Cover for our pup

[endless horizons]

Hi everyone,

We have a 2002 coleman sun valley. We kept it in a garage for 2 years but now that it has sat in the elements for 2 years you can really see the fading. The last time it was mentioned here was 5/07. Any updated advice? It is in a storage parking and I cannot use a carport type cover.

Thanks
Maggie

[sewserious]

At the top of page 48 in the 2002 Coleman manual, it has a BIG warning to NOT use a tarp or cover on the camper because of the ABS roof.

[waygard33]

The manual provided with my new Fleetwood does say, "Do Not Cover Trailer with a Tarp".

However, my Fleetwood dealer tried to sell me a Cover. I think there's a difference between a big Blue Tarp that completely covers everything and the Cover they sell.

The cover is a solid material on the top with mesh type side material. This will protect the top from the worst of the weather and still allow air in and around the sides, and still help keep bugs out of the covers (IMHO).

I plan to cover mine with this type of cover this winter, but not a tarp.

[sewserious]

You also don't have an ABS roof that can warp.  The 2002 owner's manual is specific to that particular year.  They are not one-size-fits-all.

[Used 2B PopUPTimes]

I cover mine down to the middle of the door. The AC keeps the cover from sticking to the roof allowing air to flow underneath keeping the mildew from growing too fast.  The mfrs say their campers are built to be outdoors and don't need to be covered but I can't stand how grimy mine gets if I don't cover it.

I have always used Covercraft Snapring Tirecovers on my campers in the driveway and my tires always look new.

d.

[endless horizons]

Thank you for your replies. My model does not have ac. We are considering getting one installed but not for a while.

Yes I know the owners manual says not to cover it but it is fading and I agree with Dave, it looks terrible. I have asked friends who have campers and trailers if thier manual askes them not to cover also. Some do some don't.  They all cover but didn't go blue tarp or cheep quality.

Hmm, Now to convince my hubby to get one.

Thanks and happy camping

Maggie

[sewserious]

There is a reason why it says not to cover it.  The heat build up, etc, etc, will cause that type of roof to bubble up and then delaminate.  IT IS PLASTIC!  If you really want to cover it, go ahead, but you will have worse problems on your hands than a faded, diry looking roof.

BTW, have you tried good old bleach on it?  There are also paints made for plastic nowadays that could probably be used to restore it back to the original look, but it will have to be cleaned thoroughly first.

[endless horizons]

I'm so sorry but what is an abs roof? and is this models roof made differently in that year compared to the ones befor or after?  I'm really confused. I would not want to do anything to harm my popup. I was a gift to me from my husband. It just looks like it is asking to be covered with something thats all. Please explain.


thanks
Maggie

[sewserious]

As I state above, an ABS roof is made of a type of plastic.  If your roof is a one-piece roof, it is solid with no seams, it is ABS.  It will warp, bubble, and delaminate if covered because of heat buildup.  Your owner's manual is always the best bet for deciding whether or not to do something.

Here is the definition of ABS.  Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or ABS, (chemical formula (C8H8