Surco Products 501L - User Manual

Universal MotorHome Ladder
501L
1) Insert the Top of the ladder into the Middle section of the ladder. Use the 10-24 x 1 1½” screw to secure it.
2) Check if the RV has a straight or curved roof. If the roof is straight skip to step 7, if it is curved continue to step 3.
3) Hang the ladder on the roof of the RV. Align the ladder so it is parallel to the side of the R
V.
4) The outside tube of the ladder should be elevated. Measure the space between the outside tube and roof of the
RV.
5) Use this measurement and cut off that amount off the bottom of the inside tube. Use a 3/16” drill bit and drill a
hole through the bottom of the newly cut tube.
6) Use the 10-24 x 1 ½” screws to attach the mounting brackets to the top of the ladder.
7A) For Straight RV’s: with the top of the ladder hanging parallel to the side of the RV, line up the bottom of the ladder
with the top. The bottom step should be 6” to 12” above the bumper. Mark the top and bottom sections trying to
keep the hinge piece as center as possible.
8) Cut the tubes of the ladder and install the hinge bracket connecting the top and bottom sections of the ladder,
using the 10-24 x 1½” screws.
9) Secure the Top and Bottom of the ladder with the # 10 Sheet Metal screws.
10) Take the 4 support brackets find the spots that are flat and have enough backing to install them. Mark the 4
points.
11) Drill ¼” holes thru the ladder at the marked points and install the support brackets.
12) Secure the support bracket with the # 10 sheet metal screws.

Summary

Universal MotorHome Ladder Installation

Roof Mounting Preparation and Assembly

Assemble ladder sections, check roof type, measure space, cut tubes, and drill holes for mounting.

Securing Ladder to Straight RV Roofs

Align ladder parallel to RV side, mark positions, attach mounting brackets, and secure ladder sections to the roof.

Securing Ladder to Curved RV Roofs

For RVs with a rear bend, locate the bend point, mark the ladder, and prepare for bracket installation.

Bumper Mounting Procedure

Foot Attachment and Bumper Securing

Cut bottom ladder bend, attach foot, drill holes, and secure foot to the RV bumper.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
   1. Adaptability to Roof Types
   2. Adaptability to Rear Configurations
   3. Modular Design
   4. Support and Stability
   5. Bumper Mounting Option
4. Maintenance Features

The document describes the SURCO PRODUCTS, INC. Universal MotorHome Ladder, model 501L, a ladder designed for recreational vehicles (RVs). This ladder is intended to provide access to the roof of an RV, and its universal design allows for adaptation to both straight and curved RV roofs, as well as different rear configurations, including those with a bend.

Function Description

The primary function of the SURCO 501L ladder is to facilitate safe and convenient access to the roof of a motorhome. This is crucial for maintenance, cleaning, or accessing roof-mounted equipment. The ladder is designed to be securely mounted to the RV's roof and rear, ensuring stability during use. Its modular construction, involving top, middle, and bottom sections, allows for customization to fit various RV dimensions and roof profiles.

Important Technical Specifications

The installation instructions specify several technical details regarding the fasteners and tools required:

• Screws: 10-24 x 1 1½" screws are used for securing the ladder sections together and attaching mounting brackets. #10 Sheet Metal screws are used for securing the top and bottom of the ladder to the RV and for attaching support brackets.
• Drill Bits: A 3/16" drill bit is specified for drilling a hole through the bottom of the newly cut inside tube (for curved roofs) and for securing the foot for bumper mounting. A 1¼" drill bit is required for drilling holes through the ladder at marked points for installing support brackets.
• Materials: The ladder appears to be constructed from tubes, likely metal, given the cutting and drilling instructions. The support brackets and hinge brackets are also integral components.

Usage Features

The SURCO 501L ladder offers several usage features that make it adaptable and user-friendly:

Adaptability to Roof Types:

• Straight Roofs: For RVs with straight roofs, the installation is more straightforward. The ladder is aligned parallel to the side of the RV, and the bottom step is positioned 6" to 12" above the bumper.
• Curved Roofs: For RVs with curved roofs, a specific adaptation process is required. This involves hanging the ladder, aligning it parallel to the RV side, measuring the space between the outside tube and the roof, cutting the inside tube to match this measurement, and then re-assembling brackets onto the tubes to mount onto the roof surface. This ensures the ladder conforms to the roof's curvature.

Adaptability to Rear Configurations:

• Straight Rear: The standard installation involves aligning the ladder and marking the top and bottom sections, aiming to keep the hinge piece centered.
• Bend in the Rear: For RVs with a bend in the rear, the ladder is pushed flush against the back of the RV. The bend point on the ladder is marked, and the tubes are cut accordingly. Support brackets are installed at this marked point.

Modular Design:

• The ladder consists of multiple sections (Top, Middle, Bottom) that are assembled using screws. This modularity allows for easier installation and adjustment to different RV heights.
• A hinge bracket connects the top and bottom sections, suggesting the ladder might be foldable or adjustable in length.

Support and Stability:

• The ladder is secured at multiple points: the top to the roof, the bottom to the RV's rear (or bumper), and via support brackets.
• Multiple support brackets (4 in total) are installed at flat spots with sufficient backing on the RV, ensuring robust attachment and stability. These brackets are secured with #10 sheet metal screws.

Bumper Mounting Option:

• For RVs where bumper mounting is desired, the bottom bend of the ladder can be cut off. A "Foot" component is then placed at the end of the newly cut tube and secured with a #10 Sheet Metal screw after drilling a 3/16" hole. This foot is then secured to the bumper. This provides an alternative securement method for the bottom of the ladder.

Maintenance Features

While the document does not explicitly detail maintenance features, the design implies certain aspects:

• Component Replacement: The modular nature and use of standard fasteners (screws) suggest that individual sections or components (like brackets or hinge pieces) could potentially be replaced if damaged, rather than requiring the replacement of the entire ladder.
• Inspection Points: The installation process highlights critical attachment points (roof, rear, support brackets). Regular inspection of these points for tightness and integrity would be a key maintenance activity to ensure the ladder remains safe and secure.
• Material Durability: Although not specified, the use of metal tubes and sheet metal screws implies a certain level of durability suitable for outdoor RV environments. However, periodic checks for corrosion or structural fatigue would be advisable.

In summary, the SURCO 501L Universal MotorHome Ladder is a versatile and adaptable access solution for RV roofs, designed with a focus on secure mounting and customization to various RV designs. Its installation process, though detailed, ensures a stable and functional ladder for motorhome owners.

Surco Products 501L Specifications

General

Brand	Surco Products
Model	501L
Category	Ladders
Language	English