window glass replacement

[who_dun_it]

I have a rear window that the "stationary" glass is broken. The sliding portion is okay. I am looking for suggestions for replacing the glass without removing the complete frame. Maybe plexiglass?

Thanks,
Les

 

[Don Jaksa]

I hear it is easier to change the glass on 1975 and later windows with rubber trim
I think there are videos on utube that detail the process

Plexiglass will FLEX before shattering like glass

ON MY 1973:

I replaced the sliding window in the back. The previous owner used plexiglass and it worked somewhat. The required curve was an issue.

On the '73, I was told that you have to completely dismantle the inside trim down to the aluminum frame and that it usually destroys the trim pieces in the process

What I did was have a glass company SHAVE the glass on top and bottom 1/16 inch for a total 1/8" off

Then I was able to JUST BARELY flex the glass into position WITHOUT removing anything
It works perfect and it even slides easier with the modern rubber insert

This is the sliding part so the fixed part probably requires a full dismantle

Good Luck:
Keep us informed and let us know what you had to do.

 

[ttiger]

I have a rear window that the "stationary" glass is broken. The sliding portion is okay. I am looking for suggestions for replacing the glass without removing the complete frame. Maybe plexiglass?

Thanks,
Les

On 1975 and later coaches the fixed glass is glued in like an automotive windshield

 

[Richard RV]

On 1975 and later coaches the fixed glass is glued in like an automotive windshield

Car windshields are entirely held in place by urethane adhesive (a 'glue' that cures and sets up) - there is no other means of attachment.

The GMC fixed glass bedded in butyl (it's not glue and it doesn't harden). The exterior rubber gasketing provides the first line of defense against water/wind intrusion, and also applies pressure against the glass keeping it tight to the butyl.

A glue has to be cut to remove the glass, while the butyl stays soft(ish) and pliable allowing the glass to be loosened and removed with steady pressure. Much easier in warmer weather.

 

[who_dun_it]

Thank you all for the input. I will update this thread when I get working on it. This is kind of low on the priority list, so it will not be immediately.
Les

 

[LQQKatJon]

plexiglass is a poor choice. It scratches so quickly and easily. It will look like crap in a years time.

There are enough parts coachs. And sirum sells windows and glass to not need to reinvent much.

 

[who_dun_it]

plexiglass is a poor choice. It scratches so quickly and easily. It will look like crap in a years time.

There are enough parts coachs. And sirum sells windows and glass to not need to reinvent much.

Thank you for the input. Les

 

[Richard RV]

plexiglass is a poor choice. It scratches so quickly and easily. It will look like crap in a years time.

There are enough parts coachs. And sirum sells windows and glass to not need to reinvent much.

They do make scratch resistant polycarbonate, but your point is valid. For a temporary* replacement it's an excellent choice.

* Temporary is an arbitrary designation in the GMC world! I rattle can painted everything above the belt line on the Birchaven - a temporary cosmetic improvement that I considered a "rolling primer paint job" to hold me over until I painted the coach the right way. That was in 2017 and it's still looking pretty good.

 

[Bhart]

Jim Bounds has a video on painting and resealing the side windows. Maybe on You Tube or his Patron channel.