vintage vent install

[61Overlander]

My recent shakedown cruise really worked, shook off a hubcap, and blew off my vent cover. My support car following picked up the hubcap and ran over the vent cover. I've decided to replace with one of those fantastic fans I read about on here. I can buy em online for 140 bucks or so, or go to the dealer and pay $225 plus whatever installation they stick me with. My question, on my '61 model Overlander, will I need the modifying collar for the roof curve? I seem to recall an installation done by the fantastic fan people at a rally somewhere and post said the older airstream didn't need the modifications. Also, how difficult is this for someone moderately mechanical. Am I gonna have to swallow my pride and have my know it all neighbor come over and help? Anyone install one of these on a 60-64 airstream? Pics? suggestions? thanks guys Mike

[Pahaska]

The older Airstreams DO need the adapter collar because their roofs are curved. Current models have an almost flat roof and do not need the adapter.

I'm told that Fantastic will provide it free.

[j54mark]

Fantastic Vent makes two different trim pieces for early and late model Airstreams, and, if I recall correctly, in your choice of ivory or white. It may very well be true that the new wide bodies are near enough flat at the center as to obviate the need for curved trim.

Give them a call and they will send you the correct trim for your coach at no charge.

The difficulty will depend largely upon your proximity to a 12v electrical source to run the fan. Usually people tap off a nearby light fixture. Do the 61's run a major wiring run just off the center of the roof line, as do the later models? Whether or no, you will need to be very careful about drilling into electrical wiring. Expect to have a great deal of difficulty removing the old vent. 42 year old sealant can be very tenatious.

I would install with rivets, rather than screws. You can use regular aluminum pop rivets, but use plenty of Vulkem to seal them.

Mark