Fuel tank sealant is used to seal gaps around access panels and fair-in covers and other structural elements in lots of aircraft. Paint also adheres well to fuel tank sealant. Maybe you could seal the gaps with some PR1440 and wrap over them?
__________________
Mike Hammond
A&P IA PPL ASEL
RV-14A kit S/N 140170
I meant no disrespect about the spanned gaps and intentionally left out any specific information about any specific aircraft. I do, however, know the difference between speed tape and vinyl and this was definitely a case of the vinyl spanning the step. Perhaps it just popped out because it was new and just needed to be re-squeeged.
Thanks for the RTV info. It was just a thought. Maybe I'll explore the fuel tank sealant.... Or just put it over the step and takes my chances!