javaseuf
California's Gold Coast
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Joined: 03/30/2005
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Many have asked me about this Mod and also asked for some details.
HERE is a link to my Photo Bucket pics.
This is the second patio deck I built. The purpose was to make it easier to gain access to the RV with my daughter's wheel chair.
The size is just shy of 6' wide and 5' deep. I estimate the weight to be around 300 pounds. It is constructed from 18 gauge 1" x 2" steel tubing. The tracks are made from channel steel with Unistrut channel inserted that the roller bearings ride in.
Attached underneath is two sets of retractable steps and three crank-down Bal jacks. The deck is made from Trex lumber.
I estimate the cost to be around $600.00 in materials and welding labor. I could have saved around $300.00 in welding costs if I had my own equipment and welding skills.
The only problem I have with this is if I fill the under-floor fresh water tank too full, it bulges and interferes with the deck being slid in. This has actually proven to be a good thing because the water I omit from the water tank, makes up for the additional weight of the deck. I just fill the tank all the way when I arrive at the campsite.
Things I would change would be a lighter material for the decking and possibly a stronger material that wouldn't require so much bracing underneath. I found that after attaching the Trex, I wasn't happy with how much the decking flexed with me and my daughter's weight when loading her into the coach so I added additional steel bracing.
The other thing I might change is the addition of a power system to extend and retract the deck.
Many have suggested that I get this patented but King Of The Road holds a patent for a similar product.
Thanks for all of the compliments and PM me if you have questions.
Kind of a sad ending for my deck.......
My daughter has been hospitalized for the past seven months and we will hopefully be going home tomorrow. But with the new treatments needed on top of the other medical needs we have been dealing with these past 21 years, it looks like our camping days are over so we will most likely be selling the trailer. A small price to pay for my wonderful daughter's well being. I still have my PUP to use to get away.
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Steve
2007 Springdale 291RKL
2009 F150, 5.4 ltr.
1986 Palomino Hard-Side PUP
"Nobody knows how we got to the top of the hill, but since we're on our way down, we might as well enjoy the ride". ("The Secret Of Life", James Taylor).
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mwallace61
Alabama
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Steve, really sorry to hear about your daughter's turn for the worse. I'll be sending some good vibes her way.
My best to you all...
Mike
Mike & Karen
ForrestGump the Wonder Dog
USA
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shootandfish1
Central Kentucky
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Joined: 02/28/2008
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Thanks for taking the time and effort.
Without getting too personal, can you hold off on selling your TT. sometimes, just the dream is all we have.
Best wishes for your family.
Fred
2003 F-250 4x4 Reg Cab 5.4l V-8 Gas 6spd 4.10 Camper Package Bilstiens Michelin XPS Traction Prodigy Brake Controller
2009 8.5x24 Diamond Cargo Soon To Be Converted to Toy Hauler/Travel Trailer
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javaseuf
California's Gold Coast
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Joined: 03/30/2005
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Thanks, guys.
I am not in a big hurry to sell and the situation with our daughter won't change.
I also use the RV to stay in a few nights a week and since either me or my wife would need to stay at home when we vacation and my wife doesn't use the RV herself, there is no reason to have a 31' trailer for just me. I can see a nice used Lazy Daze Class C in the future but............
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lzasitko
Regina, SK Canada
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Best wishes and hope things improve for you and your family.
I had thought of doing something similar with our class A but so far its never happened. Brother in law is a good welder so that side of things wouldn't cost me. I think just preserved wood decking would be lighter then what you used, Trex is pretty heavy stuff but should never have to redo it. May be on the list of things to do in the spring or over the winter.
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firecapt1
Sonoma County, CA
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Joined: 11/28/2007
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Tears came to my eyes as I read your post. Your modification is incredible and a tribute to your love for your daughter. I can only hope that you, your family, and especially your daughter will find a better future. To do all this work so that you could include your daughter in your travels is exceptional.
I have read your posts over the years and have always benefited from your expertise and wisdom. Now, I find out that in addition, you are a true prince and a most wonderful father to boot.
I can only hope that the future finds your daughter better and you can resume your travels. Please stay with the forum since we can all continue to benefit from your knowledge, and lend you our support in your troubled times.
All my good wishes and thoughts go with you.
"May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
And may you be three days in Heaven before the Devil knows you're dead."
(Traditional Gaelic blessing)
* This post was
edited 11/01/09 09:08pm by firecapt1 *
Frank, Martha & Ryan
2007 Ford F-250 SD Crew Cab
2006 Cougar 289EFS
Happy Trails to you, until we meet again! 
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stfnwuf
Vacaville, CA
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Joined: 02/21/2007
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Steve,
Your daughter is a lucky girl to have a father like you. I am sorry about her illness and send positive thoughts your way.
2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi
2010 Keystone Cougar 244RLS
Food source for one beagle and two cats
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javaseuf
California's Gold Coast
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Joined: 03/30/2005
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Thanks everyone for your words of encouragement.
Bless you all!
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