Date:         Tue, 13 Jun 2006 11:21:21 -0400
Reply-To:     Jonathan Poole <jfpoolio@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jonathan Poole <jfpoolio@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Roof Top Air Conditioning
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Howdy List,

After a few years of full-timing I have been making to take the comfort of
my westy to the next level.  The westy is an '82 air cooled and will
probably continue to be an air cooled 2.0 for quite some time.  What I am
trying to figure out is the best way to add air conditioning to my van.
This will be used mostly while camping/stationary but also while driving if
possible.  I have seen some discussions on this topic on the list, and have
seen evaporative conditioners, kooleraire units, fans, mounted window units,
etc.  but have noticed little discussion of roof top units (I hope this is
not like starting another tire thread).  Does anyone have any experience
with mounting one of these (or similar) up top?

http://www.ducktec.com/itm00186.htm

It weighs just under 100 lbs would require a 14x14" hole etc.  My thoughts
are that this unit coupled with a honda generator/shore power could work.  I
would prefer something smaller and lighter but apart from dismantling and
reconfiguring one of the tiny $100 units from wal-mart I have not been able
to find anything smaller.

My goal is to find something that is permanent, low maintenance and
effective.  I would prefer to always have ac available and to avoid any
additional setup before use.  Stealth camping is a big part of my
routine and my top stays down most of the time.  For the last few years I
have used a fan and have tried to park wisely (in the shade and in the
mountains come august) but would like the ability to go to the hot places
comfortably.

Also somewhat related, do any of you have a prefered full-time mounting
position for a small honda type generator that would enable it's use while
driving and minimize setup etc. when at a stationary location?  I have some
ideas, but would like to consider all options.

Thanks a bunch.

Jonathan Poole
'82 AC Westy