Roof vent installation

[paxvet]

Hi, I'm converting a RAM Promaster City Van into a campervan. The first thing I need to have installed is a roof mounted vent fan. Because this is a minivan, I think an 11" X 11" would be sufficient. After making lots of calls and research to van conversion businesses, I had sticker shock with quotes of $800 to have this done! I'm in L.A. and live on my service-connected veteran pension. If anyone can possibly direct me to where I can have this professionally done I would be very grateful. Do only van conversion companies do this? Thank you for any feedback!

 

[Rollin Ollen]

Hi, I'm converting a RAM Promaster City Van into a campervan. The first thing I need to have installed is a roof mounted vent fan. Because this is a minivan, I think an 11" X 11" would be sufficient. After making lots of calls and research to van conversion businesses, I had sticker shock with quotes of $800 to have this done! I'm in L.A. and live on my service-connected veteran pension. If anyone can possibly direct me to where I can have this professionally done I would be very grateful. Do only van conversion companies do this? Thank you for any feedback!

Welcome aboard paxvet.

Sticker shock is not all that unusual these days for any vehicle repair/modification. Sadly, the quote doesn't sound all that unreasonable once you look at the break down (if the procedure is supply, install from start to finis). Labor rates in excess of $200.00 hour are normal. The actual cost of the fan itself will be over $200.00. So cutting a hole in the roof. Reinforcing the opening, running 12 power to the fan in about 2 to 3 hours is not excessive.

If you are a handy kind of guy there may be an less intrusive /expensive alternative you might want to consider. Check out this youtube video.

Good luck

Darrell

 

[paxvet]

Thank you Darrell. I appreciate your feedback. I'm still exploring other options than going through this expense.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Darrell beat me to the punch!!! As I read your post I remembered this video not remembering where.

Last year one of the tents in Tyson wells (Quartzsite az) had a 12v mini-split. That's another option!!!

 

[CheapRV]

Hi, I'm converting a RAM Promaster City Van into a campervan. The first thing I need to have installed is a roof mounted vent fan. Because this is a minivan, I think an 11" X 11" would be sufficient. After making lots of calls and research to van conversion businesses, I had sticker shock with quotes of $800 to have this done! I'm in L.A. and live on my service-connected veteran pension. If anyone can possibly direct me to where I can have this professionally done I would be very grateful. Do only van conversion companies do this? Thank you for any feedback!

Hi Paxvet,

The total cost can vary depending on whether you do the installation yourself or hire a professional.

1. DIY Installation: If you opt to install the roof vent fan yourself, you’ll primarily need to budget for the cost of the fan itself. High-quality fans like the Maxxair or Fan-Tastic Vent can range from $100 to $300, depending on the features (e.g., built-in thermostat, remote control, or rain sensor). Additionally, you may need supplies such as sealant (around $10 to $20), screws, and basic tools.
2. Professional Installation: If you prefer to hire a professional, labor costs can add significantly to the expense. Installation fees could range from $100 to $200 or more, depending on the complexity of the job and the labor rates in your area.

Overall, for a DIY job, you might spend $120 to $350, while professional installation could range from $200 to $500, depending on the factors mentioned.

 

[paxvet]

Hi Paxvet,

The total cost can vary depending on whether you do the installation yourself or hire a professional.

1. DIY Installation: If you opt to install the roof vent fan yourself, you’ll primarily need to budget for the cost of the fan itself. High-quality fans like the Maxxair or Fan-Tastic Vent can range from $100 to $300, depending on the features (e.g., built-in thermostat, remote control, or rain sensor). Additionally, you may need supplies such as sealant (around $10 to $20), screws, and basic tools.
2. Professional Installation: If you prefer to hire a professional, labor costs can add significantly to the expense. Installation fees could range from $100 to $200 or more, depending on the complexity of the job and the labor rates in your area.

Overall, for a DIY job, you might spend $120 to $350, while professional installation could range from $200 to $500, depending on the factors mentioned.

Hi CheapRV.. Thanks so much for your informative detailed advice!! It gets more expensive to have the installation done here in L.A. up to $800&... I'm also looking at metal fabrication shops that could do it for less.

 

[Wemustrv]

The installation is not difficult if you are not only handy but quality conscious and do it properly. Make accurate and precise cuts. Make sure you add reinforcing to the opening and use good insulated wiring. Use butyl tape between the fan and the roof and then use Dicor to seal around the frame exterior. Many of these vehicles actually have a spot on the roof that is flat for this exact reason

 

[paxvet]

Much thanks Wemustrv!