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Topic: How To Fold Mirrors (Read 516 times) previous topic - next topic

How To Fold Mirrors

I understand from reading previous posts that our Ramco mirrors can be folded in to reduce the width of the coach for narrow passages through gates.  Without the coach here, however, I'm wondering if someone could post a picture of the screw or bolt that holds them mirrors in position.  I read that a 3/4 socket is needed so I assume a large nut ....on the bottom?  Is it recessed or would an open end wrench work.  Also, how important is torque in re-tightening.

Thanks

Re: How To Fold Mirrors

Reply #1 –
Hey Randy, there is a 1/2 bolt 3/4 socket head in the arm that needs to be loosened. However I would bet it is frozen,  you risk the chance of eather breaking the bolt or stripping the threads. Stainless bolt in cast aluminum not a real good combination.

Re: How To Fold Mirrors

Reply #2 –
The Ramco mirrors (assuming that's what you have) can be adjusted in and out, or folded to clear a tight pass through.  BUT, it's probably not something you would want to do on a routine basis.  When you tighten down on the recessed 3/4" (head) mounting bolt, it locks the mirror stem down into a snug socket.  Once seated, it can be a bear to get loose.  Perhaps if you did move it routinely, it would be easier, but if it hasn't been moved in several years (like ours), then Good Luck.

By the way, standard depth socket would work fine.

PS: The foam piece stuffed in the hole in the mirror arm is to keep the dad-gummed mud daubers out.

Re: How To Fold Mirrors

Reply #3 –
I use to fold mine back every winter before putting the coach in the garage.  By doing so I created a short or pinched the wire to the turn signal on the mirror.  I moved the wires by using the access hole and got it working again.  I have not moved the mirrors since that episode, as could be a difficult fix. 

Jason

Re: How To Fold Mirrors

Reply #4 –
I have to fold mine forward to put the coach forward enough to be completely under the canopy I have. No issues yet. I didn't think mine were on a tapered shaft. I will look when I back it out next week for vacation.

Re: How To Fold Mirrors

Reply #5 –
Quote from: craneman –
I didn't think mine were on a tapered shaft.
You may be correct - I've never removed mine to see what the "post & socket" actually looks like.  I just know it gets stuck in there REALLY tight, however it works.  A member who has recently taken them apart may shed some light on the tightening method.

I edited my prior post.
 

Re: How To Fold Mirrors

Reply #6 –
Mine (2001) look like Chuck and Jeanie's.  A 3/4" socket fits.  It does not need to be a a deep socket.  I have a 3/8" drive socket set that works fine.  Ours were loose when we picked it up and it needed snugging up for the trip home.

Our PO took the long arm off the pass side and replaced it with a short arm to get it into his garage.  It is still on there.  He gave us the long arm as a lovely parting gift.

Roger