Curtis Wright Alien eyes window replacement

[chris hart]

Howdy all. My Curtis Wright trailer restoration is going well and, as usual, much longer than I had anticipated! I have a window question regarding the front and back windows. One thing that I want to figure out before I attempt it is, how to put the alien eye windows in. John (PLVMB) installed his using the original idea of putting a frame of plywood inside the aluminum channel that goes around the edge of the window area on the body. I was thinking of doing that and using Sikaflex to slather the wood in order to make a nice seal. The only problem with that is that, if I want to remove the window at a later time and replace it, it would be impossible to remove the channel without damaging it. I want to use the original channel but want to use some other method to attach it to the body of the trailer. What have you guys done? Is there a rubber gasket that I can use instead? When removing and replacing the windows, is it necessary to remove the channel from the body? If I can permanently put the channel on the body, I would permanently install it with Sikaflex. Not real sure how to install the window so that it doesn't leak. Between the channel and the window, what gasket should I use? I would want to use something temporary so that I could replace a window later if necessary. Thanks! Chris

[ajcross]

Hi Chris,
I am working on a 1948 C.W. trailer as well. I'm just starting the Alien windows and was wondering if you ever figured out a gasket for yours?
Thanks,
Andrew in Sherman oaks.

[chris hart]

Hi Andrew. I just made a 1/2" frame out of 1/4" plywood. That is nailed to the skin. That is the original design. I then slathered the wood with Sikaflex and gobbed Sikaflex into the aluminum channel and put it in place. I temporarily screwed it in place to let the Sikaflex dry for a few days. I then put Butyl (not putty) tape (double thickness) around the inside of the frame and bolted the window in place. No leaks. Clean install.