'72 rear window questions

[ehodg66]

I've started removing my windows to clean them up, replace gaskets, guide tracks, etc..

1. My dual pane rear window is plexi (and/or lexan). i researched the forum and to my understanding, this is NOT original? Is that correct? Should I replace both panes with glass? convert to a single pane window?
2. The black, dirt looking substance in between the panes,(see pic) Is that some kind of foam that has deteriorated? What was its purpose?
3.What type and size rivets are being used to fasten the tabs for raising and lowering the window, as well as the joint connection of the frame itself? (see attached pics)
4. I had one of the window latches shear off on me and the other is in bad shape. I assume a few of the others will not be restorable as well. Besides inlandrv, does anyone know of a less expansive source to purchase these latches?

thank you

[garry]

It is repairable and others will let you know how they did it I used Lexan on the single pane but;

It may be time to look for a replacement I think they are safety glass and to get a good seal will be hard to do.

I have found Colaws as a good source but there are many others.

RV Salvage Sources

[ehodg66]

Thanks Garry

Do you know anything about the rivet size?type? and wear to buy/

thanks

[mariusg78]

I thought the rear window was meant to be an emergency exit, thus the plexi/lexan. That way, if there was a fire in the middle of the AS, you could easily pop the window out and escape.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by mariusg78

I thought the rear window was meant to be an emergency exit, thus the plexi/lexan. That way, if there was a fire in the middle of the AS, you could easily pop the window out and escape.

The rear window can easily be quickly opened for an escape.

To use LEXAN, defeats that purpose, since you cannot break that tough plastic.

Andy

[Aerowood]

Originally Posted by ehodg66

Thanks Garry

Do you know anything about the rivet size?type? and wear to buy/

thanks

I've had the same problem with the brackets that attach to the hold open rods and the plates at the bottom where the window lock latches onto.

I used MS20470AD4-4 solid rivets. I countersunk the back side of the brackets so the bucktails would form into the countersinks and then sanded them flush. As I have been replacing the seals I just change out the rivets on the 4 brackets and also on the hinge. Changing the hinge rivets out so the bucktails are flush allows the seal to set flat and also prevents the window from stressing the hinge when closed.

[ehodg66]

Thanks everyone for your input!

Aerowood, you have any pics of your windows after rivet replacement?

thanks

[Aerowood]

I'm not sure if I took any or not, I'll take a look when I get home. You could look in my thread below, it would be there if I took any pictures.

[ehodg66]

Thanks Aerowood,

I want to use busk rivets to reconnect the window sash, hinge plate, and latch plate rivets. They have a smaller head than shell rivets. Can anyone tell me the exact rivet to use and where to purchase? Part number and/or web link would be a great help

thank you

[Aerowood]

MS20470AD4-4 but it could be a -3, I can't remember. You can order rivets in 1/4 pound increments here, or just google aircraft rivets. I just mail you some but I am currently out of the country.

http://www.gen-aircraft-hardware.com/store.asp

[ehodg66]

I think you're right with the -4. I checked aircraftspruce.com and AN470AD-4-* is 1/8" dia., where the -3's are 3/32". The holes in the frame are 1/8".

Needing 2 different lengths, One length for the plate attachments and one for reconnecting the frame. Is buying (1) batch of longer rivets and cutting them down for the plate attachments my best option?

thanks

[Aerowood]

Cutting rivets is a PIA and the bucktail of a cut AD rivet will not form nicely

[ehodg66]

Ok,
2 different lengths it shall be!

Cheers Kip