Roof Care & Seal Inspections - Monaco 2002 Diplomat Service Manual

Periodic resealing of the joints and seams is necessary to prevent the
entrance of moisture into the motorhome. Enough emphasis cannot be placed
on this issue. Extreme damage from a water leak can occur rapidly. Never
leave the vehicle unattended with the slide room extended. If the vehicle is to
be stored outside throughout the winter months, a full interior inspection for
water leaks should be made bi-monthly. Extensive sealing has been done at the
factory; however, the normal twisting and flexing that occurs while traveling
may have compromised a seal or seam. All joints and seams should be inspect-
ed at least twice a year and recaulked as necessary. Special attention should be
directed toward the roof air conditioning seals, ceiling and plumbing vents,
skylights, roof mounted antennas, windows, door molding, clearance lights and
the beltline molding. Specific sealant products should be used in the areas for
which they were designed. These items can be obtained from recreational vehi-
cle parts suppliers. Listed below are some of the more common sealants and
the areas in which they are used. Approved sealants are available at service
centers and authorized dealers.
WARNING: Some products may contain hazardous materials
which require special handling. Read labels carefully. Follow
all of the product manufacturer's safety requirements.
Sealant Types:
Acryl-R:
Acryl-R is used on all roof openings such as vents, skylights, any
roof mounted antennas and ladder roof mounts. The sealant should
be applied only where the equipment bases meet the roof. Clean
the old sealant that is lifting before applying with new. Make sure
the roof is dry and free of dirt. This product is usually found in a
caulking tube. Care should be used when near an edge, as the
product will spread out. Masking tape may be used to mask around
area to avoid mishaps. The roof air conditioners use a closed cell
foam base gasket. No sealants are required. The roof air conditioners
should be checked for tightness by the four mounting bolts located
in each interior corner of the air conditioner roof opening. Torque
specification is 40-50 in/lbs. The base gasket should be compressed to
approximately one half inch.
Clear Silicone Sealant:
Primarily this product is used on the sidewalls where a hole has
been made and an item installed. This includes Windows, Doors,
Handles, Beltline Molding, Latches and around bases of items surface
mounted such as clearance lights. Old peeling sealant should be
removed. Avoid using metal utensils which can scratch the painted
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
D I P L O M A T
Care & Maintenance
Roof Care &
Seal Inspections
3 • 7 5