Re-seal Window, locking rubber ring

[ValleyCenter]

I thought I should share my story of resealing the passanger window. I have a 2001 Dolphin and the windows do not have screws but rather a rubber locking gasket that goes around the inside. The gasket is rather simple to remove, mine had a spot at the top where I could use needle nose plyers to begin removing. Once you have about 1 inch out it is easy to pull out the rest by hand. Had another person on the outside to hold the window. Took out the window, cleaned off old caulk and inside tack tape seal. Put down new tack tape seal and then tried to re-install window. Could not get the locking rubber gasket back on. I called seval places and no one ever heard of a rubber locking ring. Finally, a gou at Camping World maintenance department was able to help by phone. He use to work for National RV. Here are the re-install instructions:

1) use a spline tool like the ones used to re-screen doors. has a wheel on each end. Insert the locking gasket into window and using the spline tool work the gasket into the groves. If your looking down on the windows top edge you will see a track for the spline tool in the gasket. Push down with tool. It takes some work and time. Have play with it a bit.

2) once you have the gasket re-installed do a flip test to make sure the gasket is seated completely. Push the edge of the gasket away from the frame as you would if you where installing the window, making sure it does not unseat from the channel. First time I installed the window I did not have it seated properly.

3) wrap a wrope, I used clothes line rope, all the way around the inside of the gasket leaving about 2 feet hanging on the inside.

4) Push window into place with the rubber gasket installed and wrope installed. It's hard but I did it. You have to keep working it and pushing. Use some soap on the gasket to help ease it into the window opening.

5) Once the window goes flat against wall go inside and work the rope, pulling, between edge of wall and gasket. As you pull on the rope the gasket will leaf out against the interior wall.

If I had to do it over again, I would not. From now on it masking tape and caulking to keep the windows sealed. For those who have the time this should help.

Keith

[nmclafferty]

Thanks for your comments on the window seal, Keith. I removed mine, and now need to replace it as it tore during removal. Did you happen to search for a new gasket/seal when you re-installed yours? Any suggestions on where to search for one?

Thanks, Neil

2001 National Marlin

[ValleyCenter]

I re-used my seals so did not have to buy new. However, during my internet search for window install solution I did run across some web sites that may sell the same seal/locking gasket. Try this web site to matchup and post a response for others here if you find a match (Trim-Loc Inc.). Locking Gasket

Keith

[nmclafferty]

Thanks. I sent them a sample of my seal, requesting their assistance. I'll let u know the results.

enjoy the (non-leaking) RV.

Neil