| Author |
Message |
John Elnitski
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 8:36 am: | |
I am about to install a third AC unit I need to cut what I call the main spar, which is the steel square channel running from front to back down the center of the bus. I know I need to put a box in where I cut out. is it ok to weld the box between where I cut the main spar or locate the hole near one of the ribs that run side to side and weld at least one end to the rib |
Jim Stewart (H3jim)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 10:54 am: | |
I mounted my air just to the side of the spar so I wouldn't have to cut it. 14" hole, moved over halfway, thats only a 7" offset. I offset to the drivers side since trees and curved bridges are likely to be lower on the passenger side. The curve of the roof is not enought to affect operation and while you can notice it, the offset does not really jump out at you. Its more noticable on the inside, although two of my three units, the offset helps inside. (the bedroom does stand out). |
Bob Vandawalker (Rav221)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 11:10 am: | |
We did the same, just off to the side of the center channel. These roof units are made to accept a certain degree of slope. We did as Jim and offset to the drivers side, not only for clearance, but also condensation runs away from the door side.
You really don't notice the offset from the outside, but really who cares anyways..
These roof structure were engineered with that center channel beam for a reason, to start cutting it away might not advisable unless it's replaced with something equal or stronger. |
John Elnitski
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 11:31 am: | |
Bob and Jim
how did you frame in the 14 inch space when you did it to the side. |
Bob Vandawalker (Rav221)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 11:47 am: | |
We just made a simple square frame using treated lumber, from bus roof to ceiling. We started designing a square steel channel frame. There were two considerations, one was metal reaction between the steel and aluminum roof and second was adjusting the metal for the roof slope. Was just easier to use the treated lumber. |
marc schlabach
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 6:07 pm: | |
I put mine in the middle. I have 3 units. The front and rear ,I used the escape hatches, but the middle one I cut out the beam and welded steel tubing in to make sure it remained structually strong. After 3 years there seems to be no problems. I used a professional fabricater.Works for me. Marc |
Jim Stewart (H3jim)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 - 9:59 pm: | |
wood frame, just as Bob did. The roof had a little curve, so I cut the pieces on a band saw. Pretty easy. My rear access hatch will still be an access hatch, and will have a fan mounted in it. The front one will be access to a roof deck. At 23 inches square, they were too big for the airs and would have required some mods anyway. |