Window Sizes in Vintage Airstreams

[Vernation]

Hi There,
I am planning to replace all the windows in my '65 Safari.
Four of my windows were plexiglass, three of which have broken.
The remaining windows are probably original--regular plate glass.
I'd like to put in some tempered glass for safety's sake.
(Also planning to tint them).



Luckily the '65 Safaris have un-curved glass, so I will be able to order some from a regular glass place.


Here's my question:
I've been measuring the windows and coming up with very strange dimensions.
For example, the rear window measures 20 1/16" by 37 9/16".
The glass place says they have a +- 1/16" tolerance, so I'm wondering if that was the case back in the 60's too.
That would make my rear window 20" by 37 1/2" which makes a bit more sense...


Does anybody know where to find the official measurements of Airstream windows?

Should I not be measuring the windows at all, but the frame that they go into?

Is it better to err on the smaller side for glass measurements?

How forgiving are those edge trim pieces--will they fall out if the glass is too small, how much leeway do I have?
(Any advise on specific tint shade?)



I know this is somewhat of an obscure question. Any advise you can give would be great.
Thanks!

[Bubba L]

We’ve replaced the front and rear glass in our 66 Safari and all the glass in our 55 FC with tempered. Rule of thumb is the glass is 1/16” from the inside edge of the frame (or smaller than the frame on all sides). Clean the frame and place the 1/4” x 1/16” glazing strip. Seat the glass. I went ahead and caulked the 1/16” space between the edge of the glass and frame. Probably not necessary. We purchased all our glazing and trim from Robert at Vintage Trailer Gaskets in Ca. VTS probably has all the stuff too. Good luck

[islandtrader]

Originally Posted by Bubba L

We’ve replaced the front and rear glass in our 66 Safari and all the glass in our 55 FC with tempered. Rule of thumb is the glass is 1/16” from the inside edge of the frame (or smaller than the frame on all sides).

I agree with Bubba on the size factor...after that it depends on how much extra you want to do. I have seen Bubba's work it is first class.

I replaced all the gaskets and window seals, from VTS. All my windows are regular glass and I did not glaze them in. After 6k trailer miles last year I can say nothing leaked and no glass was broken.

[Vernation]

So are you saying that you don't even use that grey plastic outside window trim? You just use caulk instead?

[Vernation]

PS. I was removing one of the last windows today and it broke--definitely not tempered glass.

[Bubba L]

Originally Posted by Vernation

So are you saying that you don't even use that grey plastic outside window trim? You just use caulk instead?

You still use the exterior window trim. I just added a small bead of caulk and tooled it level with the glass pane against the frame. Probably not needed, but I tend to have fun adding things.

[islandtrader]

Originally Posted by Bubba L

You still use the exterior window trim. I just added a small bead of caulk and tooled it level with the glass pane against the frame. Probably not needed, but I tend to have fun adding things.

I will say this: On my 6k journey last summer, there were a few windows that the exterior corner window trim got "loose" after a long haul. So I dabbed a little silicone in the corners of the trim and all was well.

Bubba does more...I do less.