window tracks

[geirws]

I have a 77 argosy 24ft. motorhome. Does anyone know how to replace the tracks for the sliding windows. The felt? in mine has deteriorated

[thenewkid64]

Here are the instructions from the service manual.

With the window in the closed position, pull the fuzzy channel inset from the lower front corner out of the track. When you get to the window glass cut the channel with a pair of snips (there is a metal band in the fuzzy channel). Slide the window forward and down int the metal channel that is empty, and allow it to bottom out (Careful, the front cab ones are NLA). The additional space top to bottom should allow you to tip the window into the coach and remove it.

Pull the rest of the fuzzy channel out and reinstall in reverse order. You may have to start higher up on the side windows, the instructions posted are for the cab windpos but it is all the same process.

[jthew1]

Thanks, "newkid"!

I'm about to attempt this on the front cab windows of my 86 - 345 motorhome. You've obviously saved me a lot of headaches (and possibly even a broken NLA window).

This forum and the quality, knowledge and helpfulness of the people on board never ceases to amaze me.

Regards,
Jeff

PS: geirws (Irwin) - thanks for asking. If you need Airstream or aftermarket part numbers and ordering information, please respond to this post or PM me.

[74Argosy24MH]

I replaced mine with Airstream parts, but would be interested in what you found aftermarket.

John

[PeterH-350LE]

I used weatherstripping I found at the local Glass company. The part number was AS126896. Its a rubber channel insert with felt where the glass rides.
I experienced with the metal/felt stuff which I didn't like at all. It was difficult to cut the weep holes and hard to install in the coach windows.
Also on removing the sliding front windows, I found that after removing the old channel inserts the window has to be lifted up and pulled out on the bottom. Its a tight fit.

[jthew1]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by 74Argosy24MH
[B]I replaced mine with Airstream parts, but would be interested in what you found aftermarket.

I should have used the word "other-market" rather than "after-market" - such as InlandRV who runs monthly specials on this nickel/dime (relatively speaking) type of stuff.

PeterH has already responded with an "after-market" option which sounds promising (I overlooked the need to cut drain holes in the channel - AARRRRGH).

Irwin, "how do you like us now" after your first post? "Ask and you shall receive!"

Jeff

[74Argosy24MH]

I experienced with the metal/felt stuff which I didn't like at all. It was difficult to cut the weep holes and hard to install in the coach windows.

I cut the weep holes with a die grinder, not too bad. But I don't like the steel reinforced channel, mine was non-existent when I got it. I silicone them once a month but something non rusting in an aluminum body would be nice.

John

[thenewkid64]

Peter,

I have to do the fronts on the 78. What was the reinforcing material in the stuff you used?

John,

I agree thet the steel really does not make sense where it will for sure get wet and rust.

[PeterH-350LE]

Its solid rubber (good quality) with felt lining inside. It comes in 10' strips and cost about $12.- per strip.
I had to go look for it. Was buried deep under all those spare plastic window sliders...Just kidding Brett, I only have one spare.
I used it on all the windows and its holding up very well. It conforms to the rounded corners by slicing the back every 1/8" with a sharp blade.
The metal/felt stuff is expensive and worthless. It bunches up in the corners, falls apart and rusts.

[74Argosy24MH]

Does that look like it would work in yours? If so JC Whitney has some that is similar. I thought about it before I found I could get the original from Airstream.

John

[PeterH-350LE]

Originally posted by 74Argosy24MH
Does that look like it would work in yours? If so JC Whitney has some that is similar. I thought about it before I found I could get the original from Airstream.

John

just curious, John, do you remember the cost for the original stuff?
I spent about $70.- on the weatherstripping to do all the windows.

[thenewkid64]

Peter,

That looks like it will work. Now to find it. I will check in JC whitney. I bought the fuzzy to redo the 76 MH I tink it was in the $2.25/ft range from a local RV source (Miami) but that's local to me lately.

Based on the price you paid Peter, your stuff will be cheaper, and in your experience it may be better. I only have the front cab windows to do, right?

I see there is some type of rubber seal on the edge of the side windows but I have yet to take a look at it. BTW I have a few feet of the fuzzy stuff if someone needs it, but I will have to dig thru the box of vertical lip seal to find it I bought too much back when it was available Now I can redo the windows I need to do on the 78!

[PeterH-350LE]

Brett, you will find that the same stuff works for ALL your windows, except the rear flip up (if present on your rig)
BTW, the dimensions are 1/2" wide by 1/2" tall. (but fits the ~3/8" channel when compressed), which makes me think it is sold as 3/8x1/2

[74Argosy24MH]

Peter

You got a non rusting deal. The original was $2.25 a foot in 2000. My side sliders use the same as the driver-passenger windows, the track and trim, shipping, tax were $169.

Brett, check this.

John