j-d wrote:
What's the Make/Model and Engine in this TravelCraft? We had a 1971 Dodge Van, 318 engine. I got some larger exhaust manifolds from another vehicle and what I found was the larger ones got the doghouse hotter. I swapped a 360 into it and same thing. But both of these were "small block" engines. RV's, starting mid-1970's, got the "big block" 440 engine. That big engine, with big manifolds, is going to be right against the inside of the doghouse. It'll help to have the insulation inside the doghouse in good condition, the gasket in good condition, and the doghouse installed straight and tight. It'll still be hot.
We've had two Class C's on Ford and neither was as hot as the Dodge.
Make sure the Radiator is CLEAN inside and out, Fan, Fan Clutch and Thermostat are good, and all the Shrouding is in place. The more heat you can channel out, the less you'll have to deal with. Same for the exhaust. You don't have to replace all these parts. Just check to make sure they're working.
I'll check everything you suggest. I'll double check the year with my parents. I'm thinking it's a Dodge, but that's just a guess until I double check. It is a relatively straightforward operation to take the cover off the doghouse to check the insulation (I'm assuming it's attached right in the inside of the cover?), by "gasket" I'm assuming you're describing a footing that the doghouse cover would go on. Someone mentioned a "dynamat" and after looking that up I saw people talking about a dynamat alternative at the home improvement store...but I don't know if "soundproofing" also covers "heat proofing."
Unfortunately I'm 3 hours away from the RV until Thursday, so I can't just run out and look. But I can call my dad to see if he's feeling up to checking some things out before I come. Unfortunately he can't do a lot due to a heart condition...which is why I'm trying to help out as much as I can. But I'm less than a novice .
I truly can't believe how HOT it is. I'm not a wimp by any means. Think I could easily fry an egg on my foot. lol.
