Hello, I'm a 67yo new follower/subscriber, I'm also an ASE Certified Master Technician with over 45 years experience in the Automotive/HD Truck/Construction Offroad Equipment as well as having some experience in the Transportation Coach industry with companies such as MCI. So, after many years of not owning an RV, I went ahead and "pulled the trigger" on this 2003 Fleetwood Bounder with a W22 POWER Workhorse 8.1 chassis/Allison with 21k miles that in my opinion, it must have been garaged since it's in mint condition in and out. The unit has 2 slides, one in the bedroom 132" x 24" and a what seems to be a driver side "super slide" (don't have dimensions yet) that pulls out the living room and dinette with both slides having toppers. The bedroom topper has a tear on the rear portion which I'm replacing with a Tough Top topper. I inspected the roof and after a few days of some actual heavy rain here in the High Desert of California, I'm happy to say, it has no leaks, the roof is clean and white and looks to be in pretty great shape, all that except for some small cracks in the sealing material around the vents and areas such as that. So, to my question, since one always hears of so many products that are "magic" and "you'll never, ever need another roof again" 😂 sort of claims, I felt that since you're the RV AZ Expert, you're very detailed and actually "speak fluent tech lingo" which I appreciate btw, I'd like your recommendation, not only on the best product to go over and re-seal these small cracks, but also, one of your videos that would help me to properly achieve this task. I want to add that, there are many KZfaqrs making vids on RVs, and honestly, without giving anyone the feeling that I'm ass-kissing here 😉, as a retired ol'skool tech, I find your videos are by far, the absolute best. You're thorough, have the experience and give clear ways to look for issues and solutions when "RV techin". I saw your video on the drawer/cup holder innovation, and foresaw the magnet issues you had, but all-in-all, that little upgrade was clean, wel throughout and useful. Thanks in advance for your response and videos man, I truly appreciate it/them!...✌️👍🇺🇸

I can't get enough of your repair and inspection videos. Keep them coming. 😀

This poor customer. That's so sad. Great work gentlemen. Even when purchasing a brand new unit I now pay for a PPI. There are so many ins, outs, and electronics galore on new units. There is way too much for the average consumer to think about inspecting and testing. Case in point are my squished, compressed, and unsealed AC ducts. When the inspection was done neither of us thought to check the AC ducting. Being a 46ft unit we both assumed the low air flow was down to the amount of ducting. It wasn't until I had to replace the blower on the zone 1 AC (my primary AC unit for AC and heat pump) for a third time. The tech was perplexed and decided to put an endoscope in the ducts. Sure enough DRVs method of insulating the roof crushes the ducts. Which explains why I can't use the AC unit in the bedroom to heat/cool the main living area. The whole purpose of "race track duct work" is to minimize the noise level of the "whisper quiet" Penguin II units by using the unit furthest away. I've never been able to enjoy a quiet bedroom by utilizing the ACs in zone 1 or 3; there simply is no air flow reaching the bedroom and front bath. The only means to fix this issue is to completely tear the roof apart, replace the crushed ducts, split the insulation to wrap around the new ducts, and reassemble the roof. The quote was astronomical. I'll pass. "The radius is screwed down into the roof decking..."..... Unless the manufacturer, DRV in my case, is cost cutting and used staples. Staples which work themselves out, lift and/or puncture the rubber roof. My roof has several EternaBond patches where staples had to be removed before they pierced the membrane. I've said it before and I'll say it yet again, units built over the last 20 years seam to be built with a five year lifespan to preserve sales and profits; despite all of the marketing claims. It's hilarious to hear the recycled, renewed if you will, claims of improved quality and durability with each new model year. Yet, the same poor quality issues and sharp declining durability rear their ugly head within the first few years; usually just after the warranty has expired. Not to worry though manufacturers are counting on the hatred we have for our nearly new units.. They're there to help solve all of our problems by showing us the "all new and improved" RV of our dreams. What most fail to see is that "all new" unit is the exact same box, built the exact same way, and features many of the same exact same components and appliances they've been using for decades. The only real differences are visual with new graphics, fabrics, and wood colors. And yes there may be a few new tech additions to tip the scale to buy now. Even before we enter the "all unit and improved" unit the sale individual is touting and screaming improved this and that and pointing at stickers highlighting new electronics and gadgets designed to make RVing even easier and stress free than before. Afterall they need to entice us into dumping our old damaged and heavily depreciated unit on their doorstep, with 18 years left on the loan, for a brand new unit. The slick talking finance guys will work their magic to rolling over the 50% depreciation of the damage/neglected unit and the remaining loan balance into the new loan. The sales individuals will say all you need to do is keep the seals in good order to maintain the resale value of your new unit. This way you'll avoid losing so much money when you buy a new unit "five to ten years" down the road. Ya know becausethe love you feel today for your new RV will remain intactfor years to come. Right. That's right you've promised yourself this is the last new unit. You love this unit so much you put "resealing" on your calendar while waiting for a lender to accept the magically configured loan. Of course the sales individual knows even before you leave the lot that you'll be back in just under two years for another new unit. Likely due to you putting off resealing until it was too late. Haha. It's a fun game. If one can afford to play and enjoys doing so there is no reason not to play. New RVs are beautiful, usually include a couple new tech toys and gadgets, fill us with pride, and provide the whole family with memories and joy. Enjoy! Cheers!

