Hi Don, I will take a whack at answering your question. My answer will either stand good or smoke out a better one.
RTV stands for "Room Temperature Vulcanizing" which is a process where a semi liquid product is applied to a surface at room temperature, then sets up into a flexible rubber like material without applying any external heat. Silicone Caulk is a family of products that will perform to the standards of RTV when applied and exposed to air at room temperature. The exothermic curing process of Silicone based products give off Acetic Acid (the Vinegar smell you get) in a gaseous state as they "Cure". This Acetic acid will attack the Aluminum on your Airstream, and cause ugly places and start the oxidation process that will creep under your clear coat and spread the ugly. This is the reason it is not recommended you use any "Silicone Based Caulks" on your skin Aluminum. It can be used in places where it is away from the skin and the acid fumes will not cause a problem. The secret is to look for other products that will perform like RTV, but do not give off the acid. There are several in any hardware or home supply store (they DO NOT contain silicone). The same goes for any place that sells supplies for boat repair. I usually stock up when I go to Camping World if I have used any of my supply. I also check all my tubes at least one time each year to be sure they are still in their soft semi liquid state by just mashing on the tube - don't crack the seal to do this. Like I said at the beginning, this will keep you from making ugly places on your Aluminum or get you a better answer. I hope it helps. Joe Scudder WBCCI 8624 > > What Is RTV Silicone caulk? Is there a brand name? Where can > you get it? > > Thanks > > Don > To unsubscribe from this group, go to http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/AirstreamList/ and unsubscribe. To suspend delivery while traveling, simply change the delivery option to No Mail-Web only. Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AirstreamList/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
