Installing a roof fan like the MaxxFan Deluxe 7500K is one of the most important upgrades you can make for your camper van. Proper ventilation helps control moisture, reduces condensation, and improves comfort—especially for full-time van life. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a professional-grade installation of a MaxxFan on a Ford Transit van using the Adventure Wagon kit and an adapter ring.
Why You Need a Roof Fan in Your Camper Van
Whether you’re building out your own rig or using a conversion kit, ventilation is essential. The MaxxFan Deluxe 7500K provides:
Active ventilation with intake and exhaust
Moisture control while sleeping, cooking, or showering
Remote control functionality for easy access
Optional rain cover for all-weather use
Tools & Supplies You’ll Need
Here are the recommended products and materials used during this install:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adapter Ring | Levels the roof surface over corrugations |
| 3M Window Weld / MS 5510 Adhesive | Bonds the adapter ring to the roof |
| Rust-Oleum Paint | Prevents rust on exposed metal |
| Fine-Tooth Jigsaw Blade | For cutting the fan hole |
| Denatured Alcohol | Surface prep before adhesive |
| Scotch-Brite Pad | Light sanding before sealing |
| Flex Seal (Paintable) | Final waterproof sealant layer |
| Stainless Steel Screws + Nylock Nuts | Bolts fan securely to adapter ring |
Step-by-Step MaxxFan Installation Process
1. Plan Your Fan Location
If you’re using the Adventure Wagon kit, you’ll have a couple of roof cutout options. Typically, the fan is installed forward to leave space in the rear for a future A/C unit. Confirm your layout by dry-fitting the ceiling panel and using the MaxxFan trim ring as a template.
2. Mark and Drill the Pilot Hole
Using a small drill bit, drill a pilot hole through the marked center of the fan location. Push the bit through and leave it sticking out for alignment when you’re on the roof.
3. Clean and Prep the Roof
Before cutting, thoroughly clean the roof to remove dust and debris. This ensures your tape and adhesives will stick properly.
4. Trace and Cut the Fan Opening
Align your adapter ring using the pilot hole, trace the outline, and tape off the cutting area. Drill starter holes in each corner, then use a jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade to cut the 14″x14″ hole. Remove burrs with a flap disc, clean with denatured alcohol, and paint all bare metal edges with Rust-Oleum.
5. Install the Adapter Ring
Apply three thick beads of adhesive (inner, middle, outer) to the underside of the adapter ring. Align it over the hole and clamp it flat using padded blocks and wood spacers. Let cure overnight.
6. Attach the MaxxFan Mounting Ring
Position the MaxxFan’s top mounting ring over the adapter. Instead of using the included sheet metal screws, this install uses stainless steel screws with nylock nuts for a more secure and weatherproof finish.
Apply adhesive around each screw head and thread to prevent leaks. Then tighten the bolts carefully—do not overtighten to avoid cracking the fan’s plastic housing.
7. Final Seal with Flex Seal
Once the adhesive cures, scuff the surrounding plastic and apply paintable Flex Seal over the entire base. This gives a clean, professional appearance and an extra layer of waterproof protection.
Use painter’s tape to create clean edges, and remove the tape before the Flex Seal dries to avoid peeling.
Wiring the MaxxFan
The MaxxFan Deluxe only requires a 12V positive and negative wire for operation. You can wire it up during the fan install or later in your build. The deluxe model includes a remote control for convenience.
Final Thoughts
A clean MaxxFan installation not only keeps your van cooler and more breathable—it also adds resale value and long-term durability. While it may seem like overkill to use Flex Seal and stainless bolts, these extra steps provide long-term peace of mind, especially in extreme weather.
If you found this MaxxFan install guide helpful, feel free to share it with a friend building out their van. Got questions? Drop them in the comments, and we’ll add them to a future update or video.
