Drumstick63
Advanced Member
Hello,
I have been lurking on the forum for a few years now, trying to learn as much as possible for a new Escape trailer build. My wife and I previously had another brand of fiberglass egg that we sold in the summer of 2013 with plans to get an Escape fifth wheel. Well the time is NOW! ;D Our build sheet is due in a few days (2/1) and we still aren’t sure about everything! Help! We are trying to create a versatile build as we plan to camp as much as possible off-grid (National Parks, National Forests, BLM, etc) but will also be camping hooked up to a current bush quite a bit. Also, we are hoping to travel once we retire and really don’t know what situations we will be in. We do realize that some of our “wish list” items may need to be deleted at the end due to cost. Please look over the following build sheet and give advice as any help would be welcome! At the end of the build sheet are some questions for which we need answers. I apologize in advance for the length of this post and the number of questions, but my wife and I are trying to make sure we don't miss something important or misunderstand anything. This is nerve-wracking and fun at the same time! Hope to see you at the Rally...
Thanks in advance,
Mark & Mary McMorris
Escape 5.0TA
Dometic RMD 8555 Dual Door 6.7 Fridge
2 - Way Hot Water Tank
Oven with 3 Burner Cooktop
Additional 12V Interior Outlet (1 near TV Ready. Need to determine other locations as we like to camp off-grid)
Additional 120V Outlet
Air Conditioner
Digital Thermostat
5 Aluminum Rims
Bike Rack Ready (NEED BOAT PULL READY, complete with wiring & attachment point for safety chains)
Dual 6V Batteries
Exterior 12V Outlet (located near existing 120V outlet)
Exterior Access Hatch
Exterior Shower (Driver Side)
Exterior Propane Quick Connect with 12' Propane Hose and Adapter
Inverter 1500W
Transfer Switch to include all outlets
LED Interior Light Package
LED Exterior Light (X4, Driver, Passenger, Front, Rear)
LED Captains Reading Lamps (2 at head of bed. Considering 2 at rear corners over dinette or possibly 4 at dinette)
MaxxFann with Remote 7000K (Upgrade)
Microwave
Opening Window in Bathroom
Propane Tanks - Filled
Removable Power Cord
160W Solar Panel with Charger
Spray Foam Insulation for Under Trailer
Stainless Steel Sink & Chrome Faucet
Starter kit
Surge Protector
Thermal Windows (Non-Thermal Opening Windows in Bed Area) & Double Insulation Upgrade
12V Outlet near TV Ready
Custom Formica
Custom Fabric
Convert Bench Seat to U Shaped Dinette
Mattress Cover
Throw Cushions x 4
Foot Flush Toilet
Opening Thermal Window over Sink
Install Umbra Hooks at orientation
Winterizing T-Valve
Toilet Shut-Off Valve
Light Switches at Door (All Interior, Only Center Ceiling, All Exterior, Only Porch)
Counter Extensions X 3
Pads on scissor jacks
Add EZ Lube Grease Hub System to the Spring Axles with EZ Flex Suspension
Extra Cushion(s) and filler board to make a lounge area
12V Drops in upper cabinets for later use
QUESTIONS.
1) Television
a) What is the largest size recommended for the 5.0TA?
b) Do you recommend the Wall Mount Extendable TV Arm or do you prefer another type?
c) Thinking of getting Jack Antenna which includes TV Ready with 120V. We will definitely add a 12V outlet to the TV Ready location so we have the ability to use a 12V TV. Is a second TV in the dinette area advisable or can the TV in the normal 5.0TA location be seen from the dinette?
d) We would like the ability to use the Jack Antenna, be able to hookup to cable at a campsite if available, and potentially use a satellite antenna (TailGator with DISH) in the future when we retire. Are all these options possible with the Jack Antenna setup from Escape?
e) We would like to be able to use the DVD player and speakers from a stereo system with the TV. Is that possible a standard Escape TV and Stereo setup?
f) Is an HDMI cable run advisable?
2) Stereo
We would like a stereo but don’t want to have unnecessary holes for items that may become obsolete due to technology. Also, we are not sure of the quality of construction or sound of the model that Escape provides. Are there wireless options available that allow the use of the DVD and speakers with the TV?
3) Shelves in the Wardrobe Closet
May forego this and just use a plastic 3-drawer dresser inside that will still allow the use of closet rod to hang clothes. What do you think? Should I have Wall 7 reinforced for possible future shelves in the wardrobe closet?
