That looks like vinyl "screw cover" trim. It is notorious for shrinking, cracking and falling out of the aluminum trim when exposed to UV. You can buy replacement trim at any RV dealership, online at any RV supply house or from EBay or Amazon. There are several sizes, so take a piece of what you have with you when you go shopping. Typically, 1" is the correct size for most applications.
Is it needed? Cosmetically, yes, it covers the screws that hold the aluminum trim pieces to the trailer. Functionally, it also shields them from water and "may or may not" help prevent leaks around the screw threads into the trailer structure. I keep mine "repaired and secure". Some other owners don't even check to see it it's even still attached. I'd urge you to buy a 100' roll and replace it some Saturday when you don't have anything else on the schedule. Will your trailer fall apart if you don't do it next weekend? No.... Will it "bother you until you fix it"? Probably, now that you know it's broken....
If you're still in warranty, it should be covered, but if you're permanently set up, dragging it in for service will probably be much more involved than just buying a $15 roll of trim and replacing it. Good Luck.....
__________________
John
2015 F250 6.7l 4x4
2014 Cougar X Lite 27RKS
|