Airstream Window Repair - Awning Windows

I bought the largest tarp I could find to cover our airstream while our windows are out for cleaning and repair. We started with the awning widows - easiest to get in and out, but hardest to reassemble. We plan to get awning windows done first and back in, then removing more for another round, hence this phase 1.

Before we removed any windows, we did research on all the materials needed for restoration of the airstream windows. The best source we found was the Vintage Trailer Gaskets website, vintage window library.

We removed the screws (with screw sleeve) at the bottom of the window arms. The top of the arms slide out from side window track. We left the arms in place and took window only. Removal of window is accomplished via a top hinge. Once arms are detached, the window should be opened up to a 45 degree angle upward to unhinge.

Getting the window frame removed was not fun.

TIP: If your windows don't come apart without a lot of muscle, instead of accidentally breaking your inner panes like we did, just cut the connecting stud. You can order 1/4' x 3/16' key stock online for cheap and cut it to size to replace what you cut. You will need the proper tool for cutting the key stock and removing the old, but it saved us a lot of heartache later on the tougher windows.

Too much muscle.

Recruiting help on these! My hands can only take so much cleaning and scraping.

Glass is clean and ready for re-assembly!

A few key cleaning products and tools for your window glass and frame cleaning project.

A big shout out to The Seek First Adventure on tips for this alignment jig we found on their youtube channel. It was helpful in re-assembly of the awning windows. You can also find it on the Vintage Trailer Gaskets website.

Once the outer pane was fitted in the jig, a fresh new spacer was added, 3/16th' from the edge of the outer pane.

Edges of the spacer were cut at an angle and Loctite flexible adhesive applied to help seal.

Adding a secondary sealant. It can be purchased here.

We let the sealant dry for 24 hours before adding the gasket around the outer edge. WD-40 was then used liberally inside the frame and on sealant to allow the frame to slide back onto the restored window glass assembly.