Classic Motorcoach Window Upgrade Options?

[my38special]

I've been exploring options to upgrade my '83 Classic Newell Coach windows and, so far, I've found that I can only buy new single-pane windows due to the 2.5" radius corners. However, I really want to install double-pane windows for the reduced road noise and greater insulating qualities. Has anyone found a company that offers 2.5" radius double-pane windows or have experience cutting the bus window frames larger to accommodate 3" radius?

[86loco]

Mine are the original HEHR single pane windows and we have thought about changing things out but who knows we don't travel in extreme weather.

A few years ago my brother ordered new double pane windows from Motion Windows and he changed the radius from 2.5" over to 3". I could send you a sample corner of a window frame if that would be of any help to you.

You will have a little play to adjust the window around some without too much of an issue. The seal should more than covers it. Around the windows where the outer rim of the window it wasn't exactly the same on the new ones, my brother and I touched it up with matched paint of the coach and then he sealed around the windows all with black window silicone and you can't tell they are not OEM.

[JohnC]

Peninsula Windows replaced the the windows on both my 79 and 87 Newells, with their double pane versions.

For pre-87 parallelogram windows I suggest taking your coach to Peninsula in Vancouver Washington, as the radius measurements are very difficult and very critical.

I did this a long time ago, and what seems like another life, but I was very impressed with Peninsula. I still have the 87 coach and the windows are still fog free and beautiful.

[greatriver]

Here is the web address for these folks. I see that they have a Newell in their RV ad and appear to make a quality product.

As someone who was in the glass business for a number of years I can tell you that special care must be used in making and installing insulating glass in anything that moves be it a sliding panel of a patio door, a boat, or a motorcoach. If proper sealants are used along with neoprene setting blocks and and blocking you can expect many years of trouble free use in the above. These people appear to know what they are doing.

http://www.motionwindows.com/custom-recreation-vehicles.php

[encantotom]

i put all new peninsula windows in my coach and they are wonderful. i did the install myself (meaning me, my wife, my adult children). they sent me a sample radius corner. i did on a long trip, stop by their facility in the northwest and they were very nice to me and i had them do a little work to correct some things for me.

they would be tricker to measure, but if you are bold enough, not a big deal. but sure would be easier to go there and have them do it. i wont mess with them again.

tom

[my38special]

Taking the advice from this forum, I contacted Motion Windows and they quickly sent me an 1800 series (dual pane) angle piece and a paper template. After laying out the cut lines on masking tape and triple-checking my calculations, I jigsaw'd the inside of my first parallelogram window. I was impressed with the construction of Newell when I found u-shaped channeling encasing the entire window opening. Leaving the horizontal pieces untouched, I shortened the vertical channels and re-riveted them into place. I then cutout the outside skin. After I get all 10 windows cutout, I will order my new windows and post an update. Thanks to all for the insight and help so far on this slightly scary project.

Those who prefer pictures to text can view my progress below:

[folivier]

Yeah, that woulda scared me! Bet that the new windows will look great.

[NewellCrazy]

my38special, you have taken on a grand task. It is always nice to see someone up for a challenge as a lot of Newell owners will shy away from this sort of thing and just get out the check book. Way to go, please keep us updated on your progress as this is great.

[fulltiming]

Great job. You will be surprised how much the dual-pane windows help.

[my38special]

Well, it took longer than I'd hoped, but I've now cut out all 10 of my windows. In addition to making all my parallelogram windows into larger rectangular windows, I also took the opportunity to enlarge and center my rectangular kitchen, door and bathroom windows. In truth, I believe this job is only for those people known to be both very mechanical and exacting. I ordered the windows yesterday and must now wait, with plastic over the window openings, until my new dual-pane windows arrive. Apparently, I could be waiting for about 6 weeks. For you curious types, I'll post my final results in about 2 months after my windows arrive and I find time to install them all. I expect it to look fantastic.

[Neweller]

Who knows the first year of dual pane windows on a Newell?

By the way my38special, you are making some great progress. I have done a fair share of window projects over the years and admire your ability to make it happen. Hopefully others will be brave enough to go it as you are. I have to believe between those that have or are gaining experience with this sort of thing, it will open up many more possibilities for others with like aspirations. I will gladly help anyone near me in Colorado or if I'm on the road in your area be glad to stop by and give a hand.

[fulltiming]

Great question Ken!! I know that the Series 2000 (started model year 1990) had dual pane windows, at least as an option. Most Newells I have seen after about 1991 had the dual pane windows throughout (windshield obviously the exception).

This is a thread I will follow closely to gather more data.

OK, Classic owners, who has the oldest coach will FACTORY dual pane windows!!

[Bill & Sonja]

Our 87 has all dual pane penninsula windows. They are original as far as I know and all in good condition.

[fulltiming]

Great, thanks Bill. How about pre '87 Newell owners?? Let's see how far back we can go.

[charlesb]

What happen with the windows?:D

[my38special]

To any who may be curious, yes, I'm still working on my bus; albeit at a snail