Replacing front plexi

[morgynm]

One of the major (maybe not so major) things I want to do before the fall is replace the front plexi window.


There's no rock guard on it so it has deep scratches in it. And the sealing around the edges looks funky. Especially on the inside (see the upper corner of the window?) where is looks like it's been painted over and has gone mushy.



I watched Kevin Jordan's videos in YouTube last night on window replacement but his old window seal looks better than mine so I'm worried about what I'll be getting myself into once I start.

Any suggestions on how to proceed or any other advice for a beginner?


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[Ian G.]

A couple of tips. Install new molding or seal, over time the rubber hardens and shrinks and will loose it's ability to seal. One note, in Kevin's video he installs the molding backwards, the way the molding is designed the locking strip has to be on the outside to get a reliable seal, also you always install the window from the locking side as the molding "opens" to give the clearance required to insert the window into the window channel.

Do not cut the new molding before you install it, install the molding around the opening making sure it is fully seated (use a rubber hammer to tap it all around to help it seat especially around the corners. The join should be at the bottom, cut the molding at least 3/4" long, (the ends overlap), Place the 2 ends together using bicycle tire patch glue on the ends, and force the extra molding around the window. This will make sure the seal remains tight even as th erubber shrinks over time.

[morgynm]

Just so I'm clear on this... since the lock seal is on the outside, then I'm installing the window from the outside?

Also, I'm assuming I'm going to need to take the window out as a template to get a piece of plexi cut? He says 4mm but is there a certain kind that I should be asking for?


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[Ian G.]

Originally Posted by morgynm

Just so I'm clear on this... since the lock seal is on the outside, then I'm installing the window from the outside?

Also, I'm assuming I'm going to need to take the window out as a template to get a piece of plexi cut? He says 4mm but is there a certain kind that I should be asking for?

Yes that is correct, locking seal is on the outside and the window is installed from the outside. and also yes the old window makes an excellent template. window thickness is 3/16" or 4.5 mm. Don't go any thicker because it is too stiff to bend and conform to the compound curves. Acrylic is the standard replacement and works very well. I used coated polycarbonate for mine, it is a tougher product but considerably more expensive.

As a bonus tip, when cleaning your new windows NEVER USE GLASS CLEANER, use lots of water with a little dish soap and a microfiber cloth. when they are clean use lemon pledge to keep them clean and protected. This is a ticked used in the aviation industry for years.

[BAMA & Pachyderm Posse]

where can one get new molding ? thanks

[Ian G.]

Originally Posted by BAMA & Pachyderm Posse

where can one get new molding ? thanks

There are 2 types of molding, 2 piece and one piece, This molding is called "one piece locking window gasket", a main supplier is TrimLoc. You will need a profile that fits 1/8" edge and 3/16"-1/4" glass.
Here is an example LK987 - One-Piece Locking Gaskets - Trim-Lok

[BAMA & Pachyderm Posse]

Originally Posted by Ian G.

There are 2 types of molding, 2 pieceand on piece, This molding is called "one piece locking window gasket", a main supplier is TrimLoc. You will need a profile that fits 1/8" edge and 3/16"-1/4" glass.
Here is an example LK987 - One-Piece Locking Gaskets - Trim-Lok

thanks

[Roy in TO]

Scamp trailers sells it by the foot as well.

[morgynm]

Here's an odd question... Is it expensive to order to Canada from Scamp?


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[Roy in TO]

It can be expensive. Try asking them to mail it. Your costs will be much lower. A local auto glass place might be cheaper.

[Nelmes]

I put windows in both my trailers recently. One with the 2 piece and the other with the one piece. The one piece is the only way to go.