1968 Overlander window leaks

[JL24]

Hey everyone! So I know from researching this is an issue that has been explored, discussed and evaluated dozens of times. I really have researched this and used the search feature dozens of times but I can't find an exact match so I figured I would ask. I finally started replacing my subfloor after concluding I was leak proof..... I was wrong. There appears to be water seeping in around the window not in the seal or the hinge but specifically below the window sill where the u channel 1.5" spacer fits. I have: replaced window seals (including fixed window seals), run a bead of acryl-r around the edges where the gap is, rebucked rivets where they failed the suction test and I still have water seeping in and running down to my new plywood.

Has anyone else found a solution? I am at a point where I am considering drilling out all the rivets, slapping some Trempro in there and wet bucking all new modified (small head big shank) rivets in. It seems like overkill but at somepoint I have to do something different.

[mrdes8]

Hello, I sure feel for you... my '68 had some challenges to overcome. Do you have vista view upper windows in the front? That was where 2 of my main leaks were, would travel across the front inside cap and drip on the front gaucho. Sealed them up, now dry. Also had to give a lot of attention to front body seams. Anywhere there is a penetration or seam is a possible leak. Are your inner skins in or out still? Find the general area of the leak, get a helper, start low with a hose and keep going up the body 'til the leak appears. Water can travel a long way. Use tape on the outside to experiment with sealing off various places. I am a fan of par-bond but other sealants are also good. Post some pics if possible.
Good luck, Mark D

[dbj216]

I had a 66 Trade Wind with those famous Corning curved glass windows. The 68 windows were modified and are bit better.

One thing I did was "leak test" my trailer like you might an inner tube. I rented a "bounce house" high volume squirrel cage fan. I made a simple plywood fan mount that fit the cargo door. I then taped the fridge vents (lower and upper) shut plus any other openings in the trailer.

I powered up the fan and pressurized the trailer interior. You could really feel the air pressure when I cracked open the door. Then I painted every seam from the top down with a soap solution. I found 7 leaks in my Trade Wind, three of which were from the windows. I sealed up the leaks and tested the area again until I got no bubbles.

It might be a valid method for your troublesome leak.

David