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Drilling into the camper

Backup camera outside modifications

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#11 cuervo

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Posted 18 April 2018 - 12:59 AM

I hope these help. I downloaded these off the internet. They are of an older FWC model. Good for reference anyway.

Very entertaining if nothing else.


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2017 Swift on a 2017 Tacoma


#12 FoxenTec

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Posted 18 April 2018 - 03:58 AM

We pick up our 2018 Grandby next week. 

 

I had read somewhere that FWC provided multiple owners with some diagrams or specs on their particular model.   Sorry if I sound a bit unhappy but I have received very little help from anyone at FWC regarding any questions I have asked during our 3+ month build.  One question was as simple as what type of connector is on our roof for the pre-wired solar.  I assumed SAE based on others here on the forum.  They couldn't tell me at FWC.   My latest question was about being able to have some way of knowing where I could drill in the rear of the camper for mounting a RotoPax. 

 

Their response was (exact text they wrote)   "I don't know where they (meaning other FWC owners) are getting the info from as our service department doesn't have access to any drawings.  This is because most builds are not standardized and are hand built.  The measurements can be off at any given location".

 

Basically, that is telling me that with our Grandby Shell, we can't help you with any ideas on where to drill into.  I will try a few ideas to figure out where to drill, such as the construction pictures found here on the forum.

 

We are looking forward to picking up our camper next week and hope they are helpful with the install and answering a couple questions.  


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Jon

 

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#13 Crickert

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Posted 22 April 2018 - 04:37 AM

FoxenTec,
When I picked up my new flatbed camper last month at the Woodland Factory the installers were able to give me good idea where things were located. Good as in, pretty spot on but, once you drill/ modify the camper it’s on you. From my observevations while there, I would agree with the statement some things might be different from one camper to the next ”not standardized”.
I’m sure you will be able to find the information your seeking, just have a conversation with the install crew.
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#14 FoxenTec

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Posted 22 April 2018 - 05:46 AM

Thank you Crickert.  I will check with them.  


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Jon

 

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#15 FoxenTec

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Posted 28 April 2018 - 06:30 AM

FoxenTec,
When I picked up my new flatbed camper last month at the Woodland Factory the installers were able to give me good idea where things were located. Good as in, pretty spot on but, once you drill/ modify the camper it’s on you. From my observevations while there, I would agree with the statement some things might be different from one camper to the next ”not standardized”.
I’m sure you will be able to find the information your seeking, just have a conversation with the install crew.

 You were fortunate to have someone helpful at the factory.  Since I received nothing from them to help with questions during the build, I was hoping to get some good info when picking up the unit at the factory.  Unfortunately nothing.

 

When I asked about any helpful tips on drilling into the roof for mounting my solar panels, I was told, "you should buy our solar panels".  Another staff member said, "you will void your warranty, so don't drill into your unit."

 

When I asked about spacing of vertical supports on the frame, I got the canned response, "to many unique campers, we can't help you".

 

Since they make the "Shell" model as a purchasing option, they understand that some buyers like having the ability to setup their camper a bit different then the factory camper and so I am surprised they were not more forthcoming with some positive help.

 

Expected a better experience.


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Jon

 

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#16 Wandering Sagebrush

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Posted 28 April 2018 - 02:55 PM

AM Solar has YouTube videos that show how to mount panels without drilling. I think FWC is now putting a solar connector on both the top and back wall, so if true, it will eliminate the need to drill to fish out the pre wiring to the controller.
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#17 FoxenTec

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Posted 30 April 2018 - 03:56 AM

Yes, that is great that they install (pre-wire) an SAE connector on the roof and at the rear of the camper.  I am concerned about theft of the solar panels on the roof and would like to make them as secure as possible.  We just moved to this area and it seems that tweakers will steal anything not bolted down or secure.  I just want to make it tough for them to be removed.  


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Jon

 

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#18 Wandering Sagebrush

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Posted 30 April 2018 - 05:21 AM

Jon, I believe VHB tape for the feet, covered in Dicor lap sealant would be as good as something screwed into the roof. Either way exposes the panel to mounting foot connection as a vulnerability.
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#19 FoxenTec

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Posted 01 May 2018 - 03:50 AM

Thank you for the tip on the VHB tape!


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Jon

 

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