out there with 4 sale signs on them. I imaging you client wasn’t pleased to have to go thru this a second time. I’m glad there are still crafts persons left in the world with the talent and caring of a job well done. Thanks guys.

[@AZExpert]

thank you! I'm still scared my repair will be in someone else's video :)

[@badgerpa9]

To get more of the repairs in a series is great than one video that shows very little, no issues with multiple videos. It turns out she was right that there was enough to be concerned about though with the leak still being there. Feel bad for the customer, it is never fun to pay someone to do something and have it fail, even if the person did their best; which I would take a guess this was not done correctly. You do awesome videos and you and Chad are good as a team. Stay safe and healthy, sir.

[@AZExpert]

Thank you very much. I hope you enjoy the series.

[@DavidHBurkart]

I agree with you, I would not have done this repair either... until you found the water leak. The bane of RV life. Still a shame to have to break that roof seal. Good thing you and Chad are you and Chad 👍👍

[@AZExpert]

I am surprised by the number of leaks we found.

[@rtjautomotive]

Customer satisfaction at its best.Y’all do superb work.

[@AZExpert]

Much appreciated!

[@theghostrider9964]

Looks like you're going to be taking of the piece under the slide also. Great job removing that side without damaging it. Skill and patience 👌

[@AZExpert]

That's the plan!

[@josephleister9198]

As always , very nice work guys..looking forward to part 2...thanks

[@AZExpert]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@wes2975]

Great work so far James. I give you credit for being willing to tackle this job.

[@AZExpert]

thank you!

[@DutchStar443]

Now I understand the difference between hung wall construction and laminated wall construction. Very informative. Thanks.

[@AZExpert]

Glad it was helpful!

[@roblambie7937]

Good information, showed that you guys have great skills. Nice to see a craftsman at work

[@AZExpert]

Thanks 👍

[@philw7174]

Holy shmokes. Great job Chad and Andrew. Happy trails!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks! 👍

[@robertthompson6958]

Man what an interesting video. You guys are amazing James and Chad. People are flocking from across the country for your services.

[@AZExpert]

thank you!!

[@rockeyoliver7254]

I love this video... I always learn a lot from your video’s and your work with Chad. I’m looking forward to seeing your pt.2 video on this repair. I’m sure the subscriber owner of this RV will be very happy that you and chad are doing a great job in her replacement wall! Blessings to y’all! Truly honored to be following your channel!

[@AZExpert]

I think she was happy, no angry calls yet!

[@DesertAdventuresinArizona]

You guys are awesome. If I ever need work done on my 2015 Vista I’ll look for you! Steve

[@AZExpert]

Thank you very much!

[@carmencolon3520]

Glad to see this video. I think my rv is having this problem plus some areas inside that concern me. I definitely will need help.

[@smacdiesel]

I sold my Winnie Vista last year, it had a weird wave on the side wall. I guess it was beginning to delaminate. So glad it's not my problem anymore.

[@AZExpert]

I completely understand.

[@ourvlife1]

@@NomadMechanic Since the seller didn’t actually determine what the issue was and only sold it because he wasn’t comfortable with the aesthetics. I feel it’s the buyers responsibility to hire an inspector to make that buying decision. I do agree with you that if a diagnosis has been made and disclosed to the seller, then in fact it should be disclosed to a buyer. That said, I’m a big advocate of RVIA inspections to be done on all new or used RV’s.

[@cwshumate914]

Excellent work gentlemen.

[@AZExpert]

Thank you kindly!

[@DLTJR1959]

Great work James. I don't have the patience, knowledge, or where with all to do what you do. Thanks. My father owned a Winny product many years ago but it was almost new. Not really impressed with their engineering and construction. Thanks for your video's. I appreciate it.

[@AZExpert]

I have always liked Winnebago, but they have let me down in the last few videos for sure.

[@dougchalmers5010]

If I ever have delam I’m going to AZ! You guys are great! 👍

[@AZExpert]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@dannycarroll3162]

Your videos are so informative and you do a great job explaining everything. I have the same problem too. Is there a ballpark price it would cost? You mentioned what it would cost with the repair and paint. But what about just the repair? I do plan on painting the entire rv after repairing the delamination if it makes any difference.

[@terry3193]

Awesome and timely video! I have the exact problem in that exact area next to my super slide of our motorhome. Now that I see your video, I know my leak is from the top corner of the slide. I don’t k ow, however, how to get the belt line trim between the wall and storage doors off. It seems to have rivets. I wish you were in Colorado to do work. Unfortunately I’m not aware of any reputable shops in Colorado. They would probably do the same kind of poor job that was previously done on that Winnebago and charge a lot for it. Looking forward to seeing the 2nd part of your video. Take care!

