Cubby Question-How long do you make the rain diverter?

Posted:
Sun May 15, 2005 8:39 am
by larryl
Can not tell from the shop drawings. How long and any ideas about bending the aluminum to match the radius of the door- apply heat?
Thanks,
Larry

Posted:
Sun May 15, 2005 12:31 pm
by norm perkiss
Larry,
Yes, apply heat to all or just the section on the trim you want to bend. Use the search button on the T&TTT page, I'm sure you will find quite a few discussions. I used the candle carbon method with good results. Apply the soot (carbon) and heat with a propane torch until the carbon just burns off. Keep the torch moving for an even heat. Aluminum will melt shortly after reaching the carbon burn off point.
To bend the trim, attach it to the Teardrop, clamps or drill and screw in place. Use a rubber mallet and beat the %#&@ out of it. I used a combination of the rubber mallet and wood scrap trimmed to match the curve to coax the trim into submission. You may have to remove the trim and reheat to get it to form a tight curve.
Norm

Posted:
Wed May 18, 2005 12:18 pm
by fornesto
I picked up a cheapo deadblow hammer and love it for the aluminum trim. It's just so gentle and doesn't bounce like my mallet does. I actually walk up and down my trailer pounding on the trim to smooth it out.