Hi All -
How important is having 2 open-able windows facing each-other for draft/cooling purposes inside van?
Do you think having 1 window that opens + ceiling vent fans will be enough for ventilation?
Any suggestions where to buy affordable aftermarket windows for 2006 dodge 140"?
Thanks in advance!
What climates are you expecting to be in?
Our 170” has two Maxair roof vents and three CRL tilt out windows. We’re still early in ownership, on our fourth trip or so, but in San Felipe (Baja Mexico), with some pretty hot sun. A few things to consider:
- Depending where you are staying, you may not have much choice on whether you park your van relative to the direction of the wind. Don’t count on the wind always hitting your van sides. If you plan on being in hot climates I’d consider the Motion rear door sliders.
- Nothing will come remotely close to having the rear or slider door(s) open. You can get mosquito netting for either, though it won’t offer any security from large, dishonest or potentially violent mammals.
- The fans, at least our Maxairs, are somewhat loud, especially past the low setting. Turning them up is very much diminishing returns, the airflow doesn’t increase as much as the noise and amp draw.
- Speaking of amp draw, they are 3-ish amps on high, each. Factor that into your battery bank sizing.
- If your sitting in the sun, strongly consider UV reflecting window tint and/or window insulators. And if you’re going to use window insulators, you can’t see through them, and they won’t work as well as your main wall insulation. Windows are a double edged sword, they add venting, but also reduce insulation and increase thermal transfer (not to mention, decrease security). The half slider motion windows seem practical for those reasons.
- For a few hours a day, I’m envious of the couple next to us in their air conditioned trailer. But then again, they sit in their air conditioned trailer all day long, seems like they could have just stayed home.
Two 14” roof fans side by side would probably move a lot more air, much quieter and using less power than one on high. Not sure if anyone makes vents larger than standard 14”, but that would be worth considering.
Rob