What factory modifications have been made by owners or prospective owners? - Page 2

gbaglo · 01-10-2009, 06:02 PM

I discovered the "wood look" material on the sides of the fridge compartment when I carelessly removed an adhesive hook. The layer of "wood" is extremely thin. I expect the bathroom door is the same material. I haven't done a survey, but I suspect that material is used in areas with large panels that are subject to low wear.
The cupboards and frames, I believe, are all the real thing.
Need to get Reace to say what's what. If it was all oak, it would add significant weight.

Which creates a whole new thread. What have you done to cover up or repair damage you've done?

First thing I did is go back to Canadian Tire and read the instructions for the removal of 3M adhesive hooks. The instructions work. Then I placed my new hook over the damaged area.

So far, that's the only real damage I've done.

baglo

mosquitodirk · 01-10-2009, 07:43 PM

I was lost outside of Kamloops (temporarily) and got onto a long, dark, desolate dirt road with no place to turn around (with trailer). So I tried anyways - it was the ditch that bent and made my step ineffective.

Dad and a hammer were the tools needed to remold the de-molded step.

Ace Brown · 01-11-2009, 07:32 PM

Answering some questions posted on my changes:

The fridge was removed for repairs as it was not cooling on AC and while it was out I removed the thin paneling on the inside of the fridge cabinet and installed foam sheet insulation all around. Also had the fridge fan installed by the repair folks before replacing the unit, and yes, to help air circulation when the outside air is hot, or sunshine is hard on the fridge side.

The "paper wood" is pretty much in all the larger panels, cabinet lining, etc. I had some stuff scotch taped to my fridge and when removed it peeled off the "wood". Velcro or anything stuck on this material will damage it when removed. I have no idea how to repair w/o having it show. I may try some careful paint like when they do art restoration.

The blinds are factory horizontal folding type which are OK, except when they are closed there is very little air flow under/around. The shields I described where cut to fit to help insulate the windows.

The "jack skids" are two half circles welded on each side of jack to act as skids when on rough roads, or if God forbid, the trailer ever gets loose and drags on the safety chains. Another hoop was welded to the side of tonge near the jack to act as a HD handle when trying to move the trailer by hand.

Presently I am wintering in Florida, but "way off the beaten track".

Ace

Ps: the post about the damaged step reminded me of another factory mod that Reace came up with. My step is removable so the type of mishap described could not happen.

Sandra L · 01-12-2009, 02:49 PM

Ace,
Thanks for the input, I will inquire about those things before mine is started. Were you talking about the fridge front or side? I was wondering if the fridge front was magnet friendly. I just finished talking to Tammy who as always is gracious and she is getting back to me on my myriad of questions. I ordered four extra exterior lights that are going to be on a separate switch, for safety and utilitarian purposes. I have also ordered a second set of rear tail lights that will above the back window. Hopefully, that will deter the close followers and aid in back-up as well.
Is Florida warm now? It's nippy in the Sacramento Valley.

Sandra

gbaglo · 01-12-2009, 06:13 PM

If you do damage the "wood look" surfaces in your Escape, there is a possible solution. It comes from Lee Valley Tools ( leevalley.com ), my source for answers to all kinds of problems.

They sell wood veneer sheets and edge banding. It's available in mahogany, cherry, red oak, white oak, maple and walnut. Each sheet is 1 / 100 inch thick and tenderized ( so they won't crack ), sanded and paper backed. Sheets measure 24" wide and 96" long ( $59 Can. ).

1/100 inch doesn't sound like much, but it's a heck of a lot thicker than the paper surface you would be covering.

If you wanted to get really creative, they have box of assorted, usable pieces, for $52. You could create your own mosaic art piece to cover damage.

baglo

escape artist · 01-12-2009, 06:54 PM

Hi: All... Wood look repairs could be done with the wax crayons avail in wood tones in the paint dept. of most building centers& paint stores.
Escape Artist N.S. of Lake Erie

Ace Brown · 01-19-2009, 10:30 PM

[quote=Sandra L ]
Ace,
Thanks for the input, I will inquire about those things before mine is started. Were you talking about the fridge front or side? I was wondering if the fridge front was magnet friendly. I just finished talking to Tammy who as always is gracious and she is getting back to me on my myriad of questions. I ordered four extra exterior lights that are going to be on a separate switch, for safety and utilitarian purposes. I have also ordered a second set of rear tail lights that will above the back window. Hopefully, that will deter the close followers and aid in back-up as well.
Is Florida warm now? It's nippy in the Sacramento Valley.

Sandra
[/quote

I was referring to fridge door surface which will not hold a magnet, but I expect differnt fridge options could be of different materials. High mounted lights are an excellant idea. I wish I had thought of that when building.

Presently Fla is warm but it was very cold last week. But hey, it could be a lot worse. Fargo, ND was 40 below one day last week.

Ace

Sandra L · 01-27-2009, 12:03 PM

http://home-and-garden.webshots.com/...74862465DcCmuZ
I found this site while browsing. This lady came up with some ideas that some may find useful. Apparently she like to sew also. I wonder how good the awning tie idea works.
Sandra

Sandra L · 05-02-2009, 04:16 PM

Here's a couple that I'm having: Two doors above the dinette wardrobe area (because I am short); the larger front passenger side window as in the 19'.

escape artist · 05-02-2009, 04:48 PM

Hi: Sandra L... Is that your trailer "In cue baited"

Won't be long now!!!
escape artist N. S. of Lake Erie

Sandra L · 05-03-2009, 12:32 PM

Needless to say, I'm excited. This jewel is a long time coming. As I may have indicated, I spent a lot of time looking and making comparisons. When I saw the "Eureka (literally) Escape", I knew immediately that I had found what I was looking for.

I'm sure Tammy's ears are a bit worn from all the calls and she got a bit more exercise from running back and forth for measurements and getting my questions answered. Reace no doubt wondered where I got some of my ideas, but also was very patient and helpful. They both have been so good to work with and it is evident that they strive to please. I feel fortunate to have found them.

You may also like: