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Andy Fay · 11-05-2002, 05:56 AM

I have a recently purchased 1994 Excella and when it rains I have leaks on both panoramic windows. I have received some advice but I'm not sure what the best solution is. I've been told to have an auto windshield repairman pull out the windows and seal them since they are like auto windows. I've also been told just to buy some silicone for windshield repair/sealer to solve the problem. While both options sound reasonable, my concern is the source of the leak. The way the windows are installed makes me think the source of the leak is not at the window but could be above or where the hinges for the rockguard are attached. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

53flyingcloud · 11-05-2002, 07:17 AM

Andy,
Based on what you've said. My suggestion would be to check the screws at the top of each window.
At this point, I really don't believe you need to remove the windows completely as you described. Your unit is way too new for that, yet. IMHO
See if you can put some Vulkem in the holes and, reset the screws to effect a tight seal behind the screws. It's very possible that water is finding its way in through the screws.
Good luck to you.
ciao
BTW, Don't over tighten the screws as in many cases..there's not much behind them..KWIM?

Lumatic · 01-01-2007, 07:38 AM

Silicon is readily available and dries quick and works. Over a short period of time it yellows and looks yukky. It also leaves difficult to remove residue on the skin.

Vulkem needs to be ordered, dries a lot slower, and also works. It more closely matches aluminum color and is what is used at the factory so it is less likely to look like a repair.

You could also try using a pressure washer to try and figure out where the leak is coming from. As you mentioned, leaks travel and where it comes out may or may not be near the source.

thecatsandi · 01-01-2007, 07:48 AM

Check above the window for loose or missing rivets. After my accident I had two pop. You may also want to check the seam where the cap meets the roof.

Lumatic · 01-01-2007, 07:50 AM

If you go silicon, get Aluminum color. It's a little more expensive and hard to find but does not yellow.

Shacksman · 01-01-2007, 07:51 AM

My 87 leaked from the screws in the window guard. One way to tell is remove them and see if they are rusted. Mine were rusted full length. The water dripped in and ran down to look like the window leaked.

wahoonc · 01-01-2007, 07:52 AM

Andy,
DO NOT USE SILICONE!!! If you do it will compound your problems. Silcone does not stay adhered to aluminum well at all. I would start with your rock guard, take it off clean the area where it mounts and reinstall with butyl tape sealant (available at most RV stores) and then seal along the top with Vulkem or Sikalastic. These are the two caulks that Airstream uses or has used in the past. They are available from several sources, Vintage Trailer Supply and The Mothership(Airstream). The best method to use for checking for leaks is a regular water hose, the pressure washer could actually make your problems worse by blowing out sealant. Start at the bottom of the windows with the hose until you see leaks, then start your sealing. While you are at it, check lights, panel seams, around the window frames. As far as an automotive windshield technician...I doubt they would have a clue as to how to deal with an Airstream window assembly.

Aaron

Silvertwinkie · 01-01-2007, 08:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wahoonc

Andy,
DO NOT USE SILICONE!!! As far as an automotive windshield technician...I doubt they would have a clue as to how to deal with an Airstream window assembly.

Aaron

I'm glad Aaron posted this....it's sound advice! Use either Silkaflex or Vulkem and never, and I mean never take your Airstream to a windshield place! Either find a good repair center that is Airstream certified or deal with/contact the factory.

Inland RV Center, In · 01-02-2007, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy Fay

I have a recently purchased 1994 Excella and when it rains I have leaks on both panoramic windows. I have received some advice but I'm not sure what the best solution is. I've been told to have an auto windshield repairman pull out the windows and seal them since they are like auto windows. I've also been told just to buy some silicone for windshield repair/sealer to solve the problem. While both options sound reasonable, my concern is the source of the leak. The way the windows are installed makes me think the source of the leak is not at the window but could be above or where the hinges for the rockguard are attached. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Your water leaks could also be coming from the "clearance lights," as well as possibly the window gasket itself.

Andy

InsideOut · 01-02-2007, 11:14 AM

Uhhh, guys...

I'm sure Andy Fay has either gotten his windows fixed by now or no longer owns the trailer. Last time the logged in was 11/15/02

Good advice for others though, stay away from the silicone.

Shari

Silvertwinkie · 01-02-2007, 04:42 PM

I never looked at the date of the post....how funny!

Lumatic · 01-02-2007, 06:43 PM

I guess I'm the original guilty party who didn't notice the old date with everyone else following like lemmings to the sea.

So I won't even mention the leak could also be from the AIRSTREAM logo where it is riveted to the body above the front window.

A thousand pardons,

Silvertwinkie · 01-02-2007, 07:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marshall

I guess I'm the original guilty party who didn't notice the old date with everyone else following like lemmings to the sea.

So I won't even mention the leak could also be from the AIRSTREAM logo where it is riveted to the body above the front window.

A thousand pardons,

Yea...it's Marshall's fault....sinner!

(You know I'm just kidding

)

Dark Cove · 01-02-2007, 07:34 PM

Being a newbe myself, Thanks for all the good advice. I'll take my silicon back to Lowe's tomorrow I bought today for the wrap windows on my '70 Safari.

David @ darkcove

P.s. I'll also watch time and date more closely. HA!

Radman · 01-04-2007, 12:50 PM

I brought home a 1972 27' Overlander last week. It is raining in Nor.Cal. and this a.m. noticed the the road side front wing window beginning to fill with water. I sealed all front window areas just a few days ago. What now. I have read most threads about drilling out small holes in bottom of window to alleviate the water. However, I need to find the source. Thoughts??????

0557 · 01-04-2007, 04:43 PM

My 92 limited was leaking in that area. My leak was coming in through the hinge screws that hold the solar shield/rock guard above the window.
I took each screw out individually and used Parbond, most rv stores have it.
You can squirt it up in the hole easily. That solved the problem.
I would have used vulcem but i didn't have a syringe. vulcem is very thick and hard to get into small areas less that 1/4 width.