Need Hex Key size.

[Gotago2]

Just got new to us 2011 Winnebago Itasca Sunstar. and I would like to take off the dog house cover (engine cover) for inspection. However, all the manual states is to use the supplied hex key. Yep- no hex key came from last owner. Does anyone know what size hex key I need? I found the hole on the back face but I can't see what size I need. Thanks for any help I can get on this.

I even checked the parts list for this vehicle from the Winnebago site. All it says is "one hex key". No size.

[RobRV]

You can get a Set of Hex Keys in Various sizes for a few Dollars. Or take a Bar of soap and press it into the Hole take that with You when You go to the Store !

[Gotago2]

Thanks Rob. But the hole is in the fiberglass cover and I can see to the other side to be able to make sure I hit the hole the key fits in. Plus there is carpeting aroun the hole that keeps wanting to got in and I would rather not cut a larger whole in the carpet. Knowing the proper size key would make it much easier.

[tbomn]

Originally Posted by Gotago2

Thanks Rob. But the hole is in the fiberglass cover and I can see to the other side to be able to make sure I hit the hole the key fits in. Plus there is carpeting aroun the hole that keeps wanting to got in and I would rather not cut a larger whole in the carpet. Knowing the proper size key would make it much easier.

Call Winnebago and ask for a service tech, they can tell you... (800)-537-1885

[Mr_D]

I have a selection of both metric and SAE sizes on rings. I just keep trying till I find the correct one. The sets cost around $10 for both of them.

[Walter5555]

I agree with Rob go buy a set of Hex Keys you may fine that their are more then a couple of screw in your rig that are Hex.

[Wizard]

Mine was 5/16" and had to use the long end to reach in, then used a pair of pliers to turn in. Only makes a half turn. Also don't forget about the two screws, usually buried in the carpet near the front bottom floor line.

[Gotago2]

Thanks all for the replies. Jerry maybe I was not going in far enough I'll give another try. The manual shows pix using short end. I do have several rings and folding packs of hex keys so I'll go try them all againg starting with 5/16.

I found the screws that also must be removed.

[Wayne M]

Norm,
There are varying lengths of HEX keys. The picture may have been one with a longer reach. Both types are available in hardware stores. The Dog House Cover probably is not the only item in the MH tat uses a HEX key, so as Mr_D stated, having a set of keys around may not be a bad idea for the next HEX you run into.

Happy trails.

[wa8yxm]

Hex keys (Also called allen wrenches) are generally sold in sets, there are two kinds one is either a case with several different keys or a ring with several differne tkeys held on with springs, the other is a "Switch blade" case.. I have both types in assorted sizes.


Generally you find they come in two sizes, Too big, and too small.

To be serious. try one, if it's too small nothing bad happens, try a larger one

If it's too big it wont' go in the hole try a smaller one.

When you find one that is just right, you will know it, mark it somehow (Dab of paint, piece of tape, engraving tool) and use it.

Oh, the easiest ones to use (once you find the right size Are the ones with teh "T" shaped handle.

[Gotago2]

Thanks to all. 5/16" is the proper size and the only one I have is a T style. I can put it in but can't turn it much because it is laying on the floor. So tomorrow its off to the store to buy an L shape 5/16" and all will be well.

[Wayne M]

Tomorrow! Improvise!

Propane blow torch. Heat the T 2 or so inches from the end and bend it in a vice or with a pair of pliers. Heat sink near the "T" handle with vice grips. Worse case is the handle melts, then you have an allen wrench.

Geesh I'm good!