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Dear Fix it people,

Can you possibly help?  I used Sikaflex to reseal some of my window seals on my old caravan a couple of years ago and it was great.  I've now purchased a second caravan to keep on a seasonal pitch and would like to re-do the metal rail that runs along the front (that seals the roof panel with the front one?).  I've read about how I'm supposed to do this in my caravan manual, but when I get to the bit when John Wickersham says that the sikaflexed rail should then be held in place with 'self-tapping' screws, what exactly is all that about?

What is a self-tapping screw?  How do I use them and do they come out once the sikaflex has set?  And if the screws do come out, is the rail really secure, just using sikaflex?  I mean, the stuff was great on my window seals, but they were still stapled in place...

Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a lot

possibly all you need to know here.self tap screw is one that makes its own screw base to grip too and is not pre - tapped.

Fixed It Club Members Directory IE.

All you need to do is to drill a pilot hole where you want to use the screw. Use a drill bit that is slightly slimmer than the screw and drill the hole slightly shorter than the screw. (Use some tape on the drill bit to mark the depth you need to drill to.)

This pilot hole will make it much easier to screw into, and prevents the wood underneath from splitting. It helps to also place a small amount of Vaseline onto the screw threads beforehand.

I'd use a screw with a domed head that is flat underneath - like the gold coloured screw that is lying on its side in the pic. above. The screws with a tapered head won't sit well on your trim. I would also leave the screws in place afterwards otherwise you'll be leaving open holes in the trim which won't look good and may let water in.

I suggest it's worth looking for some stainless steel screws - more expensive, but they are the best for the job.

This should help http://www.1carpc.co.uk/wcdr/front-body-to-roof---rail-reseal.-plus-lower-front-awning-rails---reseal.htm 

atb

Wizard