ruderunner
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Post by ruderunner on Oct 8, 2017 5:09:32 GMT -8
Most threads about roof top here shoot the idea down for weight reasons which makes sense considering the relatively flimsy walls and roof of vintage units. As a scratch build though the extra weight can be accounted for and design in.
So I'm not asking about would it work.
No I'm more concerned with the ugly. We all know that typical roof top units are uhh less than stylish. Has anyone done or seen a home made shroud? Just throwing out an idea but figuring I will have extra metal left from window cutouts from the skins, it may not be a waste to try to make something neat looking.
Like a 1/4 scale model of the camper on the roof? A Barbie sized teardrop? Sure it's a little glampy but it can be a cool way to hide the ugly.
Maybe this should go in the exterior section?
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shastatom
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I can chase women or fix campers, I choose to fix what I understand........... campers.
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Post by shastatom on Oct 8, 2017 6:06:20 GMT -8
Since I did a frame off I thought a lot about this as well. In my head I figured out a design to deal with the weight using tube steel and then also having that in the walls but I just couldn't get past the big inside controls and my ceiling was only .75 inches thick. I would like to see someone do one with a neat inside and outside shroud. I just don't have that type of skill set. Good luck and remember, nothing ventured nothing gained. Also it is your rebuild so do what you want and make it usable and safe.
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ruderunner
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Post by ruderunner on Oct 8, 2017 7:58:52 GMT -8
Well not exactly a rebuild, My plan is to start with a newer larger camper and cut away whats not an oversized ham. That said the frame, title and whatever useable appliances wil likely be all that's left of whatever camper I start with, basically an all new build.
For example, Your roof is only 3/4", I'm planning on 2x4 rafters, tapered a bit toward the ends. Locating near or above say the fridge cabinet means only about a 6 foot span which should be plenty to support the weight.
As for controls, it would be nice if whatever donor I get has a wall mounted thermostat versus controls on the underside of the unit. This might be something that can be rewired for relocation though.
Regarding the outside shroud, I figure if one can do a full size ham, a little one should be cake (no framing to speak of) Or even it should be practice for the full size? Hmmm...
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shastatom
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I can chase women or fix campers, I choose to fix what I understand........... campers.
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Post by shastatom on Oct 8, 2017 16:41:10 GMT -8
Remember a 5000 btu air conditioner will and can cool a large area. If you get one to big it will not run or cool as well as you would like.
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nccamper
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Post by nccamper on Oct 8, 2017 17:53:07 GMT -8
Just from an esthetic standpoint I think AC on a vintage camper roof is ugly. Like a wart on the end of your nose...it can be small but it's the only thing people see.
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Post by vikx on Oct 8, 2017 21:00:18 GMT -8
The only way for a roof top A/C to look OK on a camper is to disguise it. You could design the roof with an upward swoop. Take a look at a Pleasure Way or other van type campers.
Personally, I think they are butt ugly and not appropriate on a vintage camper. There are other options. You might look into a cooling unit that is exterior to the trailer or a pet based unit.
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Post by bigbill on Oct 9, 2017 8:06:42 GMT -8
As you think about building a cover for a roof unit keep in mind the air flow. Don't build a wall that will increase drag and add more load/stress to roof.
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Post by vikx on Oct 9, 2017 21:51:10 GMT -8
Ruderunner, having read all of your posts, I think your build will be heavier than most. You will have many challenges which are not related to vintage trailers at all. The shape will be vintage, but not the rest of the camper.
Study new builds, A/C installs and even the tear drop sites. Many of your questions are easily answered on modern sites. Most vintage trailers don't have the systems (or room) to include these type of upgrades. People have done great things with a simple cargo trailer, ideas there as well.
Let us know what you discover.
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Post by danrhodes on Oct 10, 2017 5:45:28 GMT -8
I love all the creative ways people hide units in cabinets. I think anything on the roof is really going to look out of place, even if you slap some wings on it.
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Post by bigbill on Oct 10, 2017 9:11:55 GMT -8
On a canned ham they are out of place, but on a second generation they look ok. I put mine inside for two reasons, 1: cheaper 2: keep load off roof. My opinion.
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ruderunner
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Post by ruderunner on Oct 14, 2017 4:08:50 GMT -8
Ruderunner, having read all of your posts, I think your build will be heavier than most. You will have many challenges which are not related to vintage trailers at all. The shape will be vintage, but not the rest of the camper. Study new builds, A/C installs and even the tear drop sites. Many of your questions are easily answered on modern sites. Most vintage trailers don't have the systems (or room) to include these type of upgrades. People have done great things with a simple cargo trailer, ideas there as well. Let us know what you discover. Yes I am planning a retro mod camper and yes bigger and heavier than most of yours. I've checked the teardrop sites but most of what I've seen there is incompatible with what I'd like to end up with. Sites about modern campers don't get nearly as in depth about construction, mostly repairs and maintenance. Don't sell yourself short, the depth of knowledge here is incredible. You guys do basically construct from scratch quite often. Many build threads show how all you really reuse from the original camper is the frame and title. And just as often you're adding features that were unheard of when these hams were new, granted maybe just one or two things vs my desire for most creature comforts. I have two threads about ac options as I'm trying to decide which one is better for my situation. Roof top would be an easy solution but undesirable looking, hence this thread about ways to make it look better. The other thread was more about getting the cool air where it's desired using a more hidden unit. Bill had a great idea for mini fans to circulate the air. I'm liking that idea and now am back to researching the how's and where's of placing a typical window unit other than in a window.
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Post by vikx on Oct 14, 2017 21:12:26 GMT -8
Thanks for the kudos, Ruderunner. We are here to help everyone.
"Many build threads show how all you really reuse from the original camper is the frame and title."
I disagree. VINTAGE is what this forum is all about. Original parts and pieces are so very important in keeping the look and feel of a vintage camper. To some of us, a trailer is no longer vintage with too many modern upgrades, especially those that are visible.
To prevent confusion to our members, it is best to go with tried and true construction and materials similar to those used back in the day. 60 years is a good record for holding together. Trailers are not houses and do not need/use products that are not meant to seal a camp trailer.
Let's keep our discussions aimed at vintage trailers.
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