Okay, I just want to cry watching this video. I mean seriously. I've watch a couple of your videos and some others have posted and I'm starting to wonder if there are any good motorhomes to get. My husband and I used to tent camp, but are getting older and it's hard to do that. We can't stay in hotels as he has a progressive neurological brain syndrome that causes noise to be a serious issue for him. We bought a 1992 Roadtrek 190 Popular. She is well insulated and with the new curtains I made, she was very quiet and enjoyable. Of course with a 30 year old van, we began experiencing problems of all sorts. Now I am seeking a new motorhome, a little bigger, with a shower, twin beds or queen walk around. As I am looking, I am doing my due diligence and checking out everything about each unit I find. I fell on your channel and am glad I did because I've got my eye on a Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22M. Now I see this and am concerned about how the roof will be. I will for sure look at the rood of anything we get. I have one question for you. Is there any motorhome you recommend the most for having the least trouble? I just don't want to get him on the road and have issues that can set him off. He can't help what his brain does when he gets agitated. It is my goal to keep things as level and nice as possible. Thanks for your reply. Thank you for your channel.

Boy what a mess... I am FAR from an expert, but I've already saved a good friend from making a very expensive mistake an RV, not too dissimilar of a repair was being suggested by one of her "RV buds" for the roof of an RV she had her eye on. I told her to run away, not walk. Water damage ran back through the whole ceiling, occasionally all the way through to the interior liner in spots. Being as it's in San Diego, who knows!! Maybe you'll end up having to fix it 😅

It's about time we got another Winnebago roof replacement and we got to see Bad Chad too. What a glorious day !!!!!

Dearest James, I’m never going to buy an RV without you by my side. I’m horrified at how people are looking to fleece people out of their hard earned money by concealing any and all issues. I’d like to see a law against deception when selling a motorhome be it privately or from a dealership. I’m going to put my trust in your experience as someone who has the knowledge and expertise to find any issues that might be serious or costly. I’m sure the majority of RVS have issues but it’s having the information and costs for repairs that makes buying more under your control. I’m so glad that I met you albeit virtually for now. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge with us 💕⭐️💫

James up on a bad RV roof ... Show time baby!

I so enjoy your educational videos! I have learned so much, so far. Thank you for being so thorough James.

Have you ever fell off one of the roofs? I get nervous sometimes just watching you but you’re a pro. That looks like a very expensive repair but you’re the man.

James, there is no way you charge what this should cost. This is an incredible amount of work

Getting out of the sun will make the job easier and fun..Great job as usual.I appreciate your work ethic.

Yikes. What a mess. Glad I’m one of your regular viewers who won’t be making this particular mistake anytime soon.

There definitely is a way to patch that up correctly and that's not how lol 😂 that's all messed up. I feel bad for people that have to deal with this kind of stuff. Always a good laugh and some anxiety when I see stuff like this.

Seems like the last roof repair video was posted in january 2022? Chadster at work ! First item I checked a few yrs ago on our 1st rv purchase search was the roof. Dealer did not want me on the ladder, on the roof, nothing. I told them: If I do not see the roof, I will leave... I saw the roof. I did Not purchase that rv. thanks bunch for the videos

Nice start James looking forward to part 2

Wow...another warning on the Winnebago. Always a couple of chuckles and oh boy..wow.

Glad to see the Dream Team together again!!!!! Stay safe

Sure appreciate your expertise. Thank you James and Chad for another job well done. Happy trails!

My roof seals were needing replacing. I replace them every 5 years. I did them all in about an hours time. It was so easy! Was so proud of myself! My Roof is a spray in bed liner kind of roof..The RV man that replaced my roof said that it would last me a lifetime. I wash and clean my roof and whole RV about 3-4 times a year! Its a 2012 and looks like new! Love Love Love my RV its a Kingsport by Conquest made very well..Happy Trails! Thanks for the videos

Good to see you Chad we miss you!!!

Amazing video not only showing what you find, but also your advice on new RV's and dealing with warranty items if you bought the unit. Not a great image for the industry; not new news.

