Looking into the cabinet under the sink, I see some kind of wall board materiel. Anyone know what this is and how thick?. Looks like maybe 1/4 inch.
Cap'n, I think it's thinner and made of mahogany veneer with a colored plastic show layer, but don't quote me; my camper's from the early part of the century.
I personally treat the camper's skin like it was my own- I make sure I know what's to be done (even by 'experts') and that it's necessary before poking it. Here's what has worked for me:
+Starting with a stud finder on the inside, I map out the edges of where the frames might be. I put light pencil marks on the walls and confirm that things line up 'rationally'.
+I confirm there is a solid center between two edges by tapping a dowel rod pressed to the wall surface with one hand using light hammer blows. I am listening for a change in timbre.
+I do 'take offs' of my localized measurements and transfer them to the outside.
+I repeat the dowel - tapping routine on the outside to reaffirm.
+I start with a small hole (not e.g., with a hole saw) to explore.
Good luck, and may the force be ever so lightly with you.
Is there any concern when using screws in the frame about
Galvanic Corrosion?
I know it is best to use metals as close together on this chart as possible (the farther apart, the more corrosion potential):
Galvanic Guide
This is my first foray into "aluminum frame" construction. With wood we only really worry about moisture
What about sealants? I know silicone works but is a pain later on because nothing sticks to cured silicone - not even silicone - so maintenance and repair becomes more of a pain. I would probably want to dab a touch of sealant on any screws I mount so what would be preferred?
I have a few things I want to mount to the outside of the camper and I would like to do it "right" as possible. Although, since I am an analyst I tend to over-think things. Haha!
I share your concern, Mr. raider. I try to use
http://www.finishing.com/ for these types of questions. Here is the advice I found there:
Finish for stainless steel to prevent galvanic action with aluminum
The upshot is that 18-8 will still cause aluminum to 'sacrifice', esp. in salt water environments. The consensus seems to be to "wet install" the fasteners with calking or wet paint at the points of contact.
Perhaps you over-think, perhaps not; you are definitely in company...
