Jim Wilke (152.163.207.177)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, December 24, 2000 - 1:47 pm: | |
Are GM Transits (4519,5301, 5303 etc) unit bodies like the parlor coaches? If so, how is the rear door engineered so as not to weaken the structure? I know there has been a lot of discussion about the problems surrounding weakening the sides of a GM PD coach, but I sure would like to properly engineer and install a motor home style entrance door in my 4104.
Jim-Bob |
Marc Bourget (209.209.66.50)
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Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 27, 2000 - 2:19 am: | |
Dear Jim-Bob
My first attempt to post a reply was lost (actually I probably didn't do it right!)
This project will require building a frame to go inside the skin after you carefully remove and trim the existing stiffeners. The frame will serve to mount the door and replace the strength lost when you cut the skin and structure. For general guidance see Dave Galey's new book on slideouts.
To properly engineer this project you would make things simpler if you draw up the proposed installation and be sure to add cross-sections of the stringers etc. in the affected area. Additional stiffeners may also be required and they should be riveted to both the skin (along with the new frame) and the existing stringers. I don't know if the rivet spacing will have to be decreased (more rivets per inch).
If you provide your e-mail with your reply it would speed things up.
Onward and Upward
Marc Bourget |