Trillium-removing belly band & filling in.

[hrose414]

I've just removed my bellyband and all of the metal pieces, now I'm about to fill in the gap in the Fiberglass. I know I've come across some topics where people have done this, but I can find them now. I'm looking for the best way to fill it. Bondo the gap & then grind down the gel coat & Fiberglass the outer part? This is what I'm thinking just curious if I'm on the right track. I've never fiberglassed before, any help is appreciated!


Sent from my iPhone using Fiberglass RV

[Jeff T H]

Give industrial plastic and paints a call.

[Borrego Dave]

Originally Posted by hrose414

I've just removed my bellyband and all of the metal pieces, now I'm about to fill in the gap in the Fiberglass. I know I've come across some topics where people have done this, but I can find them now. I'm looking for the best way to fill it. Bondo the gap & then grind down the gel coat & Fiberglass the outer part? This is what I'm thinking just curious if I'm on the right track. I've never fiberglassed before, any help is appreciated!


Sent from my iPhone using Fiberglass RV

Hi, sounds like you're wanting to get away from the band all together, is that right? First off, working with FG isn't all that hard, but it is a bit messy. Getting rid of the band on the outside is one thing. But you say you've removed the band and all the metal pieces, would those be on the inside? Those are what hold the shells together as the band is just a trim item, nothing else. From what I remember of others doing the same thing you want to do, they glassed over the seam on the inside between the metal tabs so the shell didn't move from where it was, then removed them and glassed that part in. The outside takes some grinding and filling for a good paintable finish.
I'm sure you'll get the info you're asking for from the members that have done this same mod along with pics for you.

[Raz]

Lots of threads on this. Good luck with your project, Raz

Trillium belly band

[David Tilston]

Originally Posted by Borrego Dave

But you say you've removed the band and all the metal pieces, would those be on the inside? Those are what hold the shells together as the band is just a trim item, nothing else.

The metal tabs are only necessary when the trailer is made. The belly band and tabs are a system for lining up the top and bottom halves. Then they run a fibreglass bandage around the inside. Once this sets up, the belly band, and the tabs are no longer required.

I have done this job twice now. My approach may seem kinda radical, but I went for maximum strength. I think my approach will be less susceptible to cracks.

http://www.fiberglassrv.com/forums/f...ead-58763.html
http://www.fiberglassrv.com/forums/f...ead-59580.html

I have not painted either of the trailers yet. Next summer I guess.