Roof top ac, a different question...

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.