To review, when we mounted the original gas springs we had correctly chosen a pair of 150# springs. However, both the struts themselves and the mounting hardware proved incapable of supporting the load. So we had a local welder cut some 1/4" stainless steel mounting plates, ordered some 5/16x18 ball studs for attaching the struts, and ordered a pair of much heavier-duty 150# gas springs.
New Struts: ASR/Raymond part number GSNI-3000-150.
This is the port side anchor inside the galley:
The oak block spaces the connection point out to match the point on the hatch itself. The stainless plate is through-bolted to the trailer side; the cavity in this area has been built out solid to distribute the stresses.
Below is the hatch attachment:
This plate bolts through the side of the hatch - the laminated oak rib, and lowers the pivot point below the rib.
These struts have significantly beefier rods than the previous version. If you have a need for real heavy-duty struts, do see the ASR/Raymond products. Their cost is maybe 40% higher, but well worth it, and, since these struts cost under $30 each, cost is not a big issue.
Today I started replacing the foam insulation in the sides now that almost all of the work we needed to do where the insulation was either in the way or would have to be refit is complete.
This shot highlights all the electrical wiring that is running through the walls. Visible above is an AC run from the front to an outlet inside the main cabin under the shelves, and on to an outlet inside the galley. Also above is a run for the clearance markers, and a pigtail for the light over the door.
The main DC circuitry is on the other side and is much busier.
Also since the last post Sean has nearly completed the electrical work. A few loose ends (literally) remain, but the bulk of the system has been tested for proper function. The lights inside the cabin are mounted, the side-mount fan is mounted, the outlets inside the cabin are in place and wired, the speaker wires are routed and pulled, the lights under the hatch are mounted, and the pump is wired.
The balance of the pluming is almost complete. The tank is positioned and provisioned with an outfeed and drain, as well as a fill pipe. The outfeed passes through a screen to the on-demand pump which then feeds a Moen water filtration system. The sink is set and the drain is in place. What remains is to mount the faucet and test the system.
I have been applying finish to the doors and drawers for under the galley and the galley counter edge. As soon as the electrical and plumbing under the hatch are complete I will install the counter edge, permanently mount and adjust the other components and mount the closure hardware. I will also complete the finishing process of the galley walls and install a rail that will be mounted on top of the cabinets.
Tomorrow though I am scheduled to start insulating the roof. And, with any luck, the Filon covering will arrive.
The days have been very warm and humid; today was brutally hot but only slightly less humid. That limits work time as the environment under the tent can be much warmer, even though it is well ventilated. Today my eyes were burning from the perspiration from my brow.
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