and of course it just came loose again. So it is gonna go. I couldn't lever my ancient body out of it anyway. I want to fabricate a cover that will go OVER the risen edges that are there and let me caulk it to the roof, secure it from the inside. and then cut out a standard size hole in the new lid and inset a powered fan. Any thoughts?
Fri, 02/10/2017 - 16:53
#1
I hate the "escape hatch"
This is hardly experienced advice, but have you thought of contacting a fiberglass shop? They might be able to create a mold and make you something suitable. Just brainstorming here.
" I couldn't lever my ancient body out of it anyway."
Just wanted to point out, one reason the escape hatch is on the roof is in case the trailer rolls over onto the curb side. The door would then be unusable to escape from the trailer and the roof hatch will be close to ground level. If you have the sliding rear window, I suppose that would be almost as good, but if you have another style, or non-opening rear window, you could get trapped, or at least delayed in getting out while you break through a too small window frame.
Just wanted to point that out..
I'm not sure why you are having problems with the escape hatch. We have around 15,000 miles on our 2015 with no hatch problems. We have seen RVs driving with the hatches open which is a big no no. They don't last long that way. The hatch should be closed tightly while traveling.
Philip - I have been toying with a similar idea. I want to install an exhaust fan like a Fantastic, but really do not want to create another hole in my Scamp 13. My concept idea basically revolves around removing all the existing escape hatch hardware so only the fiberglass shell remains with a hole. Then from the exterior installing a piece of 1/4" to 1/2" plywood coated in Epoxy Resin over the hole and fiberglass it in with resin and cloth strip around the perimeter. Then you can simply paint it white and cut any size hole needed in the newly installed plywood for your new fan. The added plywood and fiberglass will add a ton of strength to reinforce any hole and create a good surface to screw into to secure the new fan.
I hope to make this modification myself this fall or next spring.
FWIW - I'm not a large fella so I can escape from any of the three rear windows if needed. Only do this modification at your own discretion!!
Check out the thread in the Modifications TOC on installing Fantastic Fan. Building a plug is the way I would go in dealing with the escape hatch.
Our Trailers:
2015 19 Escape
Buying or Selling Molded FG Trailers:
Fiberglass-RV-4Sale
I didn't think you were allowed to have people in the trailer while on the road.
It depends on the state, the hitch type, age of the rider, and having contact with the driver. But remember rollovers can happen while camped also (wind).
That huge Good Neighbor Sam directory has one page and it includes the exact information you are seeking state by state. Bottom line, I've had all kinds of things move around unless secured. Would you really want to be on the receiving end of all those bumps. B
If you can ride in the back I assume you would be required to have seat belts for adults and child restraints for children.
KVJ
Ok
so I installed a roof ac on a 96 that was not prepped for ac
i did add fiberglass to the inside, but what really made the difference is I added two small sheets (3x48 inchs) of stainless steel inside and one (36x36)to the outer shell
used high temp silicone
Im 175 and can stand on roof with vert little flex :)
no one can see it, unless the camper is on its side, which at that point I have bigger issues
<p>Robert</p>