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patstr3 · 10-15-2021, 08:22 PM

We bought our 2018 Ventana 4037 used, and it does not have a kitchen window. Has anyone done a mod that added one? Thanks!

MingusPirate · 10-16-2021, 02:52 AM

We started to do that with our Jayco kitchen slide. I talked to an RV tech about doing that. He said "Don't." The reason is you don't know where the studs are and could kill the slideout structure.

RVStitchy · 10-16-2021, 03:56 AM

Sounds like a good project for Nappanee if you plan on being in the area. They would have all the knowledge on the internal wall structure.

arein · 10-19-2021, 08:01 AM

Agree with previous posters, it is not a DIY project. However, the service center should easily be able to accomplish this for you. Probably won't be cheap though

richpatty · 10-19-2021, 08:23 AM

We have talked about putting one in as well, but would not have anyone else do it besides Newmar. I bet it will cost a pretty penny due to the labor. And remember to quote the nice wide ones they install now. :-)

I will be curious as to the quote. I am betting $2500.

Dav L · 10-19-2021, 08:43 AM

If someone is debating where the studs are, they shouldn't be doing this type of work. For any medium to experienced DIY'r (which the great majority are not), this is a straightforward project. Determining studs is easy, but it's really not all that important since you will be replacing them with a header to carry any load. It is convenient to know where studs are so the window ideally is placed next to a stud but it's not always that easy to have that option as the larger issue is "where should that window go?". Wiring might be in that space but can very typically be rerouted / extended.

Plumbing is harder but very uncommon for plumbing to be in a slide wall.

But if the above is new information, let someone experienced do the job. No reason to bring it to the OEM because this isn't rocket science.

In general, one maps out what is known (stud locations, possible wire interferance, possible plumbing, wanted window size and location). size the cutout to the window requirements. Tape the edges of the hole. cut the interior wall first. I would cut small hole on the interior of the window. Inspect. make any required mods to location / plan. Cut final hole on interior. Inspect again. Cut exterior hole. Cut studs. make plans for header. Splice and move wires. insulate. Put header in. Put footer in. caulk opening. Insert and screw in window. Enjoy. I would figure a day of work depending on what's inside that has to be moved.

Remember Conversion Vans? Same process. A little easier. But that would take an hour or two.

DGBPokes · 10-19-2021, 08:51 AM

I wouldn’t tackle it n a fairly new, nice rig.
FWIW… finding studs is pretty easy. Any cool morning, with a heavy dew, they are very obvious. Must mark them when you see them.
2. Don’t for get to research and determine internal wiring routes.

richpatty · 10-19-2021, 10:43 AM

Well...DW doesn't like when I want to drill a hole in the RV much less cut a gapping hole. :-)

The other complicating factor is the interior has a tile backsplash that would have to be removed/redone which makes it harder. Also cutting while reaching across the kitchen countertop would not be fun either.

I am good with tile, and basic RV work, but I would be hesitant for a job like that.

My 2 cents.

patstr3 · 10-23-2021, 02:49 PM

Thank you all for replying and commenting. Good points!! I'm working with someone at Classic Coach Works in Ormond Beach, FL. I sent photos and described what I had in mind. He thinks he can do it. I'll take the coach over to get a better idea and quote.