skinnig old widows

[mikke60]

old topic,new project.  I would like to know if 18 gauge is heavy enough to close in windows?  also,is galvanized recommended?  thanks mike

[TomC]

On my transit, the window frames are exactly 1.5" thick.  I cut two sheets of 3/4" plywood and glued them together then used 16 gauge aluminum sheet glued and riveted to the outside.  Has worked well for the past 16 years.  Simple-yet effective. 

18 gauge seems a bit thin.  I would keep with aluminum, even though you're trying to use galvanized steel.  It just makes for less chance of corrosion.  Good Luck, TomC

[Singing Land Cruiser]

Here is how us poor people do it
http://singinglandcruiser.blogspot.com/search/label/Window%20Skins
Hope it helps, M&C

[artvonne]

    Interesting.

    I like the look of a Bus with its windows, but shake my head at just walling over them. This is like the best of both worlds.   

[robertglines1]

I use 16 gauge steel(cold roll) I do paint back before installation. reason on first application I didn't and had some rust streaks from under sheet. It was sealed but the last 1/8 inch caused problem. The cold roll sheet holds primer much better and there fore lessens the possibility of peeling. I have had no wrinkle problems like the alum sheet has(factory installed) Must clean good and then rough up with approx 240 grit sandpaper to help primer bond.  I have done 4 applications (differant coaches) and prefer steel. I don't see advantage of galvanized.It does present it's own problems with paint adhesion:last time I used it on differant project I had to  get very aggressive with pre sanding. Just My way.  Happy Bussing   Bob

[robertglines1]

MIKKE 60   Help to know your general location and type of bus.   help might be just around corner.  Lot's of bus nuts share work and extra conversion materials.   Bob   S.W. Indiana   Ps put in your profile or signature line