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Topic: 2003 Escape Hatch cover - wrong size? (Read 12 times) previous topic - next topic
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2003 Escape Hatch cover - wrong size?
Yahoo Message Number: 125958
I'm trying to replace the 17x24" Elixir vent cover on the front exit hatch of our 2003 MB.
 The original hatch opening is 17x24 and the cover is around 18"x25.5" on the outside.

I ordered this from vent #31-8429 from PPL http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/rv-vents/exit-vent.htm

The vent PPL sent me is ~1" wider and longer than the original.  It's 19.5"x26.25" on the outside, and around 18"x25" inside.
 PPL say I have the right part, but I can't see how.  Has anyone else run into this problem?

Rich '03MB in NC.
2003 MB
Re: 2003 Escape Hatch cover - wrong size?
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 125960
Quote
I'm trying to replace the 17x24" Elixir vent cover on the front exit hatch of our 2003 MB.
 The original hatch opening is 17x24 and the cover is around 18"x25.5" on the outside.

I ordered this from vent #31-8429 from PPL http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/rv-vents/exit-vent.htm

The vent PPL sent me is ~1" wider and longer than the original.  It's 19.5"x26.25" on the outside, and around 18"x25" inside.
 PPL say I have the right part, but I can't see how.  Has anyone else run into this problem?

Rich '03MB in NC.
Rich, 2003 was Jensen #J294X18 hatch.  I would order it from LD if it is not too late or maybe PPL can cross reference it.
Joe Hamm-2003 MB
Re: 2003 Escape Hatch cover - wrong size?
Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 125961
"Has anyone else run into this problem?"

Rich
 I have found it best to either take the old hatch to a local RV supply store and match it or  to take Joe's advice and order one from the Mothership When matching, make sure the hinge is the same shape or it will not fit without removing the hinges and riveting the old hinge onto the new hatch..
Check the condition of the hatch lift. The teeth on the gear do wear out and this a good time to replace it, if necessary.
 Painting the exterior of the new hatch will help protect it from the sun,  helping to keep the plastic flexible longer. White, plastic paint is widely available in rattle cans.
 Consider insulating the insides of the new hatch with a closed-cell foam to block heat and cold.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lwade/sets/72157602104741565/ It makes a big difference, especially when using the overhead bunk.
Backpacking sleeping pads, such as Ensolite,  are one source of closed-cell foam.
http://www.rei.com/product/374059/standard-blue-foam-pad-long

Larry
2001 MB
* Not to be confused with Larry W (3000 of my posts are actually from expert Larry W due to Yahoo transition mis-step)
Re: 2003 Escape Hatch cover - wrong size?
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 125962
Thanks everyone.
 I called the factory and they knew exactly what the problem was.  The original manufacturer was bought out and the new manufacturer has changed the part slightly.  The hinge doesn't match up quite right, and the new part is a slightly different size.  Lazy Daze has a solution, which you can order direct from the mothership.
 DON'T order a 17x24 Elixir vent cover from a RV parts vendor with recent stock.  It won't fit.
 The LD Companion should probably be updated, as ordering the part specified there will result in problems.

Anyone need a new freshly painted white Elixir #99008-1?  Cheap.

Live and learn....

Rich
2003 MB
 
Re: 2003 Escape Hatch cover - wrong size?
Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 125963
Quote
PPL say I have the right part, but I can't see how.  Has anyone else run into this problem?

Rich '03MB in NC.
I had the same problem when I replaced the hatch cover on my '04. Finally ended up taking the rig to the factory. My understanding is the covers are now manufactured "off shore - way off shore" where apparently they use a different system of measurement. In any event Vince fitted a new cover but the sealing lip required more than 1/2" thickness of weatherstrip tape to make the hatch waterproof. You might take this in consideration when you undertake this project.

John '04 23.5FL