Air conditioning's a requirement for my Scamp remodel. The conventional RV solution is a rooftop unit. My roof isn't nearly strong enough for that much weight. It could be strengthened but I prefer a clean roofline. They're kinda spendy too. And overkill capacity for such a small space. No thanks.
In upscale motorhomes, residential heat pumps are more popular. While appropriate for that application it's not for my project. But a residential window AC unit is perfect. They're a stock appliance in stores all over the country. Much easier on the wallet. 5,000 btus is plenty of capacity. Most brands use similar dimensions. Not standardized for interchangeability but close enough should the need arise some day.
Location wise I considered many options. Eventually deciding to maximize interior space by having the bulk of it cantilever outside like bedroom air conditioners on homes. Except instead of window mounted, wall mounted, like some apartments. No way it's sticking out either side! I prefer the weight in front not rear. It just needed a sturdy frame.
Before hacking the case I opened it up to make sure where to drill holes that wouldn't pierce the capacitor or do any other damage to its vitals.
Once satisfied with that detail, aluminum angle was attached to make a flange for the top and sides. The bottom has feet which rest on a ledge in the wood frame.
The frame was rabbited to half thickness. The inside being thinner than the outside. A rectangular hole was cut in the shell for the inner part to slide into.
Once leveled and squared the frame was fitted to shell curvature by freehand routing the rabbits. Then the wood frame was epoxied to the fiberglass.
For this application the AC unit's plastic face got in the way. So that was ditched. The only feature it provided that I might miss is an air filter that's easily cleaned periodically. That's solvable. Someday. Maybe.
Because the AC unit extends inside somewhat, the counter was notched. Many measurements went into planning the AC fit. There's barely enough room above the counter and below the window for cold air discharge. Barely but enough.
The return air intake is hidden under the counter. Airflow passageways connect the front and rear cabinets under the couch/bed. The idea is front to rear circulation. I just have to work out grills/grates at both ends. Meanwhile, it's operational as is.
Scott helped make a clever cover from coroplast. This nifty material is corrugated like cardboard but plastic instead of paper. It's lightweight, durable and weatherproof. With magnets tucked in some edge flutes it clings to the steel skin of the AC unit pretty good. Elastic cords should keep it attached at highway speeds.
Two pieces overlap across the front for double indemnity. Plus they fold flat for storage. Looks like that thin space behind the couch is useful after all.
I still prefer climates with natural air conditioning. One advantage of mobile living is turning the wheels to find pleasant weather. Since global cooling isn't happening it's prudent to adapt. Lil' yeti can be more comfortable in more places and times of year.
There's still a whole mess of cosmetic work to purdy it up. Wiring and plumbing to get everything operational. Paint. Window coverings. Hard to believe how big a project I've made from such a small camper.
