Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

Danny, I would look at some of the urethane based panel bonding adhesives used in the automotive industry such as SikaFlex 252/552 ...this product(252) is available from Austin Hardware...it or similar products should be available from your local auto body paint supply house........
madjack

I used to work in a heavy truck body shop where we used 3M VHB Tape instead of rivets to install trailer skins.

3M's 5200 marine adhesive.

...thanks Danny, it's good to be back...there are many different brands from differing manufacturers...be aware that some are two part products and require a special applicator...the VHB is a good alternative and should be available from the same places........
madjack

Joe G wrote:I used to work in a heavy truck body shop where we used 3M VHB Tape instead of rivets to install trailer skins.

Wow Joe thanks , I have a roll of a clear membrane tape (double sided) that I use to use for gluing brass stops in store fixtures. I wonder if it's the same stuff? All it says is 3M Scotch Brand Tape. I didn't know it could be used for exterior applications. I know even lacquer thinner won't dissolve the stuff if you make a mistake. I think I'll give it a try ( at the leading edge) along with contact cement. Danny

Danny keep in mind that contact cement does not withstand heat and expansion very well and is really not what you want to use in this application.......
madjack

This is what they glue cars together with these days, I didn't read through all their info but I'm sure it works on aluminium.

Fusor

I've used it a couple of times and it does seem to work well.

Danny:
I don't know this guys name but he was parked a couple spaces down from me at the ITG last year. He glued his aluminum skin at the joints and was very happy with the results. Maybe someone on the forum can steer you to him.
Tom

madjack wrote:Danny keep in mind that contact cement does not withstand heat and expansion very well and is really not what you want to use in this application.......
madjack

Madjack, I have a lot of faith in contact cement as I use it on a daily basis. I used it on the walls of my first TD with absolutely no problems for 2 years now. There is a counter top at a local deli where it gets constant sun exposure and the plam has shrunk about 1/8" at a seam and the plam is still intact. I plan on using that 3M tape on the leading edge of both pieces of aluminum along with contact in the field, it'll be fine. Danny

Hey Guys, After much googleing, I think 3m vhb is the way to go when glueing aluminum to aluminum. My question is, which is the better choice, 4991 or 4941? I'm leaning towards 4941 but what do you think?