About to install my slide toppers - question

[wrvond]

I've got my LCI Solera slide toppers ready to begin installation but have a question.
The standard is to use butyl rubber tape behind the mounting plates but I'm not a fan of how butyl rubber ages, hardens and has to be replaced. I've also noticed that butyl rubber is not used anywhere on my camper.
So, I've got tubes of Lexel, which I'd like to use instead of butyl rubber. This isn't a silicone sealant.
I'm thinking it'll work much better than butyl rubber but I'd like input from folks that are up to date on things like acceptable sealants for use on newer campers.

Thanks!

[Bustinbeards]

The butyl rubber will make it so you can remove the topper if ever needed, is very easy to work with and creates a good seal. Not sure if I’d go the lexel route IMHO.

[travelin texans]

Originally Posted by wrvond

I've got my LCI Solera slide toppers ready to begin installation but have a question.
The standard is to use butyl rubber tape behind the mounting plates but I'm not a fan of how butyl rubber ages, hardens and has to be replaced. I've also noticed that butyl rubber is not used anywhere on my camper.
So, I've got tubes of Lexel, which I'd like to use instead of butyl rubber. This isn't a silicone sealant.
I'm thinking it'll work much better than butyl rubber but I'd like input from folks that are up to date on things like acceptable sealants for use on newer campers.

Thanks!

My issue would be like the 10-12 year warranty on your roof, it covers everything but incorrect installation which is the majority of roof issues other than user abuse.
With that said I'd guess there's some type of limited warranty on your awnings, if installed as directed, which you are not.
It's your rv, your $$, your labor, your choice!
I wouldn't say "yay" or "nay".

[jsb5717]

Personally I would use the Butyl Tape. When not in the sun, like behind the mounting hardware, it stays pliable for lots of years. And, yes, easy to remove if needed. I've used the Butyl Tape for a variety of applications over the years and never had it leak.

Once installed, I wouldn't feel badly about cap beading the mounting hardware with a Dicor non-self leveling sealant for added insurance.

[chuckster57]

We use butyl tape behind everything that is mounted to the RV. You can use an RV rated sealant around the mounting brackets if you want. If installing a rail, we put the screws under the rail opening so you don’t have any exposed screws.

[wrvond]

Originally Posted by chuckster57

We use butyl tape behind everything that is mounted to the RV. You can use an RV rated sealant around the mounting brackets if you want. If installing a rail, we put the screws under the rail opening so you don’t have any exposed screws.

Not installing rails - the Cougar came with the rails pre-installed. All I have to install is the brackets on the slide outs. But I didn't think of checking to see how the factory sealed those rails.

Covering the edges with butyl under the mounting plates isn't a bad idea either. Nothing says it has to be an either/or situation...