Flexordion Accordion Boot FAQ
These frequently asked questions explain how to measure, fit, and install a Flexordion accordion-style pass-through boot for truck cabs, camper shells, sleepers, and custom vehicle projects.
1. How do I determine the correct size opening for an accordion boot pass-through installation?
The accordion boot comes in various lengths. When ordering, choose the length closest to your opening. There are two common ways to measure.
First, use a flexible measuring tape. Lay the tape along the edge of the opening and work your way around until you return to the starting point. This gives you the perimeter measurement.
Second, measure the width of the opening at its widest point, then measure the height at its highest point. Use this formula to estimate the perimeter:
(2 × width) + (2 × height)
This method works best for square, rectangular, or trapezoid-shaped openings. If your measurements are in inches, convert the final measurement to feet before ordering.
2. Will the accordion boot keep out water, dust, wind, and noise?
When properly installed, the accordion boot will help keep out water, dust, and wind. It can also reduce some noise. The primary noise reduction is from wind, though there may also be some reduction in road noise.
3. How much movement or flex can the boot handle between the truck cab and camper shell?
The Series 541 boot compresses down to approximately 2 inches and expands to approximately 4.5 inches. Depending on the installation, lateral movement is typically about 1 inch.
4. What materials is the accordion boot made from, and how durable is it over time?
The main material is EPDM, a synthetic rubber with excellent properties that make it well suited for this product.
EPDM rubber is a durable synthetic rubber material known for its excellent resistance to weather, UV exposure, ozone, moisture, and temperature extremes. Because it remains flexible over time, EPDM is commonly used in automotive seals, roofing systems, and outdoor applications where long-term durability and environmental resistance are important.
Embedded in the rubber is a metal clip. This clip allows the boot to clamp securely onto a thin wall or flange. The mounting surface can be made from fiberglass, steel, aluminum, or similar materials.
5. Does the boot require adhesives to install properly?
Under normal circumstances, the boot does not require adhesive. The embedded metal clip is designed to hold the boot securely in place.
6. How do I measure the distance between the cab and enclosure to ensure proper fitment?
The gap distance should be measured from flange to flange. One important consideration is making sure the boot has room to flex.
The maximum expansion of the boot is approximately 4.5 inches. For best performance, it is recommended that the maximum distance between the flanges be about 3.5 inches. Installing the boot at its maximum expansion limits its ability to move.
7. Can the accordion boot be installed in unique openings or fabrication projects?
Yes. Most openings are basically rectangular, but because the boot is flexible, other shapes such as circles, ovals, and triangles may also work.
The key requirement is that each corner should have at least a 1-inch radius or some type of angled transition to soften the corner.
8. What happens if the truck cab and camper shell openings are not perfectly aligned?
For the boot to fit properly, both openings should be the same size and shape, and they should line up with each other.
If the openings are different sizes, fabrication may be required to make them match. This may involve adding or removing material from one of the compartment openings.
9. Will the accordion boot hold up to UV exposure, extreme temperatures, and off-road use?
The boot is made with EPDM synthetic rubber, which has excellent properties for resisting UV exposure and temperature extremes. It is also well suited for off-road use when properly installed.
10. Can the boot be removed later for maintenance or modifications without damaging the boot?
The accordion boot is not designed for repeated removal. It should remain installed on the vehicle. Although removal is simple, taking the boot off can weaken the metal clip and may sometimes dislodge the metal from the rubber.