install AC. instead of cutting, filling space on the interior paneling.

[davek]

I'm thinking about putting a penguin II on the roof of a 1965 20' globetrotter. There is an existing roof panel that is 14' x 30' cutout No fan or anything, just some tabs where you can raise that 14x30 section to allow air in.

From what I can tell, you can get the penguin assembly 14x14 gasket kit -- so similar to the fantastic fan I just installed in the existing 14x14 slot (I didn't have to cut anything b/c the existing fan was the perfect size).

So I think if I do this, instead of cutting aluminum on the outside and the paneling on the inside, I'd need to fill the space to get back to a 14x14 square.
a) does this sound right?
b) if I need to add aluminum and inside paneling, do you have suggestions?

I assume I can cover the roof with aluminum sheets and some rivets.
The inside is the basic white paneling, and I'm curious to see what recommendations people have to fill in the gaps that will exist?

I hope this makese sense thanks in advance!
Dave

[57Vintage]

The main thing I'd be concerned with is support for the AC. Is there a complete rib at either end you can attach to? I assume you may find a rib was cut for that opening.

I would also suggest building a square support to go around the AC opening to help spread the load. (disregard the rectangles, they're about a different topic)



This would also be a good time to think about how to drain the condensate from the AC unit. Most prefer to do this with a drain hose inside the wall so it doesn't drip down the side of the trailer. If you don't have the interior walls loose/off this may be the most time consuming part of the installation. I believe the stock location to have the end of the tube is inside the wheel well. I chose to end mine above the channel with a 90 to go out the wall and capped it with a threaded end plug (with 1/8" holes drilled to keep the wasps out) so I had a way to clean out the tube if needed.

Patching the roof and interior panel should be easily done. Just be sure all the joints on the outer panel are well sealed.