Crack Front Cap Fiberglass

[cedarwings]

Hi folks - after a long wet winter here on Vancouver Island, I went out yesterday to clean the front cap a little bit and discovered this crack (zoom in). It was not hit by anything (to the best of my knowledge) - no evidence of any other damage. It appears to have developed over the winter as it was not there last fall. This side of the cap is in direct sunlight until about 2 PM and we do get some hot days - up to 35 C or more in the summer. Could this be the cause? Any words of wisdom for me?

I am full time stationary on Vancouver Island for the past (almost) 3 years. Unit was purchased brand new in summer 2022. Reflection 367BHS.

 

[CharlesinGA]

That is the gel coat that is cracked. I have some large cracks on the side of my Bigfoot trailer.

Charles

 

[Believer45]

I would first check your warranty - fiberglass may be covered for more than the typical one year warranty period. If it is not, you might contact a boat repair shop. They deal with gelcoat fiberglass repair and could probably take care of it for you.

 

[cedarwings]

I would first check your warranty - fiberglass may be covered for more than the typical one year warranty period. If it is not, you might contact a boat repair shop. They deal with gelcoat fiberglass repair and could probably take care of it for you.

Thank you I will do that. I guess my concern is what caused this... If not UV related, could there be something structurally wrong? This unit has not been moved since it was placed in August 2022.

 

[Believer45]

Looking at the picture the crack does not seem to be in an area subject to stress. It looks like it was not done by an impact from the outside. It looks like the crack is a bit in from the right front corner on the front cap where the vertical surface curves to above the fifth wheel. Is that correct? Perhaps start by checking for water leaks above the crack all the way across the front and partway down the right side (if my location is correct) up to the roof and the front few feet of the roof for evidence of leaks. Water intrusion and a freeze might cause what you have. In any case it would seem prudent to have it repaired or make a temporary repair to keep any water from getting between the layers of gelcoat and fiberglass and causing further damage.

 

[NY_Dutch]

If it's just cracks in the gel coat, the most likely cause is expansion and contraction due to extreme temperature swings. As said, a boat repair shop would be good choice.

 

[cedarwings]

I would first check your warranty - fiberglass may be covered for more than the typical one year warranty period. If it is not, you might contact a boat repair shop. They deal with gelcoat fiberglass repair and could probably take care of it for you.

I did check warranty and it appears to exclude front and rear cap fiberglass but I'll call the dealership on Monday. Thanks for the heads up!

 

[cedarwings]

Looking at the picture the crack does not seem to be in an area subject to stress. It looks like it was not done by an impact from the outside. It looks like the crack is a bit in from the right front corner on the front cap where the vertical surface curves to above the fifth wheel. Is that correct? Perhaps start by checking for water leaks above the crack all the way across the front and partway down the right side (if my location is correct) up to the roof and the front few feet of the roof for evidence of leaks. Water intrusion and a freeze might cause what you have. In any case it would seem prudent to have it repaired or make a temporary repair to keep any water from getting between the layers of gelcoat and fiberglass and causing further damage.

Thank you. I have checked and no evidence of water leaks anywhere. My washer/dryer combo is in the bedroom closet pretty much right above the crack - wondering if maybe the vibration could have caused it?

 

[TheBar]

A crack in the gel coat is likely nothing to worry about. I doesn't affect the structural strength of the fiberglass. Keep an eye for any leaks but you may never have any.

 

[cedarwings]

A crack in the gel coat is likely nothing to worry about. I doesn't affect the structural strength of the fiberglass. Keep an eye for any leaks but you may never have any.

Thanks! I pulled out washer/dryer combo and very carefully checked for signs of leaks and it's dry as a bone. I have the crack covered with very good duct tape right now....

 

[TheBar]

Thanks! I pulled out washer/dryer combo and very carefully checked for signs of leaks and it's dry as a bone. I have the crack covered with very good duct tape right now....

A better choice would be Eternabond tape. It is known to last 20 years. I have had it around all sides and vents on my RV roof for 11 years and it’s like new.

 

[Derby6]

Or flex seal tape or stuff….