First window installed!

[muddog16]

Installing the first window yesterday was a chore,  the first two attempts were not successful, first time I went for the inside installation, that didn't work, the second attempt was from the outside it didn't work either.  The first two attempts were with the gasket on the window, with hours of searching the internet for information on installing LeMirage windows I didn't find anything.  But what I did find in my searches was most installations were without the gasket....!   

Here is some history of my window installations, I saved one of the old window frames (fiberglass) to use as a template for the new windows, I ordered new gaskets for the windows and new windows!  This past summer I used the template and carefully laid out each window before cutting the new siding.  It took almost 4 months to actually get the windows (another long story), this put me into the Winter months installing my windows.  Rubber gaskets are not very plyable in low temps!  I have to keep the gaskets and locking cords in the house to keep them warm before installation.

Back to the installation, first I installed the gasket, then I inserted a small 1/4" braided nylon rope in the slotted track for the window in the gasket.  I used soapy water as a lubricant.  The gasket is made (my observation) where the front or outside is thinner than the interior portion of the gasket.  Placing the window over the gasket using the locking cord track in the gasket as a reference point we placed pressure on the window and pulled the rope starting at the bottom out, which pulled the gasket out so as the window would be allowed to fit in the track. Pulling the rope out slowly worked very well until we reached the top of the window (lemirage windows are curved and narrow at the top) at this point the rope pulled out, at this point I used a nylon roller tool for installing screen window cords to finish the job.....I inserted the roller between the gasket and window and rolled it around and the gasket popped out to lock the window in!   Finally the window was in!!!!   Only 10 more to go, but as each one goes in it will be easier!

I had to pass this on because it was a major stumbling block, if the windows didn't fit my siding it would have killed the whole conversion!   The Sam Adams this evening tasted pretty darn good!   Just a little note this took three days of trying and backing up........but I didn't give up I "knew" it had to work!

[Busted Knuckle]

Great news! Glad to hear that got a system that works for you! Shoot by the time yer get it down to an art you'll be taking them back out just to show how easy it is to put them in!  LOL!

  BK 

[Jriddle]

I think that is why I am converting this bus of mine. I have consumed a lot of beer thus far. Seems like every thing is a hurtle and when done need to celebrate. I wonder if I can count the beer in the cost of the conversion? Oh that is right I will not get time or money out of bus anyhow. I guess I will have to keep it and enjoy all the fruits of my labor and maybe have a few more Beers, Scotch, Jack and Coke or wine.

Good luck John

[muddog16]

I took some pictures today on the drivers side windows installed....it was to cold to be outside but I wasn't smart enough to realize it!   My son and I stalled these!  It's a definatel two man job!   The photo's are at my site help yourself.....and yes I know I have to clean the duct tape mess off!

[Dreamscape]

Looking good Pat,

We think alike, I used the same HF suction tool on my fronts when I removed and installed, rope idea worked well for me also.

Move to a warmer climate! It makes the job easier! 

Paul

[muddog16]

Follow up note.  All! of the windows are in!!!!  I still have to install the windshields but I will get to that later.   I did have one problem one of the slider windows which a company we all know.......managed to cut one window  5/8" short.....I will have to buy another window and have it cut to the proper length a minor set back, but I can handle it now   Knowing that you cut the proper window size, and the radius of the siding was correct, is a relief!  Changing things to suit your personal preferences can cause problems if you aren't paying attention.  It was warm in there yesterday the outside temp was 12f.  I'd like to thank Curved Glass Window, for coming through on the windows, it took serveral months but it was definately worthwhile! I did post new photo's on my site!   

[Nick Badame Refrig/ACC]

Hi Pat,

Looks great!

I admire you for doing it in that cold weather.... A Real Bus Nut!

Now, to get the tape residue off the aluminum.. lol

Nick-

[Chopper Scott]

Freakin awesome! That is one fine looking project.

[Sojourner]

Your project reports is always interesting.

Looking Great!

Keep us updated!

Thank you sharing your time and effort for photos in your website.

Sojourn for Christ, Gerald

[busguy01]

Nice job! Did you order the curved sliders from curved glass or motion windows? Need a couple for my EL3.
Keep up the reports!
JimH

[muddog16]

Thanks for the comments!   Jim, Motion made the sliders and all of the windows came from Curved Glass, when I ordered them I asked them to send five of them to Motion so they could make the sliders........the sliders were excellant!

[Le Mirage]

It's amazing the job you do....hold on the goal...the paradise come on...