Service Window

[Aluminati]

I would like to install a service window like this on my 68 overlander. Does anyone know how to do this? If so...how would I go about doing this? What supports are involved? Any info that can be given would be greatly appreciated.

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Aluminati

I would like to install a service window like this on my 68 overlander. Does anyone know how to do this? If so...how would I go about doing this? What supports are involved? Any info that can be given would be greatly appreciated.

Creating a service window in a Airstream trailer, must be done with extreme caution.

The longer the trailer, the greater the problem.

The wider the opening, the greater the problem.

Each time a "main bow" is eliminated from the shell structure, an additinal structural addition, must be made.

If you have small windows, that are between two main bows, no problem. If you cut one main bow and eliminate a section of it, you must then build additional support around that opening, to compensate for the removal.

If you cut two main bows, the problem multiplies. Three main bows, and your into some real engineering.

Don't make the openings any wider than absoluely necessary.

Remember, the principal of construction of an Airstream is called "semi-monocoque, "meaning " load bearing shell."

When you cut away a portion of a main bow, you are changing the shells ability to hold up the frame and itself.

The end result of not building additional supports around the opening, will be a severe shell/frame sag.

Andy

[Excella3287]

I know California is a long way away however there is a company in Riverside that would be worth talking to. thepolishingguru.com or call Barry at 951 788-7625. Check out their website for past projects

[Aluminati]

Originally Posted by Inland RV Center, In

Creating a service window in a Airstream trailer, must be done with extreme caution.

The longer the trailer, the greater the problem.

The wider the opening, the greater the problem.

Each time a "main bow" is eliminated from the shell structure, an additinal structural addition, must be made.

If you have small windows, that are between two main bows, no problem. If you cut one main bow and eliminate a section of it, you must then build additional support around that opening, to compensate for the removal.

If you cut two main bows, the problem multiplies. Three main bows, and your into some real engineering.

Don't make the openings any wider than absoluely necessary.

Remember, the principal of construction of an Airstream is called "semi-monocoque, "meaning " load bearing shell."

When you cut away a portion of a main bow, you are changing the shells ability to hold up the frame and itself.

The end result of not building additional supports around the opening, will be a severe shell/frame sag.

Andy

How did they do this

[InsideOut]

Looks like the opening has a vertical support going through it - where the joint in the flip-up doors are. I'm sure that is a beefed up structural member and there are additional concealed supports at the opening edges as well as header supports. There are probably at least two (one in the center of each opening) ribs that were cut...maybe more, so the load has to be transfered somewhere - either that or it is a stationary unit.

I would imagine this sort of modification is more than the typical do-it-yourself project...I certainly wouldn't attempt it! Not with the integrity of the entire trailer in jeopardy!

Shari