4) Horst Miracle Tank Probes
We were considering this but they have been discontinued by the manufacturer. I believe I can still locate the probes though. Would these probes be durable enough for the ICE cleaning method for the black tank? Is there a way to keep the stock probes working for the gray tank (we can visually check the level of the black tank if necessary)?
5) Shower and Sink
We will use campground showers on some occasions but will also use the 5.0TA shower. Is there enough room to shower? Is it best to not have the sink installed?
6) Oxygenics Showerhead
We are considering upgrading the shower to an Oxygenics Showerhead. It seems rather large and we are wondering if it is too large for the 5.0TA bathroom? Does the wall need additional reinforcement? Would it be more prone to falling off during travel and damaging the fiberglass shower?
7) Texas Fan
Does this make sense for the Dometic RMD 8555 Dual Door 6.7 Fridge?
8) Fridge Fix
Does this make sense for the Dometic RMD 8555 Dual Door 6.7 Fridge?
9) Dinette Table
Considering not having the Dinette table mounted but have it supplied loose on delivery. This would give us a chance to try it without the table and install it later if needed. What do you think? Is the table install something that would be difficult and best be done by Escape?
10) Backup Camera
a) Is it possible to install a wired backup camera, with the camera mounted above the rear window, after the build?
b) Is it possible to install a wireless backup camera, with the camera mounted above the rear window, after the build?
11) Additional Brake Lights
Does the 5.0TA need additional lights added for better visibility when carrying bikes on the rear?
12) Heat Strip for A/C
Do these really work or is it better to bring a portable electric cube heater?
13) Power Outlets In Cubbies
We would like 12V and 120V Outlets in the cubbies at the head of the bed. Will Escape install these?
14) LED Awning Light Strip
We are considering this but have never seen one. How is it powered on/off?
15) Umbro Hooks
Is it necessary to reinforce the walls where Umbro Hooks will be installed?
16) Hitch Lock
What brand\model does Escape sell and do you recommend it or another kind?
17) Step(s)
What are the step(s) made of (steel or aluminum) and how many steps?
18) Other
Any upgrades recommended that we don’t have listed (better monitoring, larger wiring, vents in cabinets, etc.)
THANK YOU!!!
I have been lurking on the forum for a few years now, trying to learn as much as possible for a new Escape trailer build. My wife and I previously had another brand of fiberglass egg that we sold in the summer of 2013 with plans to get an Escape fifth wheel. Well the time is NOW! ;D Our build sheet is due in a few days (2/1) and we still aren’t sure about everything! Help! We are trying to create a versatile build as we plan to camp as much as possible off-grid (National Parks, National Forests, BLM, etc) but will also be camping hooked up to a current bush quite a bit. Also, we are hoping to travel once we retire and really don’t know what situations we will be in. We do realize that some of our “wish list” items may need to be deleted at the end due to cost. Please look over the following build sheet and give advice as any help would be welcome! At the end of the build sheet are some questions for which we need answers. I apologize in advance for the length of this post and the number of questions, but my wife and I are trying to make sure we don't miss something important or misunderstand anything. This is nerve-wracking and fun at the same time! Hope to see you at the Rally...
Thanks in advance,
Mark & Mary McMorris
Escape 5.0TA
Dometic RMD 8555 Dual Door 6.7 Fridge
2 - Way Hot Water Tank
Oven with 3 Burner Cooktop
Additional 12V Interior Outlet (1 near TV Ready. Need to determine other locations as we like to camp off-grid)
Additional 120V Outlet
Air Conditioner
Digital Thermostat
5 Aluminum Rims
Bike Rack Ready (NEED BOAT PULL READY, complete with wiring & attachment point for safety chains)
Dual 6V Batteries
Exterior 12V Outlet (located near existing 120V outlet)
Exterior Access Hatch
Exterior Shower (Driver Side)
Exterior Propane Quick Connect with 12' Propane Hose and Adapter
Inverter 1500W
Transfer Switch to include all outlets
LED Interior Light Package
LED Exterior Light (X4, Driver, Passenger, Front, Rear)
LED Captains Reading Lamps (2 at head of bed. Considering 2 at rear corners over dinette or possibly 4 at dinette)
MaxxFann with Remote 7000K (Upgrade)
Microwave
Opening Window in Bathroom
Propane Tanks - Filled
Removable Power Cord
160W Solar Panel with Charger
Spray Foam Insulation for Under Trailer
Stainless Steel Sink & Chrome Faucet
Starter kit
Surge Protector
Thermal Windows (Non-Thermal Opening Windows in Bed Area) & Double Insulation Upgrade
12V Outlet near TV Ready
Custom Formica
Custom Fabric
Convert Bench Seat to U Shaped Dinette
Mattress Cover
Throw Cushions x 4
Foot Flush Toilet
Opening Thermal Window over Sink
Install Umbra Hooks at orientation
Winterizing T-Valve
Toilet Shut-Off Valve
Light Switches at Door (All Interior, Only Center Ceiling, All Exterior, Only Porch)
Counter Extensions X 3
Pads on scissor jacks
Add EZ Lube Grease Hub System to the Spring Axles with EZ Flex Suspension
Extra Cushion(s) and filler board to make a lounge area
12V Drops in upper cabinets for later use
QUESTIONS.
