Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

I am about to make my galley hatch and install it with a hurricane hinge. Can you guys please post photos of how you have the hinge terminating at the side wall and edge trim, and then the hatch edge and trim. Thanks in advance, Bryan

Heres a Post I made earlier. There are many ways to do this but in the end....The one that doesn't Leak, is the Best.

I've always had a different approach to building a hatch. Instead of building heavy to prevent "Spring Back", Use materials that Don't "Spring Back"

I use FRP and Aluminum.

I build 2 outside rails, 1" thick (by using 2 pieces of 1/2") And cross spars. Then I cover the outside with FRP, good side in extending 1 1/2 past the rails on both sides.

FRP does not "Spring Back" and is strong enough when bowed around the hatch to not flex...as well as being stable enough to Triangulate the hatch.

I also install a second sheet of FRP on the inside, good side in as a finish.

2 sheets is more than enough, then sheath the outside with Aluminum.

I seal the outside edges with this;






I know, I know. But doesn't water get into the sides?

No! I build the sides in 3" at the hatch, and run the outside corner molding straight through. This is a very common area for leaks. The FRP/Aluminum extends 1 1/2" past the galley opening and I put a second outside insert molding on the inside of the galley.

This insert molding is 3/8" tall with a vinyl insert that acts as the hatch's seal. Plus I extend the offset Hurricane hinge past the galley opening.

For the water to get in it has to run down, make a right or left hand turn, run up hill and jump over a 3/8" tall molding that is under the FRP/Aluminum.

In addition the 2 outside corner insert moldings create a good Trough for the water to run down there by directing the water out and off the trailer.







Plus I extend the offset Hurricane hinge past the galley opening.


These shots are from 3 different trailers of mine, but the theory is still the same.

Happy Trails

Len

Thank you Len for being so kind to post your photos. Anyone else want to share some pics? Bryan

Still looking for photos of hurricane hinge installation. Particularly where it terminates at the side wall trim. Thanks

Mines not complete yet but ive followed the general consensus of how its done and will post some pics for you shortly

This is the hatch side of the hinge detail.



Ill go get some of the body detail.
My hatch isnt currently fitted

This is the body side of the hinge.
Hope this is of sme help.

Very helpful. Thank you!

No probs,your welcome

Here is how I did it but mine was on a flat hatch on a weekender style TD.
I installed standard edge trim after the first two pics that simply butted up to the hinge pieces and caulked the joints. I also caulked the openings on the ends of the hinge and trim.

Thanks again. I have a feeling these photos are going to be very helpful to many builders.