Adding a second exit door

[jwedell]

This may sound stupid but we're serious. Our trailer has the door towards the back of the trailer and the bedroom is in the front. The electrical panel, refrigerator and water heater are all by it. If a fire should break out there we're in serious trouble because there is no way we're getting out the emergency window. I would like to cut a hole on the street side emergency window in the bedroom and install a door. Does any one know if this is even possible. When the laughter stops any comments would be appreciated.

[OldCoot]

Originally Posted by jwedell

This may sound stupid but we're serious. Our trailer has the door towards the back of the trailer and the bedroom is in the front. The electrical panel, refrigerator and water heater are all by it. If a fire should break out there we're in serious trouble because there is no way we're getting out the emergency window. I would like to cut a hole on the street side emergency window in the bedroom and install a door. Does any one know if this is even possible. When the laughter stops any comments would be appreciated.

As long as it doesn't compromise the structural integrity of the frame, I think you could do it. Would require a special door. Why not just a larger window?

I'm thinking of making a alum tube/rope ladder that hooks to the window frame for our 5er.

[jwedell]

[QUOTE=OldCoot;566193]As long as it doesn't compromise the structural integrity of the frame, I think you could do it. Would require a special door. Why not just a larger window?



I'm thinking of making a alum tube/rope ladder that hooks to the window frame for our 5er.[/QUOTE



Wife is handicapped.

[youroo]

Originally Posted by jwedell

This may sound stupid but we're serious. Our trailer has the door towards the back of the trailer and the bedroom is in the front. The electrical panel, refrigerator and water heater are all by it. If a fire should break out there we're in serious trouble because there is no way we're getting out the emergency window. I would like to cut a hole on the street side emergency window in the bedroom and install a door. Does any one know if this is even possible. When the laughter stops any comments would be appreciated.

No info on unit supplied? If it is Wood & Tin easier than Pressed siding over Alum tube to Modify. Youroo!!

[jwedell]

It's aluminum frame with fiberglass siding. It's a surveyor SC 226 RBDS

[SKnight]

Why laugh?

Since campers are more house/building type construction, I'd ask a contractor maybe? They'll know more about the feasibility of cutting a hole in a wall and the structural compromise it would cause. Honestly, I can't see where it would be an issue if properly finished off with a cross brace above the door.

Be sure to look at the entire project, such as adding steps under the door, etc.

[jwedell]

Good point with the steps SKnight

[h20ski]

IMHO before I would cut another door, I would consider,

1. Heavy duty breakout axe in bedroom.(Go thru wall if you cannot escape w/#3.)
2. Good smoke alarms.
3. A larger, maybe a 10 or 20 lb ABCD fire extinguisher in bedroom.

Good luck.

[AquaMan]

On a cool dewey morning, take a look at the side of you camper. The aluminum frame structure will show up as "dry" and you will see what kind of framing exists in the spot you plan to put a door. If there is space to put a door without cutting into the frame structure, I would think you would be ok.

[Kaadk]

Why not call FR and see if can be done at the factory? They'd have the doors, trim, etc on hand to match and they might even appreciate the design recommendation.

No idea what they'd charge you for it though....

[jwedell]

Great idea Kaadk, i'll call them tomorrow.

[kerrlakelover]

I know we RVers like to be creative and figure out our mods ourself. But on this one, you are talking about taking a serious junk out of the side of the RV. Why not just call Forest River and get some info and/or help from them as far as what you should or shouldn't do?

[kerrlakelover]

Ha...I started typing my post and DW called me to dinner. I hit send when I finished eating and Kaadk had posted the same idea.

[jwedell]

And both are excellent ideas.