[@AZExpert]

thank you. it should be out tomorrow

[@ernieb3626]

You should consider a go pro mounted on a headlamp strap like Trogley guitar does. just a sugestion. Love the videos and im getting ready to seal the roof on our 05 voyage thanks to you. God Bless

[@AZExpert]

I have had one before but it was a garbage camera in my opinion

[@ernieb3626]

@@AZExpert well I thought it worth a try. Thanks for all the content.

[@laramie_1944]

This video is useful for potential used RV (Winnebago) buyer…like me. I’ve been looking at 2001-2005 Minnie Winnies, simply because those years, Winnebago used slam-latch doors. I know Winnebago uses Azdel now, but I’m curios to know when they started using it. Thank you…now on to the next video.

[@AZExpert]

I dont know that one, you could probably contact the manufacturer

[@robertbohnaker9898]

I think RVs can be money pits . Thanks James ! 😊 My neighbor had an RV repair done on the road and then it was later revealed it wasn’t done right and later had to pay to have it done agaun !

[@ThePeopleVerse]

@ around 18:00, I was gnashing my teeth as you were prysing that off of there. YIKES!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@webbphoto2]

Great job getting that whole wall off in one piece! It's hard to understand why they would not have done a good job the first time they had it off. Oh well I'm sure you'll show us the proper way to do it right!

[@AZExpert]

I appreciate the confidence!

[@keithward2565]

I'm interested to see how much foam remains attached to the luan when you rip it off. That can turn into a mess but I'm confident you are the man with the plan. Look forward to the continuing saga of "How the Sidewall Delam's".

[@AZExpert]

LOL, I think we did a pretty good job saving the foam. Thank you!

[@keithward2565]

Becareful, you're giving away the teaser

[@ourvlife1]

Great video!! Good selling point for Azdel. Would Azdel eliminate that disaster. I would love to see a cutaway of an Azdel damaged sidewall by water infiltration.

[@AZExpert]

azdel would have prevented this yes.

[@patriot8087]

Respect to you guys! you both are an awesome talent at repairing these RV. Good on ya boys. It was easy to see what happens when you have the wrong repair guy do the job. You get to do it again. sooner or later. Pathetic.

[@hughhemington9559]

Hopefully you can include what maintenance would have prevented this problem in a subsequent video! This makes me leery of getting any RV/trailer that isn't ALL aluminum!

[@AZExpert]

that's the disturbing part, I don't think there was any preventative maintenance that would have stopped it.

[@stea2494]

man that was a lot of work

[@AZExpert]

it really was. Thanks!

[@OnTheHighWatch]

You should set up bleachers and sell tickets for all the old men in the RV parks to come watch. I had me sitting right there for 10 bucks if I could get shade.

[@AZExpert]

that's funny. The pickel ball players sometimes watch for sure.

[@pault1964]

You two are experts at reverse engineering

[@AZExpert]

thank you

[@toddswenson]

It's interesting to see how flexible that painted panel is and you didn't get any creasing while prying it away from the luan. How much different do you think that filon siding is from what I have on my 2008 thor aerolite travel trailer? I have an area that is bubbled up. I've tackled the leaks (not too happy about how the awning is attached thru the gutters) so now I'll be interested in the materials you use to put your project back together. Thanks for the videos!

[@AZExpert]

The paint is high quality Sherwin-Williams autobody, but the sidewall is true gel-coat fiberglass and I keep calling it filon. I didn't realize until the end. You likely have filon, but it will be the same process. Thanks!

[@6582rg]

Man, that’s stressful work. What’s the material called that the paint is on? That could have been a nightmare if that had to be repainted. That owner’s lucky she had you doing the job.

[@AZExpert]

though I keep calling it filon, it is actually gel-coat fiberglass, a very durable material. Yes, it would have been a nightmare. I didn't feel good until the job was done. :)

[@DennisWintjes2]

Thanks for sharing. Like #168

[@AZExpert]

Big thanks

[@fromhold1]

You mentioned that 3M Supper 90 is not a good choice. I saw were you used Stabond 440 and 183 on the Itasca (mini-winnie) with the delaminated passenger side panel from a leaking roof video, you know the "tedious" one. I have a 5th wheel (2004) with about the same delamination but this was an old repair with a seam at the break of the 5th wheel section. So I have just about the same area to rework as the Itasca. But I don't need a gallon of Staybond x2 one for the filon and the other for the foam side! is there an O.K good available? Thanks I love your videos! You are to the point and tell it like it is!

