Recommended Roof Vent for Shallow Clearance Application on Sprinter Van

Question:

Hi, Ive removed the roof-top a/c from a Sprinter van. In the remaining hole I want to put in a vent or two. Hole left behind is 14x32, so I considered a Ventline 14x14 w/out fan and a Maxxair 4500K next to each other. Trouble is I have a roof rack too, and the crossbars really the planned decking up there could interfere with a vents ability to open. So Im also considering a couple of these VP-543SP instead, since they are only 3-1/4inch high opened. If the entire roof rack had decking, clearance between roof and rack is about 4-1/2. I could leave out decking where the vents would need to open, Im still weighing what to do. Any other thoughts or advice on low-clearance fans for me? I have 2 tilt-open windows in this van. Im wondering if 100cfm from one of these, or 200cfm from a pair could make a really good breeze inside. Thanks!

asked by: Matt

Expert Reply:

The Ventline Vanair Trailer Roof Vent w/ 12V Fan - 6-1/4" Diameter - Smoke # VP-543SP will allow you to move air at 100 cubic feet per minute. For the low profile ability, these are really your best bet. To feel the air moving, with the windows cracked you will want two instead of one.

If you go with the MaxxFan Plus Roof Vent w/ 12V Fan, Thermostat, and Remote - Powered Lift - 10 Speed - Smoke # MA00-04500K you will move much more air with a 900 cubic feet per minute fan, but you will also have a vent that extends beyond the roof 3-3/4 inches when closed and 12-1/2 inches when open. This would require the gap in your decking to accommodate, but will allow much more air flow from a single unit.

The Ventline without a fan will take much of this same space, but not help much with air flow.

expert reply by: Jason S