New windows for '63 Ambassador ?

[AllyOop]

My boyfriend and I have a 63 Ambassador and are trying to restore it and make it our new home. Finding out how to replace the windows has been a real struggle. Is it do-able to get new windows and frames for this specific airstream or are we the first to try? Any sort of help would be appreciated.

[vinstream]

Why would you want new windows you can restore all the seals, latches, glass, and cranks... You have great windows!?

[AllyOop]

I agree but they are all in poor condition. The glass has cracks in it and the cranks to open and close the windows are horrible. I was went to a Vintage airstream website and they don't have anything I can use. I just my windows to work and look nice. Not one window place will help with this project.


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[AllyOop]

If there is a way to restore the originals I would be happy to hear how to do it. I have no real
Idea what I'm doing. All though these forums have been very helpful


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[Grand Master]

Vintage Trailer Supply has the cranks and glass seals. You can buy new glass anywhere.

[vinstream]

"Grand Master" Is correct! VTS has new cranks, they need to be shaved down on one side (the lip toward the window interferes a tad) I can post pictures if you need to see this!

The seals (also found at VTS) that go around the glass are not seals rather plastic "L" (SHOWEN IN RED) shape strips that get lodged in between the glass and the kerf of the window frame. The seal for the window is a rubber bulb shape (SHOWEN IN GREEN) that makes the seal of the window frame and the sill frame. If you look closely between the glass and the aluminum window frame you see black, with is how the glass is sealed to the frame. I use 3M VHB tape because you get away better seal, most use glazing tape.

The new glass is 1/8 thick or what they call Double strength glass. I like to get tempered and tinted at an additional cost. Be very careful to not hit the edge of tempered glass because it shatter(s).

The glass measurement should be about 1/16 smaller all the way around than the inside frame measurement, some will even go 1/8 smaller, due to the fact the frames tend to run out of square.

Hope that help!

[AllyOop]

Awesome!! Thank so much! Pictures would be great! I'm using so many explanation points because you are the only person that has helped and I'm very grateful!


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