| GMC Aluminum [message #346967] |
Wed, 28 August 2019 11:46  |
Rich Kinas
Messages: 113
Registered: July 2019
Karma:
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Senior Member |
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Hey all. I have some patch work to do on the roof of my coach, 1976 Eleganza II. I measured the aluminum thickness at .065 inches (14 gauge). But when looking online to purchase an appropriate "patch" panel there are various alloys available. Does anyone know that actual alloy that was used on our coaches? Also I am looking for any suggestions as to my proposed process to move the refrigerator vent outboard since I am installing a propane combination Norcold and originally it was just electric. I would have just ducted it over to the existing opening however the duct would be at an angle greater than 45deg which Norcold states can not be the case for proper performance. So I am just going to move it outboard. My plan is to use a patch 1 inch larger than the existing cutout, rivet this patch onto the inside surface of the roof, using existing holes where the vent cap was mounted (at a minimum) then epoxy a fill in piece of aluminum to this patch area to bring the patch flush with existing roof. Here are some questions for the group:
1) I would prefer to use countersunk rivets but can only find dimple sets for up to 16gauge aluminum. Any problem using flush (large flange) rivets?
2) How many rivets would you recommend to secure the patch? Existing holes for cap were about 1.5" apart, I would think this would be sufficient. Thoughts?
3) Would epoxy be sufficient to attach the filler aluminum to the underlying patch or should I rivet this some amount as well?
4) I would prefer solid rivets as well however they do make some closed-end self sealing blind (pop) rivets. Any concerns on using these, since the process would be much simpler and I could do it without getting the wife involved (which in situations such as this, un-tried and un-tested processes, I have found to be a better plan 
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated
Rich Kinas
1976 Eleganza II
Orlando, FL
Rich Kinas
1976 Elaganza II
Orlando, FL
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