20carfans
Chesapeake, VA
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Joined: 10/08/2007
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I was just puttering around doing PM on the trailer today and I figured I would check the AC mounting bolts. I put a 5/16 socket on a 6" extension (no ratchet) and found I could easily tighten the bolts by hand. Should I put the ratchet on the bolts and put another 1/2 turn on them? A full turn? Or leave them be right there?
I could only see 2 bolts without removing the entire plastic interior housing (where the switches are attached).
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fordsooperdooty
Orange Kounty Kalifornia
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Joined: 08/13/2004
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All 4 bolts need to be tightened snug but not too tightly, enough to compress the foam gasket firmly to the rv roof. You'll have to remove the interior ceiling mounted ac filter access cover. After several years, the gasket will no longer compress enough (or begin to deteriorate) to the point that the roof ac will have to be removed and a new foam gasket installed.
A Jayco is not just an RV, it's a life choice! 
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Golden_HVAC
Fulltime, CA, USA
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Joined: 08/19/2003
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HI,
I agree with the above post. You need to snug the bolts a little every 2-3 years, but not enough to over compress the gasket, or it will lose it's height, and need replacement after only 4-6 years. It also prevents to much vibration from coming through if there is some flexibility.
Good Luck,
Fred.
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Chuck&Gail
In the Colorado Mountains
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Joined: 06/16/2004
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IMO if it isn't dripping any water inside, snug a little by hand but no more. I've done it once in 6 years and over 50,0000 miles so far.
Chuck
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20carfans
Chesapeake, VA
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Joined: 10/08/2007
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Thanks for the responses. I tightened as much as could by hand without the ratchet. I appreciate your input. I just did not want to kick myself should a leak occur.
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w8eh
SW Ohio
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Joined: 02/09/2006
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You should keep a close eye on this. In my Jayco 23b, the AC bolts were finger tight (no socket needed to move). This let water under the gasket. Part of my ceiling got water damage, of course after the warranty expired.
Keep the edges of the hole clean and inspect this area often for any water leakage. Don't be afraid to put an extra turn on the bolts beyond what you have done. It will take several turns to compress the gasket 'too far'.
New 2006 Jayco 23B HTT
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