Replacing Rooftop Ac Gasket: A Camper's Guide

If your camper's air conditioner is leaking, it's probably time to replace the rooftop gasket. This is a fairly simple task, but it requires a basic understanding of the air conditioner's components and the correct tools to avoid damaging your RV. The gasket is a protective barrier that prevents external elements like debris, pests, and water from infiltrating your RV. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your camper's rooftop AC gasket, ensuring a secure and efficient installation.

How to Replace a Rooftop AC Gasket on a Camper

Identify signs of a faulty seal

The A/C gasket is an essential component for protecting your RV. It is a protective barrier that prevents external elements such as rain, debris, and pests from infiltrating beneath the air conditioning unit. Without a properly functioning gasket, your RV becomes vulnerable to things like debris, pests, and water damage.

• Water leaks – Water leakage around the air conditioner is a clear sign that the gasket needs to be replaced. Rainwater can find its way into your RV, creating stained ceilings and wet surroundings.
• Loss of shape – Over time, the gasket can become compressed and start to lose its shape, leading to gaps that allow water and pests to enter.
• Deterioration – As the gasket ages, it can become brittle, hard, and unable to seal the opening properly, allowing moisture to enter the RV.
• Poor alignment – If the A/C unit is not aligned properly during installation, the gasket may not seal correctly, resulting in water leaks.
• Subpar manufacturing – Some gaskets are made with cheap materials that cannot withstand prolonged sun exposure, causing them to deteriorate and fail over time.

It is recommended to perform a thorough inspection of your RV's weatherstripping at least every 6 months to catch any problems early on and prevent costly damage.

Remove the air conditioner's shroud and set it aside

To remove the air conditioner's shroud, you will first need to place old blankets or towels around the air conditioner to prevent scratching the paint. If necessary, use masking tape to hold the blankets or towels in place.

Next, locate the bolts or screws that hold the shroud in place. Remove them carefully and place them in a safe location so they don't get lost. Pull the shroud off the unit's internal components and set it aside.

Each model varies, so you may need to refer to the RV and A/C manual for specific instructions on disassembling the shroud. It is important to note that you will need to be extra cautious when handling the shroud, as it can be quite delicate.

Once the shroud is removed, you will be able to access the fasteners holding the air conditioner to the roof. You can then proceed to the next steps of replacing the gasket.

Disconnect the electrical connections

Disconnecting the electrical connections is an important step in replacing a rooftop AC gasket on a camper. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this safely and effectively:

Before beginning any work on your camper's AC unit, it is crucial to ensure that all power sources are disconnected from the unit. This is an essential safety precaution that must be taken to eliminate the risk of electric shock. Once you have confirmed that the power is off, you can proceed with the next steps.

The next step is to carefully remove the shroud or cover of the AC unit, exposing its interior components. This step may vary depending on the model of your AC unit, but it typically involves unscrewing or unbolting any fasteners holding the shroud in place. Make sure to keep these fasteners in a safe place so they don't get lost.

Now, locate the electrical connections that supply power to the AC unit. These connections can usually be found where the AC unit meets the ceiling assembly or control box. In some cases, the electrical supply wire may not need to be removed, but it is important to carefully assess the specific setup of your AC unit.

If your AC unit uses a harness-style connector, carefully unsnap it to disconnect the electrical connection. For units without a connector, you may need to use cutters to carefully cut the wires. Ensure that you have identified the correct wires before cutting and always make sure the power is off to avoid any electrical hazards.

After disconnecting the electrical connections, you will be able to slide or lift the AC unit out of the way. It is recommended to have an assistant to help with this step, as the unit can be heavy and awkward to manoeuvre. Be cautious not to damage the exterior of the camper or the AC unit itself during this process.

Once the AC unit is safely moved out of the way, you can proceed with the next steps of the gasket replacement process, such as cleaning the old gasket residue and preparing the surface for the new gasket installation. Remember to work carefully and patiently throughout the entire process to ensure a safe and effective repair.

By following these detailed instructions for disconnecting the electrical connections, you can confidently and safely replace the rooftop AC gasket on your camper, preventing leaks and ensuring a proper seal.

Clean the surface and remove residue

To clean the surface and remove residue, you'll need to gather the right tools and materials. Safety should be a priority, so be sure to wear safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask. You'll also need a gasket remover, razor blades or scrapers, brake cleaner or engine degreaser, Scotch-Brite pads or fine-grit sandpaper, cleaning brushes, clean rags or towels, and a precision straight edge.

Once you have your tools and safety gear ready, follow these steps:

• Ensure the area is well-ventilated and the engine is completely cold before beginning work.
• Remove any old gasket material or residue by gently scraping it away with a razor blade or scraper. Be careful not to scratch or damage the surface.
• Wipe away loose debris and gasket residue with a clean rag or towel.
• Apply a generous amount of brake cleaner or engine degreaser to the surface to break down any remaining oil and grime. Let it sit for a few minutes.
• Use Scotch-Brite pads or fine-grit sandpaper to gently scrub the surface in a circular motion. This will help remove stubborn residue and smooth out minor imperfections. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid gouging or scratching the surface.
• Check the surface for flatness and ensure it is free of any imperfections. Use a precision straight edge and a feeler gauge to check for any gaps or irregularities.
• Wipe down the surface with a clean rag or towel to remove any remaining cleaning chemicals and debris. Ensure the surface is completely dry and free of any contamination.

By thoroughly cleaning and preparing the surface, you'll ensure a proper seal for your new gasket, preventing leaks and maintaining the integrity of your camper's air conditioning system.

Place the new gasket and restore the air conditioner

Now that you've removed the old gasket and cleaned the area, it's time to place the new gasket and restore the air conditioner.

First, position the new gasket over the opening in the roof. Be sure to refer to the instructions that came with your specific gasket for proper placement. Some gaskets have a pressure-sensitive adhesive backing that you'll need to carefully remove before pressing the gasket into place. Others may need to be held in place with screws or bolts.

Next, position the air conditioner over the new gasket. You may need to reconnect any wiring that was disconnected during the disassembly process. Reattach the air conditioner according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring that all fasteners and screws are secure.

If your air conditioner has a shroud, carefully replace it, being mindful not to damage any wires or other components. Once everything is in place, test the unit to ensure it's functioning properly.

If you're uncomfortable with any part of this process, don't hesitate to contact a qualified RV repair specialist for assistance. They can ensure that the job is done correctly and perform any necessary maintenance or tune-ups on your air conditioner.

Frequently asked questions