Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[mrsherbie]

Hello!

Nice to find a special vintage caravan forum!

We finally have our '59/'60 SMV8 aluminium caravan home, and though in great shape (always lovingly barn stored) she leaked a little in the rain coming home, a small part of the interior wood roof lining rippled! so after inspection it looks like we need to re-seal all the panel joints and go round and carefully tap all the 'nails' back in.

It seems to be a horizontal roof panel joint that has opened a little.

Any suggestions?
It wants to be off white ideally. (She is painted not fully polished)
Obviously silicon sealer would probably do the job but we would much rather use something more authentic/in keeping? There seems to be a wax in some joints? I wondered about Sikaflex291/292 seal for the roof repair? I've used it before and its good.

Any helpful tips appreciated, she's definitely not venturing outdoors again until the sun is shining!!

Thankyou
Anna

[Uncle Joe]

Hi and welcome to the forum. Have you tried contacting the manufacturers? They are usually very willing to help with information to help restore/repair older vans, There is even an active club for these vans.

UJ

[mrsherbie]

There's not a club here in uk is there?
My partner has had SMV10's before, but none have ever been a 'keeper' until this one
Good tip though, Thanks!

[Uncle Joe]

The only club that I know of is here in Sweden, as is the factory. Would you like the links?

UJ

[cornish_lass]

Hi Mrs Herbie (Anna) and welcome to this forum.

I must admit to never having heard of an SMV before you did your posting, but then I found one on Ebay (model size .... bless) and must admit it looks good

How about some pictures so we can all see what yours looks like. With regard to the leakage, I have never used it myself, but I gather that Sikaflex is probably one of the best things you can use.

Good luck with the repairs.

Cornish Lass

[admin]

yeah I'd be interested in seeing a pic or two if poss!?

Rick

[j_nigrelli]

http://www.vintagetrailersupply.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=24

i don't know if there's a supplier "near you!"

[Brian M]

Hi Anna - welcome to the forum.

Did we exchange emails some time ago about your SMV8? I run the Classic Safari Enthusiasts Group.

The Caravan Repairer who advised me on the rebuild of my Safari would only recommend Sikaflex. It remains flexible for far longer than any other sealant and so does not go hard and crack over the years. He said that it is a good idea to replace it every three years or so.

You should remove any capping strips, get rid of all the old sealant and thoroughly clean the area. Put masking tape either side of the area being sealed and apply the sealant, replace the cappings and then remove the masking tape for a really neat finish.

[splitscreenman]

Hi. i also have an smv but mine is a 10, would love to own an 8 but hard to find. do you have some pics ? would love to see your van. neil