window replacement panels

[dirtanddogfur]

I thought I had seen someone who was (is?) making replacement panels for passenger van windows.



In other words, you would remove the glass and replace w a sheet of aluminum.



I tried searching but not sure exactly what they would be called.



Has anybody seen or used something like this?

[thejm]

There’s these:

https://flarespace.com/products/ford...ies-van-flares

[Twoxentrix]

Some direction on these threads:
https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ans-25355.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ack-21146.html

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...nks-28814.html

[dirtanddogfur]

Thanks for the input.



Sounds like I have some fabbing to do . . . .

[JWA]

When I acquired a Club Wagon extended body with full glass and discovering no one made solid replacement window opening panels I concocted a number of possible permutations how I could DIY this in the driveway. For me it would have started with an accurate template that would account for the body curvature--got that solved at least in my mind.

The next challenge was how to attach the fabricated panels to the van body, wanted to use the factory type mounting and sealing system and came up with an idea that would have been nothing more than a test of concept.

Next up was what material to use Lexan or perhaps aluminum, the choice there dictating how I'd finish or paint the panels for a pleasing look, something that didn't scream out "high value items inside".

Sadly the need to put that vehicle on the road over ran the desire to create something I could not only use for myself but perhaps provide a "how to" of sorts. Lack of a space to work on a van with all glass removed didn't help much---I work too slowly when doing a project like this.

Anyway at this point I understand why the availability of these types panels don't exist or are rarely if ever seen out here in the bigger world.

Sorry for the detour--hope someone somewhere is making these even now.

[b. rock]

I can tell you that grabbing sheet metal from a donor van and welding it in is a PITA.

I am debating on trying body panel epoxy on the next panel and seeing how that goes.

[dirtanddogfur]

Originally Posted by JWA

Anyway at this point I understand why the availability of these types panels don't exist or are rarely if ever seen out here in the bigger world.

Sorry for the detour--hope someone somewhere is making these even now.

Yup, just doing the mental math on the fabrication becomes a tad daunting.



Ironically, I actually want to put a smaller, opening window (with a screen) in the panel. Definitely the long way around . . . . .


Also: if traffic on this thread is any indication, not a lot of demand.

[E-350]

Regarding traffic on thread:
I personally have black window tint. You could still throw insulation from the inside. Just don‘t a good reason why I should take that effort.

[shenrie]

I’ve posted a company that makes these panels somewhere either here or on expo. It’s a news van company and they are insanely proud of their offerings. If you can’t find my post send me a pm as a reminder and I’ll track down the info again and get it to you. If I wasn’t headed out the door to go camping, I’d look it up now, but camping is more important right now

I still have a passenger side rear door aluminum blank for sale, but someone already bought the driver side.

[Twoxentrix]

shenrie,
You shared it on the LAST post in this Thread (I remember because I visited the site when you shared and was unable to locate the panels - probably just me though)
https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...ack-21146.html