Hi , need a little help. I have a 2002 Terry Dakota 28' RLS 5th wheel.My rig does not have a ladder to access the roof, I want to install one so I will be able to install, then adjust PV solar panels. Could someone help me figure out where to install a after market ladder. A stud finder does not find the Alum. studs behind a smooth fiberglass sides. Any owners of like rigs ?? Pictures?
You will probably get some comments from those who have faced this before. Meanwhile, I'll just throw out some thoughts.
Some trailers that don't have ladders, will have "ladder prep", meaning the framing is present for the ladder if it had been ordered. The manufacturer should be able to tell you if your does, and where it should be. Left or right side, etc. If you're lucky, they might even sell you the ladder ready to fit. Terry is gone, so that is probably out.
Did you try your stud finder on the inside walls? It might be more likely to find them through the luan inside panels.
If I could not confirm location of the framing for the ladder, I would instead buy a collapsing ladder and carry it in the basement, or build an under frame rack. To be honest, the ladder on my fiver is marginal for anyone over 120lbs, and so far I have not convinced the wife that going on the roof is her job. I like having the ladder permanently attached, and I'm sure you do too, but I don't think it would be a major issue if I had to carry a portable.
Sorry can't help with ladder installation, however there may be a reason no ladder. Some RV's are not meant to have someone walk on them. Might want to check that out before you go to the expense and effort of ladder installation.
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Another vote for a collapsible ladder.
Lots of uses - and you can use it wherever it's needed.
As bpounds suggests - the attached ladders are not something I really want to put my faith in!.
I have a perm mounted ladder - and will use a *real* ladder if I'm at home - or my collapsible ladder if needed on the road.
If you still want a permanently mounted ladder you can take your time and watch for another Terry with a ladder & rear configuration the same as yours.
(Ask the owner if it's OK to measure for bracket locations.)
BTW - a good place to check for a used perm mount ladder would be an RV salvage yard.
If your TT does not have a ladder it is not a walk on roof. If it has a ladder it is a walk on roof. Hope you can do your install and adjustments from a ladder......But that would be the first 5er I have seen without a ladder..
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Glad this topic is here! Been looking for a 'collapable ladder' for my 36' class A for over a week. Like others, I just don't like the installed ladder, and want to be able to move the ladder around the perimeter of the coach.
SUGGESTIONS for a good quality, high capacity ladder that telescopes or folds down to fit in belly box, or hang/transport on the original equipment ladder?
I don't trust my RV ladder to much either, but it sure looks nice
HD carries these which is most likely less money than mounting one.
The Little Giant is designed to be the safest ladder on the planet and can be used safely on stairs, ramps, curbs, docks or other uneven surfaces. And, with the patented triple-locking hinge, the Little Giant Ladder is sturdier than ever in the extended position. The Little Giant is made of heavy-wall, 6005-T5 aluminum, the very same material used in aerospace construction. So, it's ultra-strong while remaining light and portable. In fact, the Little Giant Type 1A is government-rated to hold up to 300 pounds. When you buy a Little Giant, you're not just getting one ladder, you're getting 24 different ladders combined to make the world's most versatile ladder system. The addition of tip and glide wheels makes your Little Giant easy to maneuver and store. The Model 17 has a step ladder height of 4 ft. & adjusts up to 7 ft. in 1 ft. increments. The extension height is 9 ft. & adjusts up to 15 ft. in 1 ft. increments. This ladder also stores in 4 ft. 7 in. of space.
45Ricochet wrote: I don't trust my RV ladder to much either, but it sure looks nice
HD carries these which is most likely less money than mounting one.
The Little Giant
We use our RV ladder and I agree with all here that they are marginal at best. We also own a Little Giant and although we don't travel with it we do love it and would highly recommend one for those of you who like life-long investment equipment vs. 0-5 year lifecycle stuff.
I have to wonder if an RV roof is not made to walk on, maintenance must involve additional steps, like laying down plywood wherever you have to walk? That would be a bummer. But luckily it's only 2 times a year I suppose.
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I was washing our roof 3 weeks ago and thought how solid the ladder was. I know some are not so great.
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