Mod Description:

Oddly, some RVs don’t come from the factory with a roof access ladder. Although some RV roof tops are not made to walk on frequently, having a roof ladder is a must if you want to be able to inspect and clean your RV roof. You could use a regular a-frame ladder but then you must carry it along with all of your other stuff. Some don’t mind that but for those that do, installing a roof ladder is the mod to do.

Mod Difficulty:

Types of Roof Ladders

Extended Roof Ladder

First, start by contacting your RV manufacturer to find out exactly where you can anchor the ladder. From the factory, the ladder is screwed to the wooden or aluminum supports that are part of the RVs frame. The manufacturer should be able to provide you with the support or frame locations.

Once you have the anchor locations, mounting the ladder is quite easy. Place the ladder in the location where you want it and mark the holes. Now drill 3/32″ pilot holes, ensuring you are drilling in to something substantial, like a frame member. Don’t drill too far though. An inch is all you need for depth.

Next, coat the underside of the mounting tabs with rubberized silicone or exterior caulking. You can use a lot and wipe the excess off after mounting. This will ensure some sealant will make its way in to the screw holes. Attach ladder with a few #8 screws to ensure everything lines up correctly. Screw in the remaining screws and wipe off excess sealant.

Finally, try out the ladder. Be careful the first time making sure all attachment points are secure under load. You could try hanging on the ladder first to see if it holds. Otherwise, it’s just going to be a trust thing. Now you can inspect your roof and see what other mods need to be done.

ModMyRV recommends these parts for this mod:
Universal Straight RV Ladder
Universal Hinged RV Ladder, up to 100” Bright Dip - Topline

2 Comments For This Mod

1. Bob Vaughn (March 4th, 2009 at 5:59 pm)

   My TT has a ladder already installed on the back….It is great for putting a bicycle rack on and we carry our blue portable dump tote on…we used to carry our bikes on a rack that hung on the ladder but after we installed the bike rack on the bed of our pickup I started carrying my tote on it…(empty of course)….
2. jmt (March 5th, 2009 at 1:17 am)

   I rarely see new TT with ladders. I’ve been on the hunt for one of those telescoping ladders. Small, compact, can be used at home too.

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