Installing A/C on my 1960

[Safari Tim]

I'm getting ready to install an Penquin A/C on my Ambassador.

I'm putting it in the center 14x14 existing vent. It looks like the A/C will be centered over one structual rib.

I plan on framing out the opening w/ 2"x4"'s for support.

I don't have the ceiling opened up so no opporunity to frame in extra support besides what can be done through the opening.

So, is this a good plan? Anything I'm not thinking about?

Thanks!

[toastie]

Originally Posted by Safari Tim

I'm getting ready to install an Penquin A/C on my Ambassador.

I'm putting it in the center 14x14 existing vent. It looks like the A/C will be centered over one structual rib.

I plan on framing out the opening w/ 2"x4"'s for support.

I don't have the ceiling opened up so no opporunity to frame in extra support besides what can be done through the opening.

So, is this a good plan? Anything I'm not thinking about?

Thanks!

Make sure that you get a drip pan from Airstream, "only" Airstream makes a drip pan for the Penquin................

[Safari Tim]

Originally Posted by toastie

Make sure that you get a drip pan from Airstream, "only" Airstream makes a drip pan for the Penquin................

Got it!

[flyfshr]

Only thing I'd have done differently would be to add a drip pan. Although not much condensate runs down the side here in sunny AZ when the temps are up. Been really happy with the install.

Brad
FF

[Safari Tim]

Brad, did you re-enforce the roof any?

[rideair]

Tim,

I spoke to someone about this that restores trailers for a living. He told me that he uses a peice of aluminum for the support not a 2x4 and the peice of aluminum is "shaped" to the contor of the roof like the ribs. If you use a 2x4, you could/will create a "flat spot" in the roof when you tighten it down. That is not so much of a problem with the newer trailers(they have flatter roofs). The older ones have more of a rounded roof line.


Good Luck

[rickandsandi]

Greetings Tim-

I would reconsider using wood and go with aluminum for your box frame. This way you will be able to rivit it in place and save on the weight. Also you won't have to worry about rot. The drip pan is a must. Call JC or your local dealer for that. Be sure to contour the upper portion of your new aluminum frame to the roof arch.

[ZoomZoom]

You should create a truss support between the inner and outer skins, this truss should be 1 7/8" thick on the sides and the front & rear ones should be curved on the top and flat on the bottom about 2 1/4 - 2/ 1/2 in the center to 1 7/8 on the ends. This will maintain the exterior curve and give you a flat inside so you ceiling pack looks good, also a necessity when installing a Carrier, lets the air sweep work easier.

ZoomZoom

[flyfshr]

I did re-enforce the roof from rib to rib with 2 x 2's, 2 on each side so they would contour the roof better than a 2 x 4. Used an metal angle bracket at each end to secure to the rib.

Brad
FF