Date:         Sat, 14 May 2011 10:55:37 -0400
Reply-To:     Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Rooftop A/C Experiences
Comments: To: Cunegonde <cunegonde.van.westfalia@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <86761FCE-3D5A-4D5E-A809-291455221C67@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

For AC while driving you really need an engine driven AC. Swampy coolers are
really only useful in very dry environments. When looking for aftermarket AC
ask about capacity. The 12,000 btu units are not quite enough. You really
need 16 to 18,000 btus. Avoid the temptation to try to completely seal or
shut off all outside air. You need fresh air exchange while driving. If
you're traveling with a separate AC and generator for use when camping you
have probably outgrown the Westy.

I have supported an RV AC unit on the roof of an Adventurewagon and
installed enough battery power and inverter to almost get it through a
night. Then you can drive all day or use a generator to charge the
batteries. A lot of weight and money.

Dennis

Dennis


---Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Cunegonde
Sent: Friday, May 13, 2011 3:54 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Rooftop A/C Experiences

I have a small generator, and I also have built an A/C carrier bracket for
the passenger window. This is all fine when parked (and I try not to spend
much time in places where A/C is a daily use item). However, my cooling
(burning?) need is while driving.

I just contacted the Vintage Air people about Vanagon installation. As for
evaporative cooling, any listmembers familiar with swampy.net units, or
recommendation for better?

Cut hole in roof vs. tear apart dash. Hmmm.