Cutting off outdoor flaps on older camper

[Toddhom]

I have an Eagle from the early 2000’s. It has the flaps on the outside. They now longer stay up because the velcro is worn out. Borrowing some ideas, using pvc pipe, I made them into awnings but I have grown tired of that solution so I replaced the velcro and they stay up now. One problem though. When the top is popped I cannot reach the flaps when they are rolled up. It would require a ladder. I used to use a ladder to get in and out of my camper but I didn’t like that because it took I up to much floor space when stored. I now have a hitch step which works great. I am considering cutting off the flaps but I hesitate to do so because I’m afraid my windows will leak. I also feel the extra layer of material provides some insulation. Has anyone cut off their flaps? New campers don’t have them. Thoughts?, ideas?

 

[craig333]

I use my shovel to lower the flaps. Hook the top and pull it down. Are they necessary for most rain events? No but I have been in thunderstorms where they were definitely necessary.

 

[Toddhom]

Craig. That’s a good idea, but how do you roll them up?

 

[craig333]

I have a little folding stool or I'll stand on an ice chest etc. I normally leave them rolled up so I don't have to do it often.

 

[ckent323]

I recommend against cutting off the flaps. You may need them to keep rain out.

 

[Tom n N]

As far as I’m concerned those outside flaps are the best thing about my older Eagle, and the reason I would buy an ATC over a FWC if I had to buy a new one (ATC still uses the flaps).

I spend a lot of my time in the desert so being able to make the flaps into awnings results in significantly lower inside temperatures. The awnings also let you get some ventilation during rain storms, not to mention providing a little privacy on the rare occasions I’m stuck in a “real” campground or camping on the side of a road and still want some air circulation.

Rolling them up is a non issue as I never do. I have never been in a situation where I didn’t want the awnings, and I can easily deploy them on my truck without a ladder.

Just my personal opinion after 20 years of good times in this camper

Tom

 

[Toddhom]

Thanks for all the advice. Since I’ve replaced the Velcro that holds up the window flaps I’ve decided to roll up the rear window flaps and just leave them that way flipping them down in a rain. Ill keep the front awnings where I sleep. Best of both worlds.