Fixing trim/type of nail gun to get

[60356jai]

We are at 2 and half years of really enjoying our Solitude we ordered. Im actually a bit handier than I thought at small repairs. I can’t pack the wheel bearings as that’s a bit more involved for me anyway. I’m looking for a good nail gun to fix trim as it inevitably comes loose inside the rig. I suppose it would be small nails used in it. Any suggestions out there for a good one to buy?

 

[Capt Bob]

OK, I’ll bite.
I have a Bostitch 18 gauge brad nailer but…
This is a pneumatic tool that requires an air source. I have a Mikita compressor (small and quiet) that I use. This is a very good tool (IMHO) and has worked well in our trailer.

Another route might be a staple gun. I have both manual and pneumatic but have not use either on the MLE. Whatever method you choose, I would recommend adding a touch of glue to the attachment mix.

Good luck.

 

[traveldawg]

A few small packs of brads and small nails and a hammer and a nail setter. That has been working well for me for a lot of years.

Need to get some colored wood filler putty too and maybe a touch up pen to match the wood.

I have used an air nailer for some things when at home. An inexpensive brad nailer air gun and small brads from Harbor Freight works well; NOT a pin nailer - that's why trim pieces are falling off to begin with.

 

[Capt Bob]

A few small packs of brads and small nails and a hammer and a nail setter. That has been working well for me for a lot of years.

Need to get some colored wood filler putty too and maybe a touch up pen to match the wood.

I have used an air nailer for some things when at home. An inexpensive brad nailer air gun and small brads from Harbor Freight works well; NOT a pin nailer - that's why trim pieces are falling off to begin with.

I fully agree. If you just plan on using it to repair your trailer, go the less costly route. I use my nail guns for construction work so I can justify the cost. Traveldawg makes a great case for old school repair. There is still something to be said for using one’s own power to repair/finish a job.

Whatever route you choose, good luck.

 

[jjbbrewer]

Personally, I prefer using screws to repair trim, moulding, etc.
They take more time and money, but they won't pull out nearly as easily as nails and staples.

 

[Chaps2018]

Agree with above posters.

I prefer pneumatic brad nails to re-mount simple trim pieces (have also seen some OEMs use caulk to help hold in place) . However some stubborn trim pieces that are more susceptible to working loose needed staples since they have more holding power.

If using pneumatic tools consider something like this tool NEU MASTER Pneumatic Brad Nailer, 2 in 1 Nail Gun Staple Gun Fires 18 Gauge 2 Inch Brad Nails and Crown 1-5/8 inch Staples with Carrying Case and Safety Glasses https://a.co/d/6HS8LS2

 

[trailrydr]

FYI....they do make electric brad nailer/stapler combos too. Have one in our 5er that we got from Harbor Freight for $20 just for such occasions. BTW, used ours for several successful trim projects on the RV.

 

[huntindog]

Get a pin nailer. It shoots headless pins slightly below the surface of the trim making them invisable. The trick is shoot the pins in at opposing angles. Like this "W" This will lock the trim in place. If it ever needs to be removed, use a putty knife to pry it off. The pins will stay in the wall. Pull them out with pliers,The trim can be installed again using the pin nailer.

 

[huntindog]

A few small packs of brads and small nails and a hammer and a nail setter. That has been working well for me for a lot of years.

Need to get some colored wood filler putty too and maybe a touch up pen to match the wood.

I have used an air nailer for some things when at home. An inexpensive brad nailer air gun and small brads from Harbor Freight works well; NOT a pin nailer - that's why trim pieces are falling off to begin with.

Shoot the pins in at opposing angles to lock it in place. Done the right way, it won't fall off

 

[60356jai]

I’m going to try all the above! A long but fun learning process?

 

[CedarCreekWoody]

If you go the pneumatic route consider narrow guage staples versus brads. They leave a slightly visible head but will not pull out like brads.

 

[jleonard]

Don't go pneumatic. Get a battery powered one. All the major companies make them.

 

[Thorvald]

Yes brad or pin, if your cheap get the Ryobi one but honestly I’d recommend the Milwaukee or Dewalt (whatever battery system you have, grab that model). Single mail is useless and will pull right out after a few trips… ask how I know. Dealer repaired trim on our last trailer and all they did was run around with a brad nailer stuffing nails everywhere. Fixed for a few weeks…

Huntindog has it right, make a W with two nails if you are using a gun. Just watch out for wiring etc.

 

[Riverbug]

I started using crazy glue (whatever the harbor freight gel version is) instead of my brad nail gun. Requires you to keep pressure on for a minute but seems to hold better for most applications so far.