1) Television
a) What is the largest size recommended for the 5.0TA?
b) Do you recommend the Wall Mount Extendable TV Arm or do you prefer another type?
c) Thinking of getting Jack Antenna which includes TV Ready with 120V. We will definitely add a 12V outlet to the TV Ready location so we have the ability to use a 12V TV. Is a second TV in the dinette area advisable or can the TV in the normal 5.0TA location be seen from the dinette?
d) We would like the ability to use the Jack Antenna, be able to hookup to cable at a campsite if available, and potentially use a satellite antenna (TailGator with DISH) in the future when we retire. Are all these options possible with the Jack Antenna setup from Escape?
e) We would like to be able to use the DVD player and speakers from a stereo system with the TV. Is that possible a standard Escape TV and Stereo setup?
f) Is an HDMI cable run advisable?
2) Stereo
We would like a stereo but don’t want to have unnecessary holes for items that may become obsolete due to technology. Also, we are not sure of the quality of construction or sound of the model that Escape provides. Are there wireless options available that allow the use of the DVD and speakers with the TV?
3) Shelves in the Wardrobe Closet
May forego this and just use a plastic 3-drawer dresser inside that will still allow the use of closet rod to hang clothes. What do you think? Should I have Wall 7 reinforced for possible future shelves in the wardrobe closet?
4) Horst Miracle Tank Probes
We were considering this but they have been discontinued by the manufacturer. I believe I can still locate the probes though. Would these probes be durable enough for the ICE cleaning method for the black tank? Is there a way to keep the stock probes working for the gray tank (we can visually check the level of the black tank if necessary)?
5) Shower and Sink
We will use campground showers on some occasions but will also use the 5.0TA shower. Is there enough room to shower? Is it best to not have the sink installed?
6) Oxygenics Showerhead
We are considering upgrading the shower to an Oxygenics Showerhead. It seems rather large and we are wondering if it is too large for the 5.0TA bathroom? Does the wall need additional reinforcement? Would it be more prone to falling off during travel and damaging the fiberglass shower?
7) Texas Fan
Does this make sense for the Dometic RMD 8555 Dual Door 6.7 Fridge?
8) Fridge Fix
Does this make sense for the Dometic RMD 8555 Dual Door 6.7 Fridge?
9) Dinette Table
Considering not having the Dinette table mounted but have it supplied loose on delivery. This would give us a chance to try it without the table and install it later if needed. What do you think? Is the table install something that would be difficult and best be done by Escape?
10) Backup Camera
a) Is it possible to install a wired backup camera, with the camera mounted above the rear window, after the build?
b) Is it possible to install a wireless backup camera, with the camera mounted above the rear window, after the build?
11) Additional Brake Lights
Does the 5.0TA need additional lights added for better visibility when carrying bikes on the rear?
12) Heat Strip for A/C
Do these really work or is it better to bring a portable electric cube heater?
13) Power Outlets In Cubbies
We would like 12V and 120V Outlets in the cubbies at the head of the bed. Will Escape install these?
14) LED Awning Light Strip
We are considering this but have never seen one. How is it powered on/off?
15) Umbro Hooks
Is it necessary to reinforce the walls where Umbro Hooks will be installed?
16) Hitch Lock
What brand\model does Escape sell and do you recommend it or another kind?
17) Step(s)
What are the step(s) made of (steel or aluminum) and how many steps?
18) Other
Any upgrades recommended that we don’t have listed (better monitoring, larger wiring, vents in cabinets, etc.)
THANK YOU!!!
