|
Leak - Side Window’s Weatherstripping Loose
The weather stripping along part of the circumference of my side windows has become loose to the point that I can pull it out with ease. The rubber isn’t particularly dry, but it is quite dirty where it inserts around the window. The window has been leaking on the inside at an unacceptable pace, leaking both into the beauty ring and leaking where the beauty ring meets the van along the bottom (pictures below). The rubber isn't this loose around the whole circumference, just the side toward the rear of the van mostly. Any suggestions on how I might reseal the window and correct the leak? Do you think it would be good enough to pull out the loose weatherstripping, clean it, squirt some sealant in the gap and press the rubber back in? I can't imagine regular weatherstripping sealant would work well here, so maybe use a lap sealant or some of the Proflex RV Sealant I recently bought. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/chevrol...143dbe497.jpeg Look how I can pull the weather stripping right out. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/chevrol...d09be4741.jpeg Here is the water coming in where the beauty ring meets the van body. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/chevrol...20d4750de.jpeg |
Seals shrink. Why not just overhaul the windows, replacing the seals. They don't look particularly expensive.
|
Overhauling the windows would really be my preference, as it would solve all potential leaks and hopefully be good for many years to come. However, I'm having difficulty finding info on how to replace the seal around the glass inside the beauty(?) ring. If my understanding is correct, there is an exterior ring and an interior beauty ring, and the glass and exterior ring are usually removed/installed as a unit. There is plenty of information on the internet about replacing the glass and ring together, but I'm not sure how to go about replacing the seal that's at fault here.
Do you know of any videos/links that show/explain what I need to do here? |
It looks like your van was converted by an aftermarket upfitter. Are they still around?
|
I’m not sure. I recently bought the van from out of state as a project. Why do you ask? Also, notice that the window I’m referencing is different than the other windows on the van. It seems this one was replaced at some point. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/chevrol...a7a4e8e82.jpeg Here is an example of the windows that I assume came with the conversion. Two of the three windows are this style. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/chevrol...9934b6c6c.jpeg Here is the (different style) window that is leaking. |
I ask because the original installer might have spare gaskets or suggestions on how to repair.
Personally, I would take this job to an auto glass specialist. Having never replaced auto windows before, I'm just not comfortable doing it, and I really hate water leaks. If I screw it up, I would have to redo it, and I don't have that kind of patience. A professional has plenty of experience, the right equipment, does it in a fraction of the time I would, and the the service is guaranteed. In my experience, window work is usually pretty affordable. |
My guess is the odd/leaking one is the original one, just based on that the others aren't leaking. I'd measure and shop online for a replacement. Probably easier than finding new rubber.
|
I was worried it might come down to this. I'll try whatever home remedies I can cook up. If they fail, I suppose getting help from a professional wouldn't be the most degrading thing I've done.
Thanks for the help, all! |
There's nothing degrading about recognizing when something is not worth your time.
But if you're feeling confident then go for it. Please let us know how it goes. |
For me, it's age related. At 61, I have better things to do than to mess with something that may work, or that's too time consuming. I used to change my own oil. Not any more.
But more to your issue. By tracking down a new window, you might find an exact match. |
| All times are GMT -5. The time now is 4:35 AM. |
© 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands