coleman vs Dometic AC on 1973 AS

[wolf38]

i would like to replace the existing AC on my 31 FT 1973 Sovereign . looking for advice on Colemen vs Domestic? ease of install, etc? thanks in advance.

[dbj216]

Missoula. I like Missoula. We stayed there almost a week some years ago and I thought of it as a nice small city.

My friend has a 76 Sovereign 31' and is replacing the air conditioner. He is quite a shopper and finally ordered a Dometic Phase II 15k btu unit. It is not here yet and we will install it together. I did install a Coleman on my wife's Airstream some years ago. The units are heavy for one person. I rigged a roof platform and was lucky to get it up there and over the hole. I got the job done and the unit works fine and just a noisy as most other unit are.

David

[SeeMore]

The process is the same for either manufacturer and the opening size is identical. The difference between the units will be the control units and thermostat, and whether you are installing a heat pump versus a purely an AC unit.

As mentioned above, getting the old unit off and the new unit up onto the roof is the most arduous part. The exterior roof units are roughly 100-110 pounds. You can rent a lift from a local tool rental company. I recommend asking for a "duct lift" with a 10 foot lift capability. These lifts can be transported in your pickup and be used/maneuvered by a single person. Around here, they rent for <$100 day and a half day is an option for around $50.

http://agscsales.com/wp-content/uplo.../Duct-lift.jpg

[wolf38]

any issues with the curvature on the roof, for purposes of getting a good seal?

[wolf38]

any issues with the curvature of the roof, and getting a good seal?

[rowiebowie]

Make sure you also get the control panel (the module that links the ac to power and thermostat) and inside grill that goes with whatever brand you buy. Maybe a new thermostat, but that may not be necessary unless you're adding a heat option. Also, do you need a model with a condensation pump?

Be prepared for a frustrating delay as many models are out of stock due to high demand.

Good luck.