DIY Guide: How to Maintain and Repair Exterior Edge Seals on Scout Cam

DIY Guide: How to Maintain and Repair Exterior Edge Seals on Scout Campers

Whether you're planning your next big trip or just ensuring your Scout Camper is in prime condition, you've come to the right place. At Juniper Overland, we understand the importance of self-sufficiency, especially when the great outdoors calls your name. That's why we've put together this easy-to-follow, DIY maintenance guide to help you repair and maintain the exterior edge seals of your Scout Camper. Let's dive in!

What You’ll Need:

Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s make sure you have everything on hand. You'll need:

Manus-Bond 73-A Silicone Rubber Sealant (Scout's choice for factory seals)
Isopropyl alcohol or another cleaning solvent
Clean rag or paper towels
Scuffing pad (We recommend a 3M Red Scuff Pad)
Small flathead screwdriver (The smaller, the better for precision cutting)
Painters/masking tape
OPTIONAL: Disposable gloves
OPTIONAL: Razor blade or precision knife

Preparation Is Key:

Before we get started, remember: it's best to tackle this project on a warmer, dry day. This ensures the best conditions for the sealant to adhere and cure properly.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Clean the Exterior: Begin by washing the exterior of your camper thoroughly. Allow it to completely dry. This step is crucial for removing any dirt and grime that could interfere with the sealing process.
Remove Old Seals: Use your small flathead screwdriver to gently scrape along the edges to remove the old sealant. The trick here is to scrape from one edge to the corner and then from the opposite edge to meet in the middle. Apply minimal pressure to avoid scratches — you're just removing the old seal, not the camper's spirit.
Prep the Surface: After removing the old sealant, use a scuffing pad to buff the surface underneath. This not only helps remove any residual sealant but also prepares the surface for better sealant adhesion.
Clean Again: Wipe down the freshly prepped areas with isopropyl alcohol or your chosen cleaning solvent. This step ensures a pristine surface for the new sealant to bond with.
Tape for Precision: Apply painters or masking tape along the edges where you'll be applying the new sealant. This helps create clean, straight lines and ensures a professional-looking finish. Leave a small gap between the tape and the area where the sealant will go to ensure a neat application.
Apply the Sealant: Now, it's time for the Manus-Bond 73-A Silicone Rubber Sealant to shine. Apply a small bead along the taped edge, working in one continuous motion to ensure a uniform seal.
Smooth It Out: Use your finger (a disposable glove can come in handy here) to smooth out the sealant. This not only removes excess but also ensures a tight seal and a smooth finish.
Remove the Tape: Carefully peel away the tape before the sealant cures completely. This leaves you with a clean, sharp edge that looks professionally done.
Check and Reapply if Needed: Once the sealant has had time to cure, check your work. If necessary, apply a second bead of sealant for added protection and water resistance.
Final Touches: Allow the sealant to fully cure according to the product's instructions before taking your camper out for another adventure.

Wrapping Up:

And there you have it — your Scout Camper's exterior seals are now refreshed and ready to withstand whatever the road throws at them. This simple yet effective maintenance can save you time and money down the line, not to mention the peace of mind it brings knowing your camper is well-protected.

Remember, maintaining your camper isn't just about preserving its condition; it's about ensuring your adventures can continue without a hitch. We hope this guide empowers you to take your camper's maintenance into your own hands. For more tips, tricks, and DIY guides, make sure to subscribe to our channel and check back here for updates.

Happy camping, and here's to many more adventures in your well-maintained Scout Camper!

DIY Guide Scout Campers

Older Post

Newer Post