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kmb1966's avatar
kmb1966
Explorer
Aug 20, 2015

Changing the vent lid - best way to access it

My vent lid was cracked during a hailstorm on my Roadtrek. Anyone have any inventive ideas on how get up there to reach the lid to change it? I don't know if you can stand on the fiberglass top. Too far to reach with the ladder on the side of the van. How do you get to it to remove it??
  • I do need to get to the top of our "B" from time to time. I usually use a Werner "Podium" ladder so I can lean against it rather than leaning against the roof. It's worked for me so far.

    Cheers.
  • In the past, when I had this issue, you started on the inside of the vent assembly to remove some screws before you went topside.
  • update: We have a 2002 Dodge Roadtrek 190. I think I might be able to access the screws to remove the lid by using a ladder next to the van and leaning over, but it is going to be a close one. I weigh about 180 lbs. I am going to try to do it without putting my weight on the top. If I were a little bit taller, it would be no problem at all.
  • I don't know what model RT you have, but many class B/C's have a roof A/C. I have been on the roof of our ERA, and also put a roof A/C on our old 1999 American Cruiser which took two of us and the weight of the A/C. I am certain unless you are very large, getting on the roof should be no problem. Access to the roof for routine maintenance has to be possible. Using the extension ladder with foam or cloth protectors is a very good idea as mentioned.
  • I just resealed the vent on my pleasure way lexor ( not a wide body)- I was easily able to reach the vent from a ladder.
    I could probably spread my weight out on the roof, but I don;t want to chance it.

    a step ladder is a little wacky, trying to lean across makes it unstable and dangerous

    an extension ladder with foam lining the rails ( cut up a pool-noodle or get pipe insulation at home depot) against the side of the van is pretty stable...one each side will speed your work.

    for my vent the lid is attached with a hinge and 4 phillips head screws accessed from the exterior- you may have silicone or other sealant gooped over the screws-
    almost all the fasteners on my van are robertson head R2 and R1 size.

    for my job, the entire vent was removed, and I looked at my lid, lubed the mechanisms - all well so I just resealed and put it back on

    mike