Window Doesn't Seal

[carls017]

One of the windows on my Airstream doesn't seal tightly when closed, leaving a small gap on the sides and bottom corners. Previous owners said they had no problems with leaking, but I'm concerned, especially over the winter. Is this something that I should be overly concerned about? I thought about using some window caulking to seal up the gap for this winter, and deciding what to do about it in the spring.

LaVonne

[trumpwer]

If you have twist clips like mine, you adjust them from the outside, in the window box. There should be 2 nuts behind the latch, 1 in front. Loosen the one in front, then run the two back ones back a turn or so. Tighten up the front one. That should move the latch back just a little and tighten up the seal when window is closed. If you set it too tight, inside clamps won't snap to shut.

[carls017]

I have the clips on the bottom that catch the window and pull it forward to seal it. It closes tightly at the bottom where the clips are located, but the corners are appear bent, almost as if the clips have pulled the window too tight, causing the frame to bend in by the clips and out at the corners and sides. Does this make sense? It closes, but there are gaps in the corner and sides.

LaVonne

[rluhr]

LaVonne, check that your windows have the proper weatherstripping. It should be a "double flared" type that looks like this . (Picture from Inland RV website).

I'm not sure if having the wrong weatherstripping would cause the problem you are talking about but if you are concerned about leaks it would be a good idea to get the right stuff in place.

I definitely wouldn't just caulk the gap shut. Sounds like that might cause more trouble in the long run. If you post a picture of the problem, someone on this board may be able to offer the exact solution.

Good luck

-- RL

[carls017]

RL, I checked the picture and this sure looks like the weatherstripping I have on all the windows. I'll take a picture later this week and post it for more suggestions.

I may have mispoke when I used the word "caulk" - I was thinking of using that weatherstripping stuff that looks like a small cord and can be easily removed after the winter is over. This would be a temporary fix. I'm winterizing this Thursday and the campground where my trailer is located closes for the season this coming weekend, meaning I will not be able to work on this until spring.

LaVonne