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Old 12-27-2014, 06:00 AM   #1
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Change a metal roof vent by a transparent roof vent ?

Good morning everyone,

On a 60' Airstream, is it possible to change metal roof vent by transparent roof vent ?

In order to have more light in the trailer...

I haven't found replace parts in web shop.

What do you think about it ?

Thank you per advance for your experience, your advices and your answers !
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Old 12-27-2014, 07:09 AM   #2
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You can, but it will probably involve removing the complete vent assembly and replacing it with a model that will accept a more see-through cover. A Fantastic Vent, for example, would have a see-through smoke-tinted lid. They do (or did, I haven't checked lately) make a vent without a fan, it simply opens and closes manually.
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Old 12-27-2014, 07:33 AM   #3
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I have solid metal vent covers on my 1975. Someone in the past cut a large square hole in the metal vent cover and riveted a piece of plexiglass in to provide additional light. It was well sealed and has lasted for quite a few years. The good thing about this method is that it is fairly easy to do and doesn't involve having to replace vents. You also keep the look of the original vent.

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Old 12-27-2014, 07:38 AM   #4
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Consider the Plexi idea. The plastic used in the roof vents will Age quickly resulting in cracks and or breakage from hale.
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Old 12-27-2014, 07:41 AM   #5
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If you do put plastic on the existing cover, use UV resistant Lexan. It will last a lot longer.
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Old 12-27-2014, 08:47 AM   #6
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Is this what you are looking for?
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Old 12-27-2014, 08:57 AM   #7
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I'm embarrased to cut the roof in order to change the complete system... I'm afraid to modify the body and have a leak if I don't fix correctly the new system...

But good idea to cut in the actual vent and place a plexi piece... I keep in my mind this idea.
And of course, UV resistant Lexan, the same than persons use for the windows.

I have an other question about the Lexan, I've heard than it cans moved if the temperature is cold or hot, it's right or wrong ?
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Old 12-27-2014, 09:00 AM   #8
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It does expand and contract at a different rate than glass or metal, however due to the small sizes of the pieces I don't think it should be an issue. Mine have been in for over 20 years and are still leak free. I also suspect mine may not be UV resistant, because they are starting to show their age with some minor cracking.

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Old 12-27-2014, 09:00 AM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by HiHoAgRV View Post
Is this what you are looking for?
Airstream Astradome
Actually, I have this system but the light can't enter in the Airstream when it's closed.

If I can change only the dome, it's perfect but I think it's impossible to find the same size than the original in transparent...
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Old 12-27-2014, 09:04 AM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by wahoonc View Post
however due to the small sizes of the pieces I don't think it should be an issue.
You're probably right, if my memory is relatively good, the extension is around 1%
So in piece of 30cm, it cans move between 28,5 an 31,5mm no more...

I'm afraid by a leak if I change the complete system
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Old 12-27-2014, 11:04 AM   #11
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I did the reverse on mine. The transparent plastic was done for and I used 18ga aluminum and riveted it in place. It worked out great. You could do the same thing with a UV rated lexan. Trace the part out and any glass shop should be able to cut it to size.
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Old 12-27-2014, 05:55 PM   #12
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My 86 Airstream came with Lexan translucent vent pieces in the aluminum vent lid. Over the years they turned brittle and broke. I elected to replace them with aluminum sheeting like NavyCorpsman did. They did not add a lot of light as the vents are mounted over the ceiling light fixtures.

Many folks change out their old vents and fan motors for the more modern and effective Fantastic Fan or MaxxFan. You get a plastic cover and a much better ventilating fan.

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