14' Series Replace air-conditioning with skylight/vent

[Jolly]

We have a 14.4 poptop with a roof mounted Dometic reverse cycle. We've never used it as it needs the gas recharged and we have a diesel heater for warmth - and besides, we need to be either plugged into power or invest in an invertor

We are wanting to freshen up the interior and make it brighter so thinking of removing it and replacing it with a skylight/hatch. Has anyone done this or have tips if it's a DIY or should I have it done professionally?

 

[Drover]

If you can remove the internal fascia of the AC and measure the cut out in the roof you could then look for a roof hatch of similar size, from memory they run in the 350 -400mm sizing so a roof vent should be easily found that will fit, have a look at caravansplus.com.au as they have a site thats easy to follow and well laid out with usually a wide range at damn good prices I have found, ideally one that is the same size, a bit smaller would mean a lot of stuffing around to get a good fit and seal.... you don;t want to do any cutting of the roof or you will open up a hornets nest of trouble.
Removing your old unit though will require at least 2 people and some care, using staging boards across the roof to take your weight or staging along the side of the van to carry the boards is better, the AC can be near 50 kgs so good load bearing is a must and you will have to disconnect and make safe the wiring ends properly so they don't arc up at a later date ...

If your lucky caravansplus may have fitting info for your model AC which if you reverse will give you a good idea of whats what about removing it.