What's the least expensive working AC option for a vintage (65) Tradewind?

[JochenML]

Hi - we are taking our (new to us) Tradewind on a trip in a couple of weeks. Is there a less expensive and workable AC option than getting the Dometic roof unit installed? I have neither the time nor the budget left for that for now. What have other people done??


Thanks so much! J and C

[rideair]

Take a look at this thread, It will show you how I solved the problem many years ago with my 1966 Safari.

https://www.airforums.com/forums/f42...nit-41052.html

Enjoy

[JochenML]

What do people think if using a small standalone AC unit as a short term fix?

[JochenML]

I am thinking of using this unit and having the vent hose blow out one of the roof vents:



https://www.amazon.com/Shinco-SPF2-0...s%2C271&sr=8-5


We're leaving next Wednesday so lengthier installation projects are out of the question. Is there any reason you experienced Airstreamers can think of why this wouldn't work to cool us off at night?


Thanks so much!

[Bill M.]

Go somewhere cool.

[JochenML]

I had never thought of that!

Originally Posted by Bill M.

Go somewhere cool.

[Bubba L]

Originally Posted by JochenML

I had never thought of that!

In all seriousness, about the closest cool camping place for you is Cloudcroft, NM. Probably a good 15 hours from you. As far as a temporary AC system, if you can purchase something for use over a short period of time and be able to use it somewhere else later, go for it. Also having been in construction, we had subs that would rent swamp coolers periodically in the hot season. Good luck

[JochenML]

Ok, so to close this out - I ended up taking out the front electric ceiling fan with the 14" opening and installing a Dometic Penguin II AC with an air distribution box. It seems plenty powerful for our small camper and was pretty easy to install (caveat - the first unit I bought from Camping World was missing a wire harness and was impossible to hardwire, at least for me, so we exchanged it. Second time around was easy!)


Thanks all!

[docflyboy]

Check out TouringDan's window bracket that he uses a small a/c. With your home base in CO, this could be a great solution for you. A $250 window A/C and a weekend project to fab up a bracket that you could use in place of a window screen, and install once you arrive. I live on the wet side of the wet dry line and this wouldn't be my everyday solution.