[@13yearsaprepperr.jtilbury.51]

Like everything in life , do it right do it once ! So far a great job and there is no reason what so ever to think it wont be another 100% proper job ,,,, Can you tell me the special part number for the winnebago de`laminator shovel I want to buy one ,,every one should have at least one in there tool box ,,,( HAHAHAH) Cant wait for the next instalment

[@AZExpert]

I'm working on the next video. Thank you!

[@ynAMe6Aj]

What can an owner do to find or avoid leaks like this before they are a problem?

[@AZExpert]

I am not sure these leaks were preventable, I lay the blame at Winnebago.

[@wallacejohnson2711]

I like the care and thoughtful planning in the disassembly. Are there products the DYI'er can use to reinstall the Filing? I have some STA-put and 3M 78 but they are expensive and not easy to get.

[@AZExpert]

I would not recommend any spraycan adhesives. 3M does make a scotchweld like stabond, but if you're going to do this amount of work, might as well spend the extra $200 for the right glue I'd think.

[@wallacejohnson2711]

@@AZExpert and by the right glue you mean? Also any thoughts on the process people use injecting epoxy and clamp?

[@Thesaltymedic36]

Everything leaks 🤦🏼‍♂️ the roof looked good so what could they do to prevent that? I assume inspection of all the penetration points yearly. Since it’s Luan it got wet and delaminates. If it was Azdel it would not delam? Right ?

[@AZExpert]

Yes, I told the owner that really none of it was preventable, it was Winnebago's fault. Azdel would have prevented it, yes! I think Winnebago has switched to it as the 2019 Minnie Winnie has non-luan sidewalls.

[@garyag45]

Not only oof but double oof! Great work😃!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks 😅

[@TONYANDBRENDA1969]

Nice work. Do you take on the responsibility when let’s the exterior sheet rips or cracks on you? Or is it just an added cost to the customer? Hope to see part 2!

[@AZExpert]

it's complicated. if there were pre-existing unseen rips that would not be on us, neglect or dropping the wall or worse that would have been my fault.

[@benjaminlewiscpt]

Looks like that high strength 90 isn’t so bad after all, as long as you use proper prep and dont lay your filon over old rotten wood lol

[@cameronmcwhinney-holt3195]

I have seen a lot of rvs getting their roofs line x or bed linered. What is your take on that, I have done my own epdm roof on our last 29 ft bumper pull travel trailer with no slides and it was a ton of work and money. I now have a 39 ft fifth wheel with 4 slides and the slide roofs and the main roof needs to be done and i was thinking of "trying" the bedliner on new wood. Just curious to see what you think? Great videos by the way not many people like you that are honest and willing to show a skilled job.

[@AZExpert]

Thank you. The bedliner/spray-on roofs are very durable and work great. My only real concerns are 1) vents and skylights are encased in the material so replacement has to go back to the roof shop 2) adding different items like solar, satellite, antennas requires going back to the shop.

[@bradkruchten6269]

I have the same coach with the same problem. How many man hours to repair?

[@MililaniJag]

Great info!! If that DP was for sale would an RV inspector have found those water leaks? Thx!!

[@AZExpert]

not the leaks, but should have caught the delamination

[@MililaniJag]

@@AZExpert Thx!!

[@christopherrasmussen8718]

I'm sorry. That is sad. That coach won't last. The few you found, I am sure theirs more. Thank God for my coaches monocoque steel body

[@AZExpert]

It was very disheartening to see the amount of water damage for sure.

[@christopherrasmussen8718]

@@AZExpert it’s a shame what’s happened to the brand. David Botts refused a new unit a year or so ago from them. He said, too much wrong

[@DealsonRequest]

Can anyone share a link to the followup to this video? I want to see the rest and the repair and cannot find it.

[@amsmithonline]

James, you made a positive comment about the residential refrigerator that was installed in this unit. Are they as good as the more traditional gas/electric units? Seems there's less potential for leaks from the wall/roof vents. But are they as rugged?

[@AZExpert]

I have found them to be as reliable if not more reliable that rv refrigerators and of course don't cause fires and are much bigger and cheaper. The only draw back is if you dry camp often they would not be a good choice

[@amsmithonline]

@@AZExpert thanks, James. That's really helpful.

[@trevorstump6273]

Sta-put T440 is an excellent high temp adhesive for luan to filon.

[@AZExpert]

I have found it to be a good product, thanks!

[@tuomasholo]

If there’s one thing that will scare any diesel owner it’s “I think there’s water penetration in your pusher.”

[@AZExpert]

I think you are correct!

[@jamesbinns8528]

I've bought one travel trailer---a Little Guy. The side wall rotted (before I got the thing) and broke loose from the frame. I will attempt a repair. Then I will cut my losses and sell it. I will never buy another travel trailer. I had an enclosed cargo trailer for years. Never a problem.

