Vista window replacement

Chaz · October 11, 2021, 07:56:19 AM

Well, it's time. I have always wanted to replace the fiberglass panels, in place of the vista windows, in my 4108 with plexi-glass - since I understand passenger side glass is near impossible to come by. I will also be making stainless protecting/deflecting tubes for them in case of tree branch, etc.
I will use the proper 2 pieces Steele brand winshield gasket for the outer rim but am not sure about the center strip gasket.
So, 2 questions:
-Have you, or anyone you know put in one long window, as opposed to the 2 smaller "stock" ones?
-Do you know what that center gasket is and or where to get it, in case the single window is a dumb idea? It's not the same as the outer rim gasket, as both "grooves" are 1/4''.
I think a one piece vista window would be cool as long as it wasn't a TOTAL P.I.T.A. to put in.
Your thoughts?
Thanks.

uncle ned · October 11, 2021, 11:45:19 AM

I know on the 40 chevs and fords with 2 piece windshields the glue to 2 together.

Makes it look like one.

uncle ned

richard5933 · October 11, 2021, 11:59:40 AM

I'm shooting from the hip here, but a 2-piece design seems like it is less likely to develop cracking problems later on as there is already a pre-defined crack down the middle. Lots of stresses across the body of a bus, and having this flex point built in seems like a good idea.

Have you checked with Luke to see if there is still the gasket available? Probably not, but he'll have a clue about the best way to glue together the center piece. My understanding is that even windshield gaskets on some buses have to be made by gluing together the center piece, so that's likely the way you'll have to go here.

Chaz · October 11, 2021, 05:19:39 PM

Thanks guys. I appreciate the input. I'm still hoping I can find out if in fact a single window will work or not. I have my doubts but, I'm hoping someone knows.
I haven't spoke to Luke yet. I was going to get you all's opinions first.
Thanks!

chessie4905 · October 11, 2021, 06:02:31 PM

If made out of Lexan and curved properly, should work. Plastic would handle stress better. Leaking around gasket could be problematic. My nephew made a windshield gasket from a roll for his 4104 when Luke didn't have them yet. He used same gasket matl. for centre strip. Looked to work fine.
Took some pics. Centre rib has metal reinf. strip on inside. About 3/4 wide and 1/16 thick. Length of center rib.

dtcerrato · October 12, 2021, 06:19:09 AM

I have 1/4" to 1/4" lock strip weatherstripping. It works great between two pieces of 1/4" glass.

Chaz · October 12, 2021, 04:58:05 PM

dtcerrato,
I believe that is what I need. Do you have a pic or are you sure that is what my bus uses?

dtcerrato · October 12, 2021, 05:56:06 PM

Quote from: Chaz on October 12, 2021, 04:58:05 PM
dtcerrato,
I believe that is what I need. Do you have a pic or are you sure that is what my bus uses?

Attached is a catalog photo & part number - I don't know specifics about your model bus

Chaz · October 13, 2021, 06:32:51 AM

YEP! Spot on!! Thanks!!
So, is this something you say you have, to sell, or just used? I used Steele before and ordered from them but not Trim Loc.
Thanks again my friend!
Chaz

dtcerrato · October 13, 2021, 10:15:57 AM

Quote from: Chaz on October 13, 2021, 06:32:51 AM
YEP! Spot on!! Thanks!!
So, is this something you say you have, to sell, or just used? I used Steele before and ordered from them but not Trim Loc.
Thanks again my friend!
Chaz

How much do you need? Trim-Lok is a wholesaler & only sells 100' rolls min. I've also used Steele.

Chaz · October 13, 2021, 06:22:20 PM

I can look tomorrow but probably about a foot. I'll take a bit more tho so I can force it in.
Thanks!!
Chaz

dtcerrato · October 13, 2021, 06:55:38 PM

Chaz PM me your mailing address & I'll send you what you need for the cost to ship.

Quote from: Chaz on October 13, 2021, 06:22:20 PM
I can look tomorrow but probably about a foot. I'll take a bit more tho so I can force it in.
Thanks!!
Chaz