This thread will be for information purposes only. I wouldn't recommend attempting this, but for me it seems that its the best option at this time. Not for the purpose of bashing Forest River either. I'm am at a place that I'm going to deal with the problem rather than complain. I am not happy about it though...
Preface...
I purchased a 2012 Forester in Feb 2012. Other than some chassis trouble which took Ford a couple of times to rectify the experience has been mostly positive. I noticed some discoloration on the vinyl soft touch ceiling a while back. I checked the seams and everything looked fine. I have inspected it before this and all seemed ok. I assumed it was from the heat etc. No signs of moisture was ever present and I even peeled back the vinyl a few different times and it wasn't wet. I wash the roof 2-3 times a year and keep it clear of debri. Its been stored outside for about 2.5 of the 3 years I've owned it. The discoloration began to grow and I upon my most recent inspection the front two corners of the roof are soft. The caulk seems pretty good, but since the roof is soft when pressed on seems to stress the seam.
My best guess is a small leak started long ago, but there was never any evidence to me of failed seal. I checked the back corners only to now find that one corner is also doing the same thing with discolored vinyl. Perhaps my inspection wasn't sufficient, but I am an average user so be aware. The seams appeared in good condition and then suddenly weren't. But, the routine small amount of moisture has deteriorated the laun.
These pictures are looking at the passenger side corner from the inside. Notice that black rotted inner laun compared to the portions of dry brown colored laun. Lots of condensation on the foam. The wood is soaked.
The plan is to remove rot, return rigidity to the corners with new wood, refinish the inside, recaulk the seams and externabond over all the seams. Assuming I don't run into anything that prevents that.
Also visible is the metal tube at the front that coincides directly below the front cap seam. Does anyone know distance back to the next aluminum support? Also does anyone know if the fiberglass is bonded to the luan top decking or does it float?