The front window in my 1952 Cruisette was removed to make way for a small air conditioner unit. I've since removed the air conditioner and am thinking about installing a jalousie/louver window since I doubt I'll be able to find an original replacement window for this relatively rare Airstream model.
I'm thinking that a jalousie window would lend a certain ambiance and suggest a better aesthetic. Plus, in the likelihood that one of the glass panes was chipped or broken (I don't like the look of rockguards), it would probably be easier to fix individual panes since they slide out of the side clips of the jalousie frame.
However, other folks here have suggested a jalousie window up front would be really prone to leaking, especially when on the road. I know there are clear vinyl strips that are used to create a seal between the panes, but I've never seen them in person. Any good or bad experiences here?
Here follows some of the front jalousie windows that I've been able to track down on the internets. If you happen to own one of these beauties, please let me know if you have problems with water leaks due to a front jalousie.
http://www.vintageairstreamer.com/19...udAsFound.html
Byam's '55 Flying Cloud: Jealousy of Jalousie windows
1958 Overlander with a retrofit front jalousie. I just posted on Mike's blog to see if his leaks. I hope I get a reply!
Mello Mike's Airstreams - 1958 Overlander and 1972 Sovereign: Jalousie Window Restoration
Andy Rogozinski from Inland RV thinks...frontjalousienotsuchagoodidea.
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f454...ion-64573.html
Frank Yensan suggests two cranks per window to keep the window tight against the seal when closed, but this appears to be for a more typical side jalousie. The idea of two window cranks (one for each side of the window; right and left) makes sense, and could potentially be a good fix if I install a jalousie in the front. He looks like he's having a good time!
Frank's Trailer Works Blog: Rode Hard and Put Up Wet, Over and Over Again.
I'd appreciate any feedback. Thanks all! Oh, and since this is my first post, here's a photo of my little "Wander" with her awning up.