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Old 01-04-2011, 08:23 AM   #1
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1966 22' Safari
1964 24' Tradewind
1956 18' "Footer"
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window operator replacement options

I have to replace most window operators on my $25 1964 TradeWind. I would like some feedback on my options. The reviews on the operators from vintagetrailersupply don't look too promising. Inland RV has what looks to be similiar operators.

Recommendations?

I'm posting a pic of the current operators cause I know people love pictures!
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Old 01-04-2011, 09:05 AM   #2
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I replaced many of mine on our 65 Safari. Got them from Vintage Trailer Supply and have been very happy. They look and operate just like original.
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Old 01-04-2011, 09:46 AM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tkasten View Post
I replaced many of mine on our 65 Safari. Got them from Vintage Trailer Supply and have been very happy. They look and operate just like original.
Having spent a lot of time researching this, I suggest you go with VTS.
Somewhere I do have the part number for the basic window operator available from other sources, but you won't save any money and Steve has reworked his with the proper size hole, and I think, a swivel knob.

The darn things have doubled in price over the last 7 years no matter what the source
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Old 01-04-2011, 02:12 PM   #4
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Steve:

IMHO the original window design on the '64 is the problem. The operators are undersized for the size of the window (assuming you are focused on the front and back windows). I only plan to use the operators to crack open the windows a few inches for ventilation. The windows themselves have very sharp edges, and opening them all the way puts them at eye level. A very bad thing for me, as I am running into stuff all the time! Bottom line for me is use the VTS part, but do not open the windows too far, as you can strip the gears, and/or damage your eye!

-Tim
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Old 01-04-2011, 02:16 PM   #5
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The original gears were pot metal and stripped easily
Have had no trouble with the replacements in 7 years.

As Tim mentioned the windows are sharp and at a dangerous level When we have them open we use clothespins and clip a piece of red survey tape to each corner so they are easily seen
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Old 01-04-2011, 07:17 PM   #6
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I too have this problem, I have run across some 63's locally that appear to have come with lifters on both sides of windows, even the smaller ones. 8671 only has doubles on the front/rear sized windows, not the mid and small sized ones. It tweaks the frame some too each time, no wonder why so many of my window frames have had to be rewelded.
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Old 01-04-2011, 08:10 PM   #7
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My '63 has operators on both sides; replaced everything but the rear with new ones from VTS and have been very happy with them.
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Old 01-04-2011, 09:33 PM   #8
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Southern , Minnesota
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Thanks to all who reponded. This is the reason the airforums is so great! Ask a question, get some answers within a day. You guys are the best.
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Old 01-05-2011, 04:43 AM   #9
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Thanks for the posts, I too was going to order some the other day for our cruiser until I read the negative reviews on vts. Glad to see there are some good reviews also!
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Old 01-05-2011, 08:18 AM   #10
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Pictures of the front window on my '64 after I replaced with VTS window gears and nylon slides. Also note that on this window I had to have the frames beefed up (welded) in the corners. The frames are really too small for the size of the glass. At least I can now crack open the front and back windows for ventilation.
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Old 01-05-2011, 10:04 AM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GR8DANE View Post
I have to replace most window operators on my $25 1964 TradeWind. I would like some feedback on my options. The reviews on the operators from vintagetrailersupply don't look too promising. Inland RV has what looks to be similiar operators.

Recommendations?

I'm posting a pic of the current operators cause I know people love pictures!
It appears from your photo that you have a 1963 Airstream, or, a 1963 window operator.

The correct window operator for a 1964 also uses a nylon friction pad in the window channel.

Andy
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Old 01-05-2011, 10:13 AM   #12
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Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In View Post
It appears from your photo that you have a 1963 Airstream, or, a 1963 window operator.

The correct window operator for a 1964 also uses a nylon friction pad in the window channel.

Andy
This is a photo of the correct window operator.

http://www.inlandrv.com/catalog/imag...opr65ndown.jpg

Andy
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Old 01-05-2011, 05:11 PM   #13
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1961-1965 Windows

With the exception of some 1964 Airstreams that have entirely different style windows (entirely), all 1961 through 1965 windows are Hehr Hallmark 12 windows. And they can all use the same crank window operators. The old model of window operator is no longer made. Instead, Inland RV and Vintage Trailer Supply carry a lighter weight but more durable crank with stamped gears instead of the cast gears in the heavier older operators.

http://www.vintagetrailersupply.com/..._p/vts-323.htm

The version we both carry are nearly identical. They do stutter a bit when trying to lift heavier windows, but they do work and they do not strip out over time.

We publish all constructive reviews on our site, regardless of whether they are flattering or not. This is a case where some customers have wished for a crank that has more torque. I wish there was something heftier available, but we haven't found it yet.

Let me know if you have any ideas.
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Old 01-06-2011, 04:17 PM   #14
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A friend, who makes retractable knives, etc for the studios, showed me how to put a load assist on mine. He took me to spring company (downtown Los Angeles) and bought a couple of 8-10" long and the width of channel (1/4" I think). He carefully threaded it in the channel, there by creating a load which assists you when cranking the window open. It works pretty cool.
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Old 01-09-2011, 08:47 AM   #15
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Kenny,

Any chance you have any pictures of the load assist set-up?
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life is too short to drink cheap beer...unless that's all we've got and then pass me a cold one!

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Old 01-09-2011, 12:11 PM   #16
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I found this link helpful with Hehr window restoration and repair. Restoration Topics - Window Repairs Part 2
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Old 01-10-2011, 06:52 AM   #17
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Steve, I will go out and take a picture of the spring. I will also measure the spring for you. When you slide it into the track and feed it, it just fits. Feels a little like it will come back out, but doesn't. It does help quite bit. My problem was that I put safety glass in front window. It is 32" thicker, which makes window a little heavier. The extra weight, is a little too much for the cranks. Inland RV and Vintage cranks are the same. I am going to change my front glass back to plate glass as I have a rock guard to keep it from breaking. I will leave the springs for added ease. Kenny Send me ur email and I will send you the photo's.
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Old 01-10-2011, 09:09 AM   #18
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Steve, If you or anyone with a rock guard is interested. I am going to buy a sheet 4'x8' of polycarbonate $300 (Lexan) and have it non-scratch coated $200. This will make four equal replacement shields for rock guard frame. This brings the price down to about $130 ea for a new shield. If interested let me know. Kenny
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