Forum Discussion
handye9
May 14, 2013Explorer II
johnm1 wrote:
Hey all,
Has anyone ever added a new roof vent? I don't mean replacing an existing one ... I mean cutting the hole in the roof and putting one in where there wasn't one to begin with. Any tips or thoughts?
Thanks,
I did it on a previous trailer.
I emailed the manufacturer (Starcraft) and told them what I wanted to do. They actually sent me drawings that showed all the roof structures along with AC ducting. They couldn't send wiring diagram, because, wiring inside the ceiling is done while the unit is being built.
With the drawings and a stud finder, I was able to measure and mark the spot for the vent.
To prevent hitting any wiring, I used a spiral zip saw, set to cut slightly less than the depth of ceiling panel. Then finished the cut with a razor knife. Good thing cut was so carefull-- I did find wires, but, they were not cut. There was enough slack in the wires, to just move them out of the way.
I used a long (small diameter) drill bit. Drilled (at the four corners) up through the roof. Then, up on roof, cut (with razor) an "X" between the four drill holes. Fold the rubber roof material out of my way, connect the dots and cut hole from the top. Cut the hole with rounded corners. Fold rubber roof material back into the 14" hole and cut off excess hanging inside.
Install the vent (as directed) with butyl tape and caulking. Inside, install the trim ring. Done
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