[@AZExpert]

Once there is a leak it becomes a big problem

[@michaelbox7285]

I am going to put some new filon on the back wall of my frontier, what adhesive would you recommend? I look at the 3M 1357 but not sure what to use. Thanks

[@AZExpert]

i like the stabond I do not like the waterbease fastbond

[@michaelbox7285]

@@AZExpert Thanks one quick question. Somebody has been on the back wall before me. Looks like they replaced luan but screwed into the aluminum studs. Should I glue it before adding the new filon? Thanks

[@ImpalamansGarage]

How long did this repair take ?

[@AZExpert]

A solid week

[@richardcorcorran8965]

Let's be honest, they were not trying to fit it, just bandaid it.

[@AZExpert]

yes.

[@russelljekina6416]

hey your rv channels awesome im just wondering 0n A 2009 Winnebago sightseer 31 e if its luan or azdel thank you and what your thinking of having a professional check it out before I buy I wish you were here in California thank you this coach has 18,000 on it but roof radius I need too check thank you!

[@ahummerich2751]

I’m no expert but can you replace the luan with azdel?

[@AZExpert]

I have not found aftermarket access, though I also have not really looked, but yes I'm sure it could be used.

[@BrettHoustonTube]

Do RVs ever seal properly?

[@AZExpert]

LOL No. Thanks for watching! :)

[@kmg1811]

How much does rebuilding a wall cost usually?

[@AZExpert]

The range is too big to quote. It's not cheap. Inspect your RV

[@OnTheHighWatch]

I have been a tradesman my entire life 61 years and the job you’re doing on these coaches scares me the thought of telling a lady oh yeah I can fix that makes me shiver in fear.

[@AZExpert]

I'm just as nervous most of the time. Thank you very much!

[@nomadrvmontreal2733]

i guess you wont be putting back Luan EVER (?) again but instead Azdel composite panels ? (that are resistant to rot)

[@AZExpert]

I am sure I will continue using luan truthfully.

[@1005dragrcr]

What was the total repair time?

[@AZExpert]

That was a stressful 4 days.

[@TriggerTravels]

After owning a 40ft diesel pusher and a 30 ft travel trailer.... And watching some of your videos.... I will never own another rv unless it's a molded fiberglass unit. These things are all ticking time bombs. They all end up leaking and they all delam. I see why used school busses are so popular now.

[@AZExpert]

RVs do cause me sleepless nights

[@adamlau5486]

How much do you charge for a project like this?

[@AZExpert]

Sorry I don't list pricing

[@iair-conditiontheoutsideai3076]

12:46 wow I did not know a slide out could handle the weight of a person!

[@AZExpert]

oh sure, can't jump up and down though :)

[@iair-conditiontheoutsideai3076]

@@AZExpert always learning something new 🙂

[@rushbusbee4133]

Could you give me your contact info? I have a delam project and would like to get your input and/or repair work if you are available. Thanks, Rush

[@AZExpert]

I appreciate it but I am not taking any new jobs for the foreseeable future

[@babylonfive]

WOW. Why do I suddenly not want any sort of motohome at all?

[@AZExpert]

I know what you mean.

[@jacobjohn6942]

About 15k with the work im assuming

[@AZExpert]

much much less

[@shekharmoona544]

300k+ for a new Journey. I wish RV manufacturers would change to aluminum or a steel body.

[@carltonhinote2247]

Where are you working at for who ? We are coming to you

[@soillife1]

Ill keep my 99 Signature

[@AZExpert]

that's a good idea!

[@tedshaw8291]

Now I know what job not to tackle

[@AZExpert]

I don't recommend it.

[@craigscroggins5076]

Hey James, I sent you an email, I hope to right address. Let me know if you received it. Thanks Craig

[@AZExpert]

Let me check

[@larryvisco9674]

Too bad that Winnebago did not use Azdael

[@AZExpert]

they are using it now or similar product

[@guyapeterson]

Are they playing ping pong next door or pickle ball?

[@AZExpert]

pickelball. They're having a blast just a few feet away. :)

[@gaylen8467]

Always cut toward your Buddy, not your Body

[@AZExpert]

lol :) my hands have scars that tell the stories that I fail to learn.

[@akush55]

he got find Iowa plywood slightly 78% less absorbent then Comment Cardboard

[@AZExpert]

lol, Winnebago let us down on this one.

[@akush55]

@@AZExpert where would the best place to install a safe in RV wall,floor, front, back, cargo, that has hard then wood..?

[@sixmagpies]

Why do they use such UNBELIEVABLY junk plywood?

[@AZExpert]

money

[@davejiannuzzi4160]

I wouldn’t say that the other guys were smarter than you, but maybe just lazier?

[@AZExpert]

I think they did the best they could in a day on-site.