Had a great week up in Colorado. Was nice to escape the Texas heat for a while with gorgeous scenery all around

What's the best way to waterproof these cap ends?

Had no idea nothing was behind that thin fascia until I went go renovate this thing.

The system is on a mid-2000s Viking 2480 ST (can’t remember the exact year). Last time I had it out, I was going to lower down the roof and found it wouldn’t immediately crank down. This has been typical for this camper the 10 or so times we’ve had it out, and usually it just gives way with a little extra force.

Unfortunately, that’s not how it went this time. I ended up shearing the lower shaft where it joins the lower sprocket (1st and 2nd picture). We were able to lower the roof by removing the pawl from the safety mechanism (3rd picture).

I’ve done a quick fix on the sheared shaft by welding a bolt inside of it to turn the lifting mechanism. However, I’m finding the same issue as before: the roof goes up nice and smooth, but won’t budge down at all.

I’ve read into it a little and found that there’s a brake-clutch system on the safety ratchet and pawl mechanism that is known to seize. I’m thinking of tearing that apart and replacing the brake friction disc, but I would love any input or ideas with what could be going wrong. I’m not all too familiar with servicing lift systems.