Adding a Window to Slide-out Sidewalls

[Scanner]

I want to add a pair of windows to the slide-out sidewalls on my 2016 Passport GT 2510RB. Contacted Keystone and asked when windows were NOT installed in the original design; was it cost, weight or structural issues. The only response I received was "Keystone does not recommend that kind of modification". When I asked again, I got the same response. Has anyone attempted this type of modification. I have looked at whether there is wiring in the walls but I am concerned that adding a window my negatively affect the structural integrity of the side walls. Any help or suggests would be greatly appreciated.

[flybouy]

The issue would be that the wall was not framed out for a window. The filon walls are constructed by starting out first with a frame that includes framing in windows,doors , and other openings such as the water heater, fridge, furnace, and hatch openings.

Unlike a house, it's near impossible to "retrofit" the walls with any frame work to support a window.

[chuckster57]

Marshall has pretty much hit the nail on the head.

[Scanner]

So what I am hearing is that to do this properly without negatively affecting the structural integrity of the walls would be to actually remove and replace the walls with the proper framing incorporated into the walls to support a window.

[flybouy]

Correct. The walls are constructed with a frame, then one side is installed, flipped over, rigid insulation installed and the second wall. Then it's sealed under pressure. There's no way to practically take it apart without tearing it up and destroying it. Replacing the end walls (I presume) would also be a huge task as it would require removing the slide, completely disassembly and then reassembly.

Seems like a lot of work and expense just to get a window. That expense would never be recouped when you sell the unit.

[Scanner]

Thanks for the feedback/information. You have validated my concerns.

[Carrottop]

On a separate note. I have the same unit as you and one mod I did just recently made a huge difference for us. We have our daughters come with us camping sometimes and with that layout the couch when folded into a bed butts right up to the counter forcing us to climb over her to use the washroom. I did the measurements and reversed the couch and dinette allowing us to walk to the washroom when the couch is in the bed position. Very easy to do and took us about 1 hour to complete including flipping the trim as it is cut around the dinette. I have attached pics for your reference.

[Scanner]

That looks interesting...I would be very interested in hearing how it was performed; what to look out for...

[Carrottop]

I removed the sofa first and placed it against the fridge and cupboards to get it out of the way. If you open it half way there is one screw on each side holding it to the floor. Next I measured the distance of the table mounts in there current position from the sides and back to ensure I got them back in the same spot. I removed all the cushions and wood covers and placed them in the bedroom. I removed the trim in the corners by the couch and placed them in the bedroom. I started removing the screws from the bench that is floating or in the middle now and is going to be placed in the corner by the bedroom. Be aware there is one hidden screw behind the backing panel screwed into the outside wall. you must remove the backing panel that is held in by staples to get to it. Once it was free I slid it over and screwed it back in. repeat for the center section and the other side. I screwed it all back together and slid the sofa back into its new spot and screwed it in. Total time 1 hour and 3 beers.