2020 Rack Mounted Shower Box Installation Guide

Upgrade your Opus OP4 off-road camper with the 2020 Rack Mounted Shower Box (RMSB) featuring the Eccotemp L5 portable water heater! This comprehensive guide provides detailed step-by-step instructions for a smooth installation, safety considerations, troubleshooting tips, and maintenance advice to ensure your shower box is reliable for your camping adventures. Based on the "Rack mount shower box inc. Eccotemp Install-1.pdf" (dated RMSBIV0920, 14 pages), this article covers the process for the OP4 model, including Section A (Mounting Eccotemp to Shower Box) and Section B (Mounting Shower Box to Roof Rack). The installation takes 30-60 minutes with basic tools and is suitable for DIY enthusiasts. Always read the full instructions before starting, and if you're an existing Eccotemp owner, skip to the mounting steps. Let’s get your outdoor shower set up!

Before You Begin

Safety Checks: Work in a well-lit, flat area with the camper parked on level ground. Wear safety gloves and glasses to protect against sharp edges or hardware. Disconnect any propane or water sources before beginning to avoid leaks.
Tools Needed: Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), wrench set (for hex nuts), hex key (for bolts), and lubricant (e.g., silicone spray for fittings). A helper is recommended for lifting the shower box.
Parts Supplied with the Kit:
- 1 x Shower box (durable, waterproof enclosure).
- 2 x Back plates (for mounting support).
- Hardware Kit A (bolts, rubber washers, steel washers, hex nuts for Eccotemp mounting).
- Hardware Kit B (M5 washers and M5 x 0.8” hex nuts for roof rack installation).
- Water line (for connecting to the Eccotemp inlet).
- Gas line (for propane connection).
Preparation: If you already own the Eccotemp L5, verify it’s compatible (standard model). Clean all surfaces and check for defects. The RMSB is designed for the OP4’s roof rack—ensure your rack is undamaged and rated for the box’s weight (approximately 20 lbs empty).
Warnings: Do not install while the camper is moving or on uneven ground. Ensure all connections are leak-proof to avoid gas or water hazards. This is a standard operating procedure for the OP4 model—consult your dealer for other models.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

The process is divided into two sections as per the manual: Section A for mounting the Eccotemp L5 to the shower box, and Section B for mounting the shower box to the roof rack. Follow in order for best results.

Section A: Mounting Eccotemp L5 to Shower Box

Step 1: Removing Back Plate and Handle of Eccotemp L5

Step 1.1: Remove the 4 hex nuts securing the back plate to the Eccotemp L5 using a wrench. Carefully lift and remove the back plate (Figure 1). This exposes the mounting holes on the unit.
Step 1.2: Unscrew the screws in the handle using a screwdriver and remove the handle and exhaust guard (Figure 2). Set these aside for reinstallation later.
Troubleshooting: If hex nuts are stuck due to rust, apply WD-40 and let sit for 5 minutes. If screws are stripped, use a screw extractor or contact Eccotemp for replacements.

Step 2: Mounting Eccotemp L5 to Box

Step 2.1: Place the Eccotemp L5 inside the shower box with the door hinges side aligned and the door opening side facing the appropriate direction. Water and propane connections should face downward for easy access (Figure 3).
Step 2.2: Use Hardware Kit A to mount the Eccotemp—insert the 4 bolts through the pre-drilled holes in the Eccotemp L5 (Figure 5).
Step 2.3: Insert the bolts through the corresponding pre-drilled holes in the shower box (Figure 6), ensuring the Eccotemp sits flush.
Step 2.4: From the outside, add the rest of Hardware Kit A: rubber washers for vibration damping, steel washers for support, and hex nuts. Tighten with a wrench until secure but not over-tightened to avoid cracking the box (Figure 7).
Troubleshooting: If bolts don’t align, check for debris in the holes—clean with compressed air. If the Eccotemp doesn’t sit level, verify the box is on a flat surface.

Step 3: Connecting Water and Gas Connections

Step 3.1: Connect the shower head, water inlet hose, and propane connection to the labeled ports on the Eccotemp L5. Use the supplied water line for the inlet and gas line for propane (Figures 8-9). Tighten fittings hand-tight plus a quarter-turn with a wrench.
Troubleshooting: If connections leak, use Teflon tape on threads. Test with soapy water (bubbles indicate leaks)—tighten or replace fittings.

