I cant search far back enough to find the threads on Sundowner Corrosion Issues between 1999 and 2008, but my main question is whether it affected all models of Sundowner trailers manufactured during those years (that have steel frames) or just the ValueLite/Sunlite? I am looking at a yr 2000 Sundowner Diamond Sport and cant find anything online about this model and whether the rust issues were also a problem for this model.
Posted 2021-01-26 5:11 AM (#173448 - in reply to #173443) Subject: RE: Sundowner Corrosion Issues
Regular
Posts: 76 Location: Michigan
The years seem right but I believe it was the sunlite models, its the trailers that had a steel frame with the powder coating. My friend has a 1998 that had a steel frame that was painted gray and while it is showing its age now (we are in michigan) it is still a useable trailer and the frame is still solid. I had a 2003 sunlite and though the frame looked fine on the outside, when I took it in for something else in 2012 the repair man noticed chucks of the frame falling off onto his floor while he worked on the axle. After sandblasting it some of the crossmembers were riddled with holes and required extensive repair. For me honestly, I will never buy another Sundowner. If it is the painted frame the trailer may still be fine but if it has the black powder coating I would run away. As it is 21 years old, I would have the frame inspected by a professional who knows what they are looking for before purchasing.
Posted 2021-01-26 8:35 AM (#173449 - in reply to #173443) Subject: RE: Sundowner Corrosion Issues
Elite Veteran
Posts: 788 Location: Tenn/Ala.
For starters, disregard the names. They changed through the years so there is no consistency of name to construction. The "corrosion" can be in any trailer within the timeframe you mention. It is generally very apparent if you look. Basically the powder coating on the frame is holding moisture in, causing rust. Which then causes the flaking you've mentioned. We've seen units that were in really bad condition, have seen some that weren't bad at all. The black the OP referenced is undercoating, and it can hide the issue as well.
As mentioned, look very carefully. As has also been mentioned, it is over 20 years old. Be sure and check the floor. That timeframe had the suncoat bedliner on the floor, and it proved to allow urine to get through and get trapped on the floor. Over time, corrosion and then holes. We suggest removing the bedliner if it is still present so you can wash the floor regularly.
Posted 2021-01-26 9:56 AM (#173450 - in reply to #173443) Subject: RE: Sundowner Corrosion Issues
New User
Posts: 3
Thank you so much! I have decided to pass on this one after seeing photos of the frame - but was also curious about other sundowners as they come up for sale quite often! Thanks!
Sundowner Corrosion Issues
