2005 Forest River WildCat 29BHBP Engineering drawings of structural locations

[spchallenger340]

(((HELP ))) how can I get a copy of the Engineering drawings for the location of the structural members and locations in the walls and ceiling of my Forest River 2005 WildCat 29BHBP 5th wheel

[bikendan]

Doubt if any exist.

[ependydad]

A 2005 is going to be even harder to come by than new units. And FR doesn’t like to give up the new ones easily.

First things first, you need to contact Wildcat/Forest River and make your case. They may tell you to pound sand, but asking them is the start.

[spchallenger340]

Your right the say they never keep structural drawings for more than 3 yrs. BS

[wbonta123]

To find the structure in the walls. On a cool evening or morning, look at the side of your rig and you should be able to see where the difference in temp or humidty will show lines where your wall structure is.

[joshuajim]

Stud finder, because the fabricators only view the structural drawing as a "suggestion"

[larrytbm]

Most likely you will not be able to obtain drawings and you probably don't need the full info anyway. So as already mentioned, 1) use a stud finder, 2) look for condensation on the exterior on a cool morning, 3) use a bright light to look for staple marks on the interior panels that have been covered with caulk. With the light at a severe angle, I can see caulk residue on the surface of the panels, then locate the small holes from the staples. 4) old school, tap on the walls and listen for sound differences, or just push on the walls to see if the paneling flexes.

Ceiling rafters are very EZ to locate, they will be at every 4 ft joint between ceiling panels and most likely at 16 inches from each joint.

With enough detective work you will locate all the studs/rafters.

[awellis3]

Originally Posted by larrytbm

4) old school, tap on the walls and listen for sound differences, or just push on the walls to see if the paneling flexes.

X2 on this. Tap on outside - push on inside. Also, rule of thumb: Windows, doors, vents, etc. are mounted between studs.