Roof Access ? ('83 Newell)

[PhrankinPhoenix]

I have a question about Roof Access on a '83 Newell Motorcoach.

The attachment is a Newell for sale here in Phoenix right now....

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/rvs/5938014297.html

[attachment=2013]

In one of the photos (Port/DriverSide) showing the area near the rear wheel,
there are four fold-down (hand/foot) pegs above the rear wheel that allow for human access to the roof deck.
It's a "zig-zag" pattern (like rock climbing) starting with the rear wheel.
I've never seen these on anything except '80's vintage Newell's (either rear side).

I was just wondering:
How successful (or UN-successful) this ladder system is?

Has anyone talked to a Newell owner and gotten any feedback, or tried out this system?

Is it easy to climb up and access the roof?

If these were on a Wanderlodge it would give credence to the use of the term "Goat Rails"!

[ernie ekberg]

These are also located under the awning of early birds to help move the awnings out

[Arcticdude]

Tough to carry something up there with those small hand holds. So that means a bucket left on the ground that you pull up with a rope.

Having the ladder on the back, although visually more obtrusive, is more user friendly.

You (or somebody) WILL be on the roof routinely if you're doing regular maintenance and inspections.

[PhrankinPhoenix]

I AGREE 100%, John.
I was thinking along the same lines as you.

I saw this system and thought it really looks like a "good looking design" ....
BUT...
What about... security/safety getting up/down?
What about... transporting cargo up/down?
What about... a large secure hand-hold or foot-hold just as you crest the top?
What about... when the surfaces are wet or slippery?
....etc., etc., etc...

You know, one of the BIG selling points (for me) on the Wanderlodge is the roof decking and cargo rails (i.e. goat rails) for just this reason.
When I get up/reach the top there is a sense of safety knowing that the roof walk deck and roof edge cargo rail system is/are there if I need them.
I have a bit of "a fear of heights" but that is held at bay knowing those features are securely in place.

As "bulky" & "utilitarian" as a typical ladder looks
it still is a successful system to securely/safely get up & down so you can ENJOY your travels without an accident.

[jcus]

Have a 95 newell with same setup. Could have probably used it fine in my 30's but not now. Most Newells have a opening skylight somewhere near the bathroom. I keep a short stepladder in my bathroom closet and use it to climb out the skylight for roof work. [my ota antenna makes noise so I bunge it down when travelling.]

[JD33]

Nice old coach!!

[al perna]

Guys , climbing a ladder with one hand is not easy . Being a xxx roofer , it is not what we want to be doing when we are needing tools, or parts up on the roof . So , I see nothing wrong with how Newell choose to provide access to the roof .