Exterior modification for Class A

Thanks! Glad to know I am not the only one that has thought about this. Too bad someone hasn't invented a bolt on kit that would taper down to the front and rear caps with awnings.

Yes they look cool but there are a few down sides to having the top treatment all around. No ladder for starters. Also because the coach is now taller (mine is 13') It is a bit scary trying to get on the roof.
I had to get on my roof at a rest stop just a couple weeks ago and it was very difficult. There is also not a great place to rest a extension ladder. Anyway the crown trim is standard on the Dutch Star and I wouldn't call that high end. I doubt doing it to an existing coach would be feasible.

They are starting to put integrated awnings (or at least the ones without lower rails) on even entry level coaches. I saw a set on a Hurricane of all things. here's a set on a Miramar.

Granted these aren't integrated into the roof rails, but same principal. As all things things, high end bits trickle down pretty fast in the rv industry.

Example

Also, if you remove your standard awning, you will have to fill and paint the holes where it was removed.

AikenRacer,

I've had the same thoughts about doing that to my Revolution. I looked into buying a used Girard awning but they are still $2500 or more. If you found a coach in a wrecking yard you could also buy the filler panels on the sides and modify them to fit the length of your coach. As for the end caps, you wouldn't have to replace the entire cap, just model up a nice looking transition from the awning to the existing roof cap. I wasn't concerned about the modeling as I have done a couple of complete custom cars and lots of fiberglass work too. The inside of the coach is finally done. Maybe I should put this project back on the list!

The high end coaches to which you refer incorporate those side rails into the front and rear caps. Trying to simply add the side rails would give the front and rear of the coach a strange appearance and would not allow the side rails to have sufficient support front and rear to support the added weight and stress placed on it from the awning(s). Then again, you could replace both the front and rear caps while adding the rails but the expense may be cost prohibitive. I do like the way the coaches look as the A/C units and upper exterior vents are hidden giving the coach a smoother look.....Dennis