The Escape Hatch




Short version:

Until May of 1968 the rear was sloped. The rear door opened to a trunk

I cut that away, added a vertical wall and rehung the window and gate

I bought a handcarved eagle in Baja Mexico and attached it firmly to the top

The eagle got ripped off, literally. Over 2 or so decades, all below it deteriorated.

The trunk was not open to the trailer. (That was a nicely varnished shelf back there)

We needed space so along with closets, a bed box, etc, I removed the trunk (in 2001)

Removing that stuff allowed for a thorough cleaning, scraping, sanding, etc.

... and for some structural repairs ...

Added a pair of slide bolts so could unlock if one needs to kick the gate open

A thick bead of clear silicone sealant fills the gap all the way around

This is as far as I've gotten. When I return I plan to add a new interior wall around the gate and window, with insulation. An inner door, easily opened, will cover this one.

This awning-type door is to serve only as an escape hatch in case of fire or such.

One will need to lift the 2 slide (barrel) bolts, turn them to lock them open, and then give the door a good swift kick at the bottom to break the grip of the silicone.