Four Wheel Camper - Roof Repair in SoCal?

[2002tacomaPDX]

Sadly, my roof was damaged while parking the other day (overhanging branch). The roof and bedframe are dented in pretty good, and now the camper won't open entirely. To have the company repair it costs more than the camper is worth. Anybody know a shop or person in Southern California that can repair these campers? They are constructed differently than a typical RV so I'm hesitant to take it to an RV shop. Any contacts would be much appreciated!

 

[Superduty]

What material is the roof and dented side made of?

IF aluminum, i would try a not so busy body shop in a lower income area. They should be able straighten out the dents.



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[VanIsle_Greg]

Honestly that looks like something you could fix on your own if you are handy. You can likely pull out the side of the bed sufficiently to straighten that piece (or a combination or pulling and pushing at the same time)? The roof can probably be stretched back into shape with some careful hammering and gentle pressure? The roof probably wont look 100% but you should be able to get it serviceable and sealed. I bet the side of the camper will go back to close to 100% stock.

Aluminum is more forgiving than many metals, but it has its limits. You can also try an RV shop... the ones around here do roof replacements, fiberglass warranty and repair work, so something like this should be in their wheelhouse.

 

[Photobug]

Honestly that looks like something you could fix on your own if you are handy. You can likely pull out the side of the bed sufficiently to straighten that piece (or a combination or pulling and pushing at the same time)? The roof can probably be stretched back into shape with some careful hammering and gentle pressure? The roof probably wont look 100% but you should be able to get it serviceable and sealed. I bet the side of the camper will go back to close to 100% stock.

I am going to second this opinion. If you take it to a cheap RV shop they are basically going to be doing the same thing.

Instead of banging on it directly use a 2x4 or some plywood to spread the load to not dent it any worse. If you have no tools consider going to harbor freight and buy a mallet and some clamps and squeeze and bang it back into shape then seal it up. Even if you only get it closer to the correct shape an RV shop can then patch it up from there.