1970 roof vent. How to keep crank in place?

[Thill_1985]

So I've been asking a ton of questions about my airstream. So I have 3 original vents in my trailer. Just one crank doesn't operate. It looks like it's missing some washers around it. I was able to just screw it out completely. And can't figure out how to fix it. I was thinking about drilling a hole in it and putting a pin to keep it in place. What do you guys think? Thanks tyler

[shadrick5]

Originally Posted by Thill_1985

So I've been asking a ton of questions about my airstream. So I have 3 original vents in my trailer. Just one crank doesn't operate. It looks like it's missing some washers around it. I was able to just screw it out completely. And can't figure out how to fix it. I was thinking about drilling a hole in it and putting a pin to keep it in place. What do you guys think? Thanks tyler

I am having the same problem. My vent in the lounge area and used to have the 12v fan has been cobbled by the previous owner. I took it apart and found that the original crank had broken at some point and the solution was to stack wood pieces to allow for the vent to close. That method does not allow for the vent to fully close. I want to restore this vent back to original with the fan and have it open and close as originally designed. I do hope someone will chime in with help for the both of us.

[TG Twinkie]

Looks like there may be a snap ring missing. See the groove just below the threads. I would bet that is what keeps the screw from coming out. It is also what holds the screw so it can act like a jack raising and lowering the vent.
Are these vents the type that lift straight up instead of being hinged on one side? I have them on my '74 Argosy and think they are far superior to the hinged type.

[shadrick5]

Originally Posted by TG Twinkie

Looks like there may be a snap ring missing. See the groove just below the threads. I would bet that is what keeps the screw from coming out. It is also what holds the screw so it can act like a jack raising and lowering the vent.
Are these vents the type that lift straight up instead of being hinged on one side? I have them on my '74 Argosy and think they are far superior to the hinged type.

They are the non hinged type and I agree much better than the hinged type. I took apart one of the others and see the snap ring and upper attachment that you mentioned. My inop one is missing that connection and the screw is broken off about a third of the length of the good one.
Do you know where I may source replacement parts? Thanks for the advice.

[TG Twinkie]

There are a number of RV salvage yards around the country. I doubt you could find new parts. I don't know the brand name. But it would be nice if they were still made. Good luck.
Colaws in Missouri is huge.

[shadrick5]

I figured as much and I have searched a fair amount to no avail. I do appreciate your help at any rate. I will start looking into salvage yards for the parts as I want to maintain this awesome original rainproof vent.