What is my trailer made of???
stef73433
Reg. Jun 2005
Posted 2012-05-07 1:04 PM (#143764)
Subject: What is my trailer made of???


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Posts: 76
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Location: WI
I have a 1990 Sooner Dynasty. The walls are made of something that is not exactly solid?? ie. I can screw into it. almost like a coated wood or something?? Someone on here once told me the name and I forgot what it is. Anyone know?
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cutter99
Reg. Sep 2007
Posted 2012-05-07 1:06 PM (#143765 - in reply to #143764)
Subject: RE: What is my trailer made of???


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Posts: 430
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Location: TN
Would it be FRP, which is fiberglass reinforced plywood?
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RTSmith
Reg. Nov 2003
Posted 2012-05-07 1:26 PM (#143767 - in reply to #143764)
Subject: RE: What is my trailer made of???


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Location: Tenn/Ala.
FRP it is. And yes cutter, Fiberglass Reinforced Plywood.
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stef73433
Reg. Jun 2005
Posted 2012-05-07 2:32 PM (#143774 - in reply to #143764)
Subject: RE: What is my trailer made of???


Regular


Posts: 76
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Location: WI
is/was this a good thing, or should I be worried abo the trailer rotting away?
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gard
Reg. Aug 2007
Posted 2012-05-07 10:49 PM (#143796 - in reply to #143764)
Subject: RE: What is my trailer made of???


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FRP laminated onto plywood results in a very strong panel, albeit at a weight penality over other types of construction.

The single problem that can damage the lamination, is a lack of maintenance. Every panel that has an exposed outside opening, is subject to water intrusion. Over time, the interior laminates will seperate and rot, and an expensive repair becomes necessary to save the trailer.

Fortunately this situation can be avoided, by frequent checks of the caulking around the windows and doors that penetrate the panels. This is a very important maintenance with this type of construction, and should not be avoided.

To test for delaminations, take the handle of a screw driver and tap the panel starting a foot or so away from the opening. You want to hear a solid "thunk". When you near the window or door, you do not want to hear a change of the sound. If you hear a softer "thud", you have a serious problem. By moving the impacts around the area, you can determine the scope of the problem. It helps to mark the space with tape or a pencil to determine the actual size of the delamination.

Small areas can be repaired fairly easily, large repairs can involve a whole panel or wall section.

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