2008 160X - Replacing front of trailer

[Jaguar]

Over the past few years, I have noticed indents forming below the curve at the nose of the trailer. I silicone it last season before winter and this hesr it's gotten way worse. In addition, it's bubbling up in places almost a half inch high. To the top right of the front window, and along the top (not pictured). Checking inside water does not appear to be gettin to the inside. But it's definitely something that needs to be addressed.

Does anyone know why this is happening?

Has anyone replaced the front part of their trailer before? Seems like a massive job and worried the cost might be more than what this trailer is worth.

Thank you.
Mike

 

[foakes]

This is a kind of common issue with fiberglass over aluminum framed trailers.

It is caused by either water intrusion or heat — it basically is the fiberglass skin on the front cap becoming de-laminated from the material under the fiberglass.

An aluminum replacement cap will be stronger, and if done properly will eliminate any future leak issues — and look very good. The proper “S” overlap joining is critical (just like installing roof shingles on your home).

While this may seem like a daunting repair —it is not really that tough or expensive to accomplish. And it will look spectacular when you are done.

Front window, mouldings, and market lights must come off first.

If it is done like this fellow did it — it will both improve your 160, as well as increase its value, appearance, and it is well worth doing.

This guy said he did it for $500-$600, DIY (don’t know when). But even if you shop around for an INDEPENDENT Quality RV repair shop — it shouldn’t run more than $2000 to $2500.

This front cap replacement is a common job on many trailers.

Best, Fred

https://youtu.be/pnH-z0Pp3eI

 

[gator-FUN]

The fiberglass is paper thin. It's actually attached to cardboard for the front curved section. It typically delaminates. I had the entire front of my trailer replaced a number of years ago. Water got in at the clearance lights and at the seam by the diamond plating. It rotted out the wood and the whole front collapsed while towing it to the repair shop. They reconstructed it and it was better than new. There are a number of threads on the subject, but I'm not sure it all got ported over to the new system.

Good luck.