1957 22' Flying Cloud AC Upgrade Question

[DDickey]

I'm going to add AC to my 1957 22' Flying Cloud and I have two questions:

1. Does the structure need to be beefed up to handle the weight of the unit? If so, what should be done?

2. Any brand/model recommendations?

[Alcoa Roller]

Yes a frame will need to be constructed that sits between the inner and outer skin of trailer. I forget the exact dimensions but roughly 15 x 15. You will also have to allow for condensation draining which is usually accomplished by routing tubing through the walls and down through the belly pan to the ground.An option is to do without the tubing and let the condensate drip on the outside of the trailer to the ground but over time this leaves drip marks on the skin. Depending on how handy you are, this may be a task best left to a reliable rv repair shop, especially for a first time install.

As for brands, I have a Coleman Mach 8 in my 63 Overlander. You can hang meat in there.

[DDickey]

...Lucy's getting the full monty, and I'm trying to make a thorough plan. The interior skins are off, so adding structure won't be a problem. I want to make sure and do it right

[finn21]

Check out the self contained a/c and heat system I put in my 51, it is under one of the bunks. Very quiet, good air circulation and nothing on the roof

[Abstractmom]

Finn21, I'm interested to know what brand you have? I'm working on a '59 TradeWind and I'm considering my options for AC in particular, as I'm in central Texas. Thanks!

[55AS]

Another option to consider is a split system A/C.
They are much quieter than roof units, use less amps and do not stick up on the roof. I mounted mine on the tongue. Installation was a bit more involved of course...

[beatrix1]

I installed a Dometic Penguin II low profile heat pump. Works very nicely. I did not want to use the furnace due to safety concerns. I have no complaints. I ran the drain line from the unit to the upper cabinet over the sink and tapped it into the sink vent/drain line. A little pricey, but well worth it.

[BigButtUgly]

DDickey: Don't you dare think: roof mount. Too expensive. Not efficient. Reduces clearance. Aerodynamics. Who can repair? You may not need 13,000 or 15,000 BTU. You may have a side hatch that a house air unit can roll out. You may have an escape window for a 2nd unit and if you need only one the second is a combat ready spare. 8.000 BTU = 200 bucks. Draw 4.1 amps . EER 11.4 They weigh 57 pounds. Need a repair? Drop first at Sears and use other. Gets too expensive-trash it- buy new. Don't lug around a roof air in winter!!! Who needs the extra weight? I have 2house units. Place in tow vehicle and never affect the trailer weight , balance and tongue weight. I have a double insulated curtain 3 feet in front of fold down twin bed. 8,000 BTUs rarely runs and never past low fan and low cool. Second unit goes in back window and when both run there's about 7 amp draw on my dual fuel electric start generator. I/m good to 130 degrees F.

[55AS]

Originally Posted by BigButtUgly

DDickey: Don't you dare think: roof mount. Too expensive. Not efficient. Reduces clearance. Aerodynamics. Who can repair? You may not need 13,000 or 15,000 BTU. You may have a side hatch that a house air unit can roll out. You may have an escape window for a 2nd unit and if you need only one the second is a combat ready spare. 8.000 BTU = 200 bucks. Draw 4.1 amps . EER 11.4 They weigh 57 pounds. Need a repair? Drop first at Sears and use other. Gets too expensive-trash it- buy new. Don't lug around a roof air in winter!!! Who needs the extra weight? I have 2house units. Place in tow vehicle and never affect the trailer weight , balance and tongue weight. I have a double insulated curtain 3 feet in front of fold down twin bed. 8,000 BTUs rarely runs and never past low fan and low cool. Second unit goes in back window and when both run there's about 7 amp draw on my dual fuel electric start generator. I/m good to 130 degrees F.

I went the window unit route on my Bambi II but taking the unit in and out of the window every time you move gets old after a while.

[BigButtUgly]

DDickey: My 1958 at 2180 pounds has lift kit axle and will go off road anywhere the TV can go It is any and all weather capable. All inside contents can be set up outside under the awning for 3 seasons ( based on anticipated winds and temps. ) $11K invested. 402-296-3796 or C:402-594-5161. You'll need over 200 items. Almost maintenance free and no need to winterize. Larry

[silvia1963]

Alcoa Roller,

We also have a 63 Overlander and are going to install a new AC unit. Did you install the Coleman Mach 8 yourself? If so, how involved was it?/ is there any advice you have from your experience?

Thanks!