How to fix split open wheel well?

[rhino1616]

Hi, I just realized my wheel well (under my sink) just split open, don?t know what would have caused it. You can see the top of outside wheel from under the sink. Kinda struggling how to tackle this, Can anyone give an idea on how to repair this?

Thank you

2006 Fun Finder X160 travel trailer

 

[Gizmo100]

Ouch...

As a temporary fix...you may be able to hammer down low enough to use duct tape to keep out water and other pest.

You are going to have to figure out how it happened. Are the tires on the trailer damaged? And are they the right size?

 

[Arch Hoagland]

If it was the result of road debris, and it could very be, then your insurance will cover it.

 

[rhino1616]

I was thinking the same as both of you. one possible way is flatting it out as you said. tough to deal with insurance sometimes. Thanks

 

[jubileee]

If it were mine, I would push or pull it back in shape. Maybe jack it back in place from top or remove tire and pull it down with eyebolt, chain, and pry bar from bottom or both. Then I would pop rivet a section of 2?x2?x3/16? aluminum angle full length along the edge. If using 3/16? rivets and hand pop rivet gun, I?d install rivets about every two inches or less  top and side. ( May be able to bolts and nuts, rivets usually easier). I would caulk the underside of the angle be installing.

 

[Lou Schneider]

I think you'll find it's just thin sheet metal like you'd find on an air conditioning duct so it won't be too hard to bend back into shape.  Probably just pushing on it or hitting it with a hammer will do the trick.

 

[SpencerPJ]

Yes, I would hammer back close to original.  JB Weld makes many various glues and adhesive products that work pretty good too.  I'd get it sealed, or next time you travel in the rain, you'll have a wet mess under there.

 

[Gods Country]

Most simple fixes like this one are best done yourself, IMO.  Even if covered, who is going to fix it?  A dealer?  They'll rape you to do an inferior job, and keep your trailer for 3 months for good measure.

I would pound it down.  Pick up a piece of sheet metal, cut and form it as required.  Pop rivet, and seal.  Probably only take a few hours.

 

[rhino1616]

Great idea guys, thanks

 

[Hanr3]

Place a piece of wood between the hammer and tin. Don't beat on the tin directly. Use a block of wood and hold it in place, then hit it with the hammer. Once you get it back in place, then decide on how best to keep it there.