Step 4: Installing the Exhaust Guard

Slide the exhaust guard (removed in Step 1.2) into the gap between the top of the shower box and the Eccotemp L5 top (Figure 10). Ensure it fits snugly to direct exhaust safely.
Troubleshooting: If the guard doesn’t slide easily, check for misalignment—gently tap with a rubber mallet if needed.

Section A Completion

Coil the pipes (water and gas hoses) neatly and place them beside the Eccotemp L5 inside the box (Figure 11). Close the shower box door and latch it securely.
Tip: Label hoses for quick reconnection during camping.

Section B: Mounting Shower Box to Roof Rack

Step 1: Place the shower box on the roof rack, aligning the door opening side (not the hinges side) with the rear folding arm of the cargo rack. Ensure the bottom side sits flush at the driver-side edge plate (Figures 1-2 in Section B).
Step 2: Install the shower box using Hardware Kit B.
- Step 2.1: Insert one back plate into the two bolts on each side (side 1 and side 2) using the two center holes.
- Step 2.2: Insert 1 x M5 washer onto each bolt after the back plate.
- Step 2.3: Insert M5 x 0.8” hex nuts onto each bolt and tighten until the box is secure and doesn’t move.
Section B Summary: The final assembly should look like the exploded view in the manual, with the shower box firmly mounted to the roof rack.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Bolts or Nuts Stuck During Mounting?
- Cause: Rust, misalignment, or over-tightening.
- Fix: Apply lubricant like WD-40, use a wrench for leverage, and realign the holes. If stripped, replace from Hardware Kit A/B.
- Prevention: Lubricate threads before assembly and avoid over-tightening.
Leaking Water or Gas Connections?
- Cause: Loose fittings or damaged O-rings.
- Fix: Tighten fittings hand-tight plus a quarter-turn, replace O-rings if worn. Test with soapy water for bubbles—retighten if leaks appear.
- Prevention: Use Teflon tape on threads and inspect quarterly.
Shower Box Not Aligning on Roof Rack?
- Cause: Uneven rack or incorrect placement.
- Fix: Verify the door opening side aligns with the rear folding arm (Figure 1 in Section B). Adjust the back plates for a snug fit.
- Prevention: Measure the rack before installation to ensure compatibility.
Exhaust Guard Won't Slide In?
- Cause: Misalignment or debris in the gap.
- Fix: Clean the gap between the box top and Eccotemp top with a cloth, then gently slide the guard in while lifting the Eccotemp slightly.
- Prevention: Install in a clean area and check for proper fit before tightening bolts.
Hardware Missing or Damaged?
- Cause: Kit incompleteness or shipping damage.
- Fix: Cross-reference with the parts list (Shower box, 2 x Back plate, Hardware Kits A/B, water/gas lines). Contact Opus for replacements if missing.
- Prevention: Inventory the kit upon receipt.

Maintenance and Care

Regular Cleaning: Wipe the shower box and Eccotemp exterior with a damp cloth after each use to remove soap residue or dirt. Clean the exhaust guard quarterly to prevent blockages.
Seasonal Checks: Inspect fittings and hoses for cracks every 3 months, especially after rough terrain. Replace gas line if frayed.
Storage: Drain the Eccotemp water lines before storing to prevent freezing. Cover the box with a breathable tarp to protect from UV damage.
Annual Service: Have a professional check the Eccotemp burner and regulator for leaks—test with soapy water annually.

Safety Tips and Warnings

General Safety: Wear gloves and safety glasses during installation to protect against sharp edges. Work on level ground to prevent the camper from tipping.
Gas and Water Hazards: Test all connections with soapy water before use (bubbles indicate leaks)—do not use open flames to test. Ensure the propane cylinder is off during installation.
Warranty Note: Improper installation (e.g., stripping bolts) may void warranty—follow steps carefully and use provided hardware.
Environmental Considerations: Install in a dry, ventilated area to avoid moisture in the box. Dispose of old parts responsibly.

Additional Resources

Manual References: See Pages 18-19 for gas connections and Pages 27-30 for water system integration.
Support: If you encounter difficulties, contact your dealer or Opus Camper USA at 925.215.7315 or info@opuscamper.us for parts or advice.

Install your shower box with confidence in your OP4! This upgrade adds convenience to your off-road trips—happy camping!