Adding U Dinette

[sailor231]

I am looking to buy an Escape 21 and my wife really likes the U-Shape Dinette option we saw at ETI. I like the idea of saving money and getting a used trailer this summer.
Most older trailers don't have the U-Shape dinette, but it seems like it would be pretty easy to add a bridge and cushion then cut down or add slides to the table. Adding a cabinet would be more work but likely possible. Has anyone done this mod or contracted ETI to do it for them?

[rbryan4]

Several people have converted the standard benches to a u-shaped dinette. If you're reasonably good with woodworking, it's not too difficult of a mod. The biggest challenge is when you want to relocate the converter or other electrical equipment. If you're not doing that, it's much simpler.

I don't recall if anyone I know has had Escape do the conversion, but I imagine they would.

One other thing to keep in mind is that you'll have to modify the stock table with the u-shaped dinette.

[Donna D.]

A bridge and two cushions, one for the back and one for the cushion would be easiest and I think more versatile. If you think you need the big table for a trip, just grab and go. Otherwise the only thing you're missing out on is some extra cabinet space. There's plenty in the 21' and I don't think you would miss what you never had.

[float5]

Originally Posted by sailor231

I am looking to buy an Escape 21 and my wife really likes the U-Shape Dinette option we saw at ETI. I like the idea of saving money and getting a used trailer this summer.
Most older trailers don't have the U-Shape dinette, but it seems like it would be pretty easy to add a bridge and cushion then cut down or add slides to the table. Adding a cabinet would be more work but likely possible. Has anyone done this mod or contracted ETI to do it for them?

Yes, you can have Escape make a U. In your location, I would just go there and they will do a good job. Others have gone a great distance to do that but you are close.

[sailor231]

We have called and are waiting on a price quote, that will be part of the new verse used decision.

[John G.]

Originally Posted by sailor231

I am looking to buy an Escape 21 and my wife really likes the U-Shape Dinette option we saw at ETI. I like the idea of saving money and getting a used trailer this summer.
Most older trailers don't have the U-Shape dinette, but it seems like it would be pretty easy to add a bridge and cushion then cut down or add slides to the table. Adding a cabinet would be more work but likely possible. Has anyone done this mod or contracted ETI to do it for them?

I had the full size table on my first 21. I replaced it with oak veneer plywood. I cut our an 18 inch bridge and a 21 inch table which I mounted on a pedestal. The original table served as my templet. I also removed the back cushions and replaced with big outdoor furniture pillows from Lowe's. What I like about the bridge is I can toss shoes and hiking boots under it. I find the pillows more versatile than cushions.

I bought a 2nd 21 and had Escape make a bridge and table just like the one I made for my first 21. I really like that configuration.

[Chuckster]

Our 5.0 TA was the floor model and it came with a standard dinette. We had Escape add a bridge filler board and a rear back cushion, plus a second filler board and cushion making a larger lounge area. We intended to make a table the size of the second filler board and mount it on a Springfield pedestal. Now we find ourselves leaving it set up in lounge mode and using the two flip up tables. We love the lounge setup and the absence of table legs or the pedestal adds lots of storage for stuff you need, but want to stash out of the way while camping.
Chuck

[sailor231]

I like the bridge idea, can anyone post pictures?

[Chuckster]

Originally Posted by sailor231

I like the bridge idea, can anyone post pictures?

Here are some pics of ours. Sorry for the clutter, we are camping this weekend.
Chuck

[Marry]

Hi Chuck! How is it going with you two? See you are making good use of your trailer...

[Chuckster]

Originally Posted by Marry

Hi Chuck! How is it going with you two? See you are making good use of your trailer...

Hi Marry,
We are doing fine. It was good to get away for a long weekend of dry camping and learn more about our trailer. Also it was a break from the heat in Denver. I hope you are doing well!
Chuck