Replacing roof vent system

[DonnaD]

We need to replace the whole roof vent unit due to vandalism. The local RV dealer has a 3 week waiting list and charges $189/hour labor. After watching some you tube videos, I think it's something my husband and I can tackle ourselves.

Has anyone done this? Any tips/tricks would be appreciated.

[steveb285rks]

I did on my old Dutchmen. Removed the basic no-fan hatch and installed a Fantastic Fan. The hardest part is separating the flange from the sealant but work slow. If something happens to the roof (assuming rubber) it can be patched with Eternabond.

[Subaru297]

You are correct that replacing your vent is a pretty easy job.

Scrape a bit of sealant off so you can unscrew all the screws.
Have someone push up from inside while you pull from the roof top as the sealant is really sticky.
Clean off as much of the old sealant and butyl tape as you can.
Have some butyl tape and some roof sealant (Dicor) ready for the reinstall.
Hook up the new fan/vent and test its function.
Lay down butyl tape around vent opening.
Install fan facing the correct direction!
Recheck that the vent opens the right way and the fan works and rotates the right way.

Once you have confirmed a proper install apply dicor or other roof sealant over screw heads.

Enjoy your new and improved vent fan.

Cheers

[DonnaD]

Thank you!!

[poohbear]

Originally Posted by DonnaD

We need to replace the whole roof vent unit due to vandalism. The local RV dealer has a 3 week waiting list and charges $189/hour labor. After watching some you tube videos, I think it's something my husband and I can tackle ourselves.

Has anyone done this? Any tips/tricks would be appreciated.

No insurance ? If it was parked at your house check with homeowners policy since vandalism.

[JFlightRisk]

One tip from experience (yes, I had a vandal break in to our MH, and went in through the vent) the warmer the day, the easier the butyl lets loose from the roof. Go slow, and carefully so as to not damage the roof material. A plastic body putty applicator works well as a scraper.
It's really an easy repair.