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soldiermedic · 03-02-2009, 08:03 AM

As many of you know, I am deep in the tear down states of my 53 Flying Cloud renovation. It's been pretty cold still, so I am working on my windows. I am drilling them all out to clean the windows inside and out, add new front and back gaskets, new hardware, and screens.

I bought the window screening tool and galvanized screen from Vintage Trailer Supply, but I am having second thoughts about screening the windows. On the two windows I have completely rebuilt, the screen has not installed the easiest.

While at the Texas vintage rally, I noticed many of the older trailers with Hehr standard windows that elected to go screenless in their restoration. I was amazed at the amount of light and visibility that was let in without the screen on there. When I asked about airflow, the owners told me that with the screen on the door within a door and the vent fan on, there was plenty of airflow.

Anyone have an opinion on this? Anyone done it a different way?

Steve

Lumatic · 03-02-2009, 08:11 AM

Fiberglass screening goes in a lot easier. A black screen will also act as a shade. There is also pet resistant screen, but it's also a little more difficult to spline.

Melody Ranch · 03-02-2009, 08:16 AM

Steve....ask anyone from Minn. Wisc. or Mich. about screens. I'd plan on them if I were you.
Whats the problem your having with yours? I am waiting for my installation roller now and could use a heads up on problems to expect. By the way, I found a whole box (roll) of bronze screen wire and am planning on using it for my upcoming project. I will have lots of extra if anyone in a restoration needs some.

soldiermedic · 03-02-2009, 08:47 AM

Mr. Ranch,

The issue I am having is that no matter how much I roll the screen into the small "Triangle shaped" area, it isn't holding well. I even followed RJ Dials site for installation, and tucked in the excess screening to hold it in place. I think that bronze will look amazing when you get it installed!!! What news of that Black water tank my friend?

Lumatic,

I don't think non metal screening can be used because there isn't spline that holds the screen in. The screen must be rigid enough to stand on it's own.

I guess another thing I constantly think about is if any of these screens go bad in the future, I have to remove the entire things again, disassemble, rescreen, reassemble, and reinstall.

Steve

pbearsailor · 03-02-2009, 08:56 AM

Same issue for me coming up on my Caravanner, Steve.

Pretty sure I remember a thread that talked about adding new screens in new made up frames to our old Hehr windows, so fiberglass screening could be used. Of course, what I remember and what I think I remember can often be two different things.

I know I want to have screens, but I'd sure like to have something easier to change out than what we have now.

cheers,
another steve

utee94 · 03-02-2009, 08:56 AM

I've often wondered if it wouldn't make sense to find a way to install simpler screens on Hehr standard windows. I know it would not be original, and could potentially look awkward, but the screens on my '63 install inside with standard screen clips that simply rotate toallow the screen to be removed and reinstalled. Simple, easy. I have a tear in my rear window screen, and repairing/replacing it will be much simpler than on the Hehr standards.

Just a thought.

Personally, I want ALL of my windows to have the capability to open, and have screens over them. The airflow from each window is considerable, even without a vent fan in operation.

Good luck!
-Marcus

samb · 03-02-2009, 09:17 AM

I have no idea if your windows are the same as mine on my '61 Safari. My windows appear to have the spline groove for screens, but my screens are separate, aluminum framed screens that are held in place with twist locks. I had always thought this was as from the factory, but maybe not? Takes about 10 seconds to remove or replace a screen as wanted.
I was in Minnesota last year and there would not be life without screens. But in other places and times of year I remove the screens for better ventilation and a clearer view.
Might this be a possibility for you?
Sam

pbearsailor · 03-02-2009, 09:41 AM

Found it. It was Toastie's thread: http://www.airforums.com/forums/show...&postcount=111

cheers,
steve

soldiermedic · 03-02-2009, 10:01 AM

Ive sent a PM to toastie...here's hoping for a response.

Just the thought of having to pull them out in the event that a screen gets ripped makes me shudder.

Steve

pbearsailor · 03-02-2009, 10:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by soldiermedic

Ive sent a PM to toastie...here's hoping for a response.

Just the thought of having to pull them out in the event that a screen gets ripped makes me shudder.

Steve

I agree. My cat is sitting there right now with a grin on her face.

Melody Ranch · 04-23-2009, 11:45 AM

Well, Steve.....I did the bronze screens last night and this AM. Blood...? Watch out for the ragged edges as you make the sizing cuts at final tuck. Those things had my hands bleeding ....and HURT. Sweat, this AM its pushing 100 in the barns...so I moved outside to work on the polish...Tears....I am missing the 4 Corners Rally.

picture 1....the screen lay out and tools. I found that cutting the first big piece was best with the metal shears. The box blade worked but scored everything...did not want to screw up the powder coating on the frames.

picture 2 is the roller from Vintage. A great tool, well made and essential for the job.

picture 3 cut reliefs at the corners when rolling the lock in. If you don't it seems to pull the screen out of the groove.

Use the technique of tucking the extra edge left after using the scissors, see picture 4, for the sizing trim. (watch those stray wires...blood will flow)

avoid using polishing as a diversion to screening....it turns out to be worse job....but necessary in the big scope of things.