I always love your shows. They are all educational.

Good start James! Thanks for sharing with us!

Looking forward to the next part!

Ahhh another roof Mr. Filon!!!

Thanks for the informative video! I have a 2001 Winnebago Minnie class C that has a fiberglass roof. So far I have had absolutely no issues with leaking except for a few cracks on the skylight which I sealed with Heng's NuFlex self leveling sealant. Can't justify spending $600 on a replacement skylight at this point. Hopefully the roof will be good for several more years

Thank you James. We are on Motorhome number 8. Purchased our first in 1986. All used except our 1996 class C Itasca and our 2022 Winnebago Vista class A. We had a 2004 Four Winds with a roof leak. Inspection after inspection kept telling us it was window and front cap window related. I practically gutted the bathroom, bedroom and front bunk area before finding a small cut in the rubber roof. At 10 years old and the other issues it caused, we needed a new roof. I appreciate your emphasis on roof issues. We have lived it. And paid the price. And after seeing your critique ( and criticism) about the Winnebago roof system, we are keeping our fingers crossed the system holds for 10 years or more plus I inspect the radius every month or two. And will be calling your shop in the near future. Thank you again .

hi - love your videos, learning a lot by looking how things are attached and how they "should" look like!

Yeah, hi Chad

I have a 2005 istica spirit class c that also needs a new roof I have the sides separated from the plywood like this. And a spot up front where the plywood is delamenated. No wacky repairs to fix as with this one. But after watching a lot of your videos I am anxously awaiting part 2 to see what to expect as far as framing goes to make the plan for new roof and solar panels then I am ready to go full time. Thank you for your videos I really enjoy them as well as getting the knowledge I seek and a lot more :)

I love your repair videos. I hope who ever got this got a really good price. I am no expert but I can see from your video this thing needs ton of work and I haven't even seen the engine. I would and I am sure you did recommend replacing the AC sense you have already got it off and that way everything on the roof would be new especially if its the original one. I know its probably not but I would recommend replacing it anyway. This thing will be a money pit it needs a lot of work on the outside like I said I hope the engine is good along with plumbing. One thing I have learned from watching your channel and others I never want a Winnebago. Good luck with it and keep showing the repair videos

Wow, imagine the shady SOB that would sell that thing without saying something about that kind of issue. Side note, what was up with the Rental RV next to it missing the front cap?

Thank goodness my WGO view roof is good I inspected before I bought

I tackled my first awning repair after watching your videos. I have now moved on and am working on my first roof replacement--after watching your videos. Great stuff. My business is going gang busters in Santa Barbara. When it's hotter than hades in Mesa, how about you come out to Santa Barbara and do some roofs with me and I'd be happy to come lend a hand in Mesa. :)

It's almost like James knows what's he's doing . Another good video 👍

the right guy for the job !

A two-parter! Fun!!

Excellent video...thanks

Couldn't afford inspection, bought RV out of necessity, needed ASAP. Totally regret due to all the issues. Disability prevents climbing.

Before the roof I first check the bottom of the slides. So many are rotted out because the bottom moulding fails.

Damn James they sure rely on a lot of compression to hold stuff together wow

You didn’t mention the slide out cover missing. Tell Chad, happy to see him! He gives you crap! 😈. Best wishes, Kevin

I think you got had. They had to know that was a mess up there and bought it anyway. The owner’s brother was like “... I got this friend and he knows a guy...”

Nice cruise America in the background. We all know what the renter did to that one! Great video as always.

I am a real dude. My new 2022 Class C Winnebago Minnie Winnie had roof bubbles and leaking sky light within 6 months of purchase, among other problems. I am so dissatisfied with my Winnebago service. I dropped my new Winnebago off over a month ago to Lazy Dayz with no repair date in sight. I was instructed to wait 2 months for the appointment while the water collected and exacerbated the problems with the roof. I'm living the RV life!

that cruise america rig at 4:52 tho, OOOF!!

Good job

The more I wafch your Winnebago roof inspections. The less well I sleep in my 1993 Winnebago Adventurer..lol

OK let’s get that second episode out ASAP. I’m tapping my toe over here

How do you fix the interior ceiling of a 2005 Tiffin Allegro Open Road? Took old tube style TV cabinet out cause I kept bumping my head on it and now there are holes in the ceiling and walls from the screws. Also, some delamination in interior ceiling due to leaking shower skylight.

Ouch! That's quite a scar.

Have you ever made a video about your history and how you learned so much about rvs? That would be cool to watch

Hey James, another very informative video. About how much would it cost to replace a roof on a RV of this size, just a ballpark figure?

How much would a roof job like this cost approximately? I'm looking to buy a Winnebago and would like to know this cost risk to factor into the sale. Thanks so much for sharing this info! I had no idea these roofs were built this way.

All my life I was told to tell the truth and never become a liar. I’m not the smartest guy but most 5he time I don’t need to be. There always seems to be one around. Your integrity and reputation are hard to establish and so easy to lose. The seller may have gotten over on this buyer but I have to believe this isn’t his only indiscretion and eventually he will be found out.

So how do you fix the radius on the roof? We have one section that is soft

I bought my diesel pusher with no inspection and still feeling the pain of repairs best to get inspection 120 hours of work and counting

Would it be safe to say that Winnebago roofs are junk?? I'm surprised they don't use a ridged radius and only rely on the roof overlay material to create the radius. Also the cross section..WTH..I can't believe you were able to walk on the roof with that flimsy luan-styrofoam-luan roof!!! Wow. Seems like a recipe for failure from the get go. Would be interesting as to what the quote was for doing this type of job? Great video by the way!

Question? We just purchased a Keystone Sprinter Fifth wheel, the roof is fine but a month ago we were in Sturgis had a Tornado warning we bugged out when the winds started to kick up and found a valley to wait in. When we left the winds grabbed the door and slammed it against the camper. I didn't think anything happened but in the morning I saw where the hinges were attached to the door had bent the door frame. I have full insurance on the camper so the repair is covered. I called Keystone and they said I can't buy anything from them directly? I have to go-to a authorized Keystone facility to get the door replacement? We are full time and dropping the camper off for a simple door swap 9 screws. And living in a motel while waiting just doesn't work for us! Yes our insurance will cover the Motel cost but we would also need to rent a storage unit to put our valuables in . How does a Keystone owner get a new door? The insurance will reimburse us I don't even care if the new door has the matching decals. This reminds me of the whole Right to Repair issue where companies won't allow an owner to fix something simple without paying an authorized agent to do the repairs.

So I have a rv I’m renovating and it’s a membrane roof, some areas on the sides, 2 places are (delaminated) about a foot in from the edge. One is about a 3 foot long section and the other about 5 feet. Any tips on repairs or fixes that are budget friendly. Thanks

Wow I had no idea how flimsy these things are built. I’ll stick with my Beaver 😊

Hi James, what a shame that there is such damage. Who doesn’t at least get up on the roof to take a look? Also, I’m sorry to keep bringing this up but I swear that your going to fall off a roof. I’m sure the camera makes it look worse than it is but man…..I just cringe every time your 3 inches from the edge or hanging over the front cap. In any event, great video and good to see Chad too! Take care. 👍

Is Nuflex 311 or Sika 715 and adequate replacement?

Great tips man! Wow wennie roofs suck

If I were to replace my own roof and patch some of the wood. Would it be any benefit to throw a blanket of fiberglass and resin over the luan?

How do I know which lap sealant they used? You keep saying on your videos to use the same, how can you tell what kind they used in the factory?

Could you use O' HENRY'S roof coating! It seems to work well as a roll-on roof coating that seals very well on houses and hangars? 🤔😁👍👍🇺🇸 CCCCCCHAAAAAAAD! 😁👍👍🇺🇸

Great Video, can you tell me the average cost of an rv inspection, 2023 newmar 4369 ?

Which roof is the toughest of the class A’s in the 90’s to mid 2000’s era? That’s my budget, under 25k preferably 20k. Thanks!

For me the bottom line is don’t purchase a Winnebago as it will likely become a Winnie moldy!

I don't know why people don't store their RV's in a covered storage. It extends the life of the roof

Do you have any contact for older decals like 2005 ?

Do you work at Cassones or do they just hire out roof replacement jobs??

James or anyone else. About how much does a new roof cost for a Class C like this?

I would love to know what they paid for this rig it does appear to be in pretty great shape besides the roof which sucks hopefully they didnt pay a ton

James, what does a roof replacement cost?

Roughly what does that new roof cost?...Thanks...

What does a new roof cost?

Where are you located?

Pretty sure James will never own a Winnebago class C RV:)

Holy cow did someone take the roof off a rental RV? Tree branches??

How much did the poor new owner pay for this class C? 🍻

With RESPECT to you, Sir: - "An" RV before the vowel sound "R" 🇬🇧 ☺

Note to self: Don't purchase a Winnebago

Winnie Moldy strikes again 🤢 A $1 value rv, IMO!

I'm guessing that roof repair cost as much as that good deal RV cost if not more.

Lesson is... don't buy Winnebago.

Buying an RV is one of the best ways to get rid of money. Borrowing money to buy one is the definition of stupid.

Good to see HONEST PEOPLE who work hard .... 👍🏜