2000 FWC Hawk build

[WesAlan]

Just picked up a new to me, 2000 FWC Hawk. Just started with a deep cleaning inside and out and came across a few things.

1. The top lip of the lower portion of the camper had deteriorating foam that could not be salvaged so it was scrubbed down to the aluminum. Would it be necessary/ or any reasoning to put something else on top of this lip?

2. A few of my roof latches are not to be trusted due to the amount of rust. They measure at 4 3/4 inches, not able to find the same size online but have emailed FWC. Any other ideas for where to find the same size?

3. Original sticker stains. Read somewhere that goo gone could potentially pull the paint? Other options for cleaning?

Thanks for any information. The flooring is peeling due to age so that will probably be the first project.

 

[TacomaAustin]

"2. A few of my roof latches are not to be trusted due to the amount of rust. They measure at 4 3/4 inches, not able to find the same size online but have emailed FWC. Any other ideas for where to find the same size?"

Is this latch close enough? - https://www.ebay.com/itm/282911837170

 

[PokyBro]

WesAlan,

When I did my rebuild of a 1981 Grandby, I used thin auto carpet material I bought at Walmart, which I cut into 4-5” wide strips, and then use spray on contact cement to adhere it around the perimeter of the camper body, sandwiched between the inside paneling and the outside metal siding. Not sure how easy that would be if applying without disassembly, but maybe you could at least pull back inside paneling. It is proving to be very durable, and not likely to deteriorate.

Regarding the clamps, mine were not as rusted as yours, so I was able to clean, sand, primer and paint. They’re holding up well so far. I would elect to go with your eBay find, they look to be the same as FWC uses.

 

[bajaphile]

I tried contacting FWC several times without reply about the latches (left voicemails) and ended up buying them through McMaster which appeared to be an exact replacement. Looks to be the same as the eBay ones linked above.

I replaced the #8 screws with #10 screws as mine were rusted as well.

https://www.mcmaster.com/1807A57/

 

[BellaFWC]

I have a 2000 Hawk as well. I'll post a few of the stickers on mine still in OK shape. I have one of those vinyl cutters and was planning on making new FWC stickers some time.

Also my Hawk has the foam on that top rail all the way around still in OK shape, just a little gummy or sticky. How was it cleaning it off?

 

[WesAlan]

Thanks for all of the replies. The foam came off super easy with just wet paper towel then wiped it again with some goo gone.