by Chuck » Fri Sep 10, 2004 3:35 pm
Dave:
You'll likely get lots of different opinions on this. I'm building my first teardrop, and am not too much further along than you. After much reading, I glued the sides with spray adhesive (3M Super Trim Adhesive), and floated the top. Grant Whipp seems to be a big advocate of NO ADHESIVE for the top. The adhesive under the sides will likely tear free as the sides expand and contract, but the sides will be fastened by the various trim pieces.
The trim between the top and sides bends very easily, if you buy soft aluminum trim. The stuff at Home Depot isn't soft, and needs to be annealed. I used "GE Silicone II Aluminum and Metal" under the trim. It's supposed to seal well and stay pliable. It was nice stuff to work with.
You also have the choice of stainless steel screws to hold the top trim, or aluminum drive screws. I went with drive screws, and was happy with how they went in. I'll use stainless screws for other trim parts.
Other people will likely respond, who didn't do a single thing like I did. More than one way to skin a cat! Best of luck.
Chuck