396XL Windshield Molding

[ttbikes]

I am looking at a 396XL and noticed a couple of small chunks missing from the windshield molding. The windshield is not leaking but I am wondering how hard it would be to find that molding if it did start leaking. Any thoughts appreciated.

[steelbird312]

Originally Posted by ttbikes

I am looking at a 396XL and noticed a couple of small chunks missing from the windshield molding. The windshield is not leaking but I am wondering how hard it would be to find that molding if it did start leaking. Any thoughts appreciated.

Good morning. Based on owning a 390XL for about 16 years, I suspect you may be seeing the gaps at the end of the seal 'key' . The key is a strip that is removed to allow windshield replacement and then reinserted into the channel from which it was removed to prevent the new windshield from falling out. Through the years I have had 4 windshields replaced, observing the process each time. A couple of those times the 'tech' would stretch that key and instead of attempting to reinsert it properly, would snip the excess. After a period of time, the key would draw back up to a normal size leaving a hole that appeared 'squarish' and about 1/2" in length. Hope this helps.

[ttbikes]

Thanks for the feed back. I will take a closer look. Also good to know you have not had any trouble replacing the windshield. Looks like you have kept yours a long time. Hope that means you like it.

[steelbird312]

Yes, matter of fact, I regrettably sold it about a month ago. It had 90,000 miles on it, had never left me stranded. Saw 46 states and 13 Canadian provinces through its windshield. I have had 3 cancers in the last 2 years, things are changing. A friend asked me to price it, I did and he now owns it. I have a 31 Classic Limited so I can still go when able.
The unit always ran perfectly with the exception of some poor fuel clogging the fuel filters. Took about 5 or 6 changes before getting it clean. Was a wonderful coach. If you do it, be meticulous with your maintenance, then sit back and enjoy!

[ttbikes]

In a way, I know how you feel. I am going to let go of my 64 Tradewind that I have spent 6 years restoring. We plan to full-time for a while and it would just be sitting in the shed. I am going to miss "Oh my God, is that a 64?" "It looks brand new" The 2006 that I have decided to buy has had meticulous documented maintence, and while I know very little about diesels and freightliner frames, learning new things is fun.

Sorry about your health. I'm sure that is a bear. The suddeness of problems showing up with our freinds is a big part of why we decided to full-time while we still can.

[steelbird312]

One of the better recommendations I can give you would be to join the FCOC- Freightliner Chassis Owners Club. Then, go to their 'school's to have a week long, information packed good time. FMCA was/is worth a lot in support and good rallies full of information and supplier introductions and seminars.
As for travel, yes do it while able. Most of our great travels were done before y0 yrs old. So glad we did- first cancer wS at 64. I'm 67 now. Hope to go many more years- maybe a slower pace. I humbly thank God for a clean checkup last month. Hoping it stays thst way.
Enjoy your motorhome and the great travel it will provide!
Jerry

[Corrales Kid]

Did you buy that 396XL? I have been a very happy owner of one and have just decided to sell it.

Regarding windshield molding, we had to have a windshield replaced and the auto glass company was able to easily source a new molding. I think it might be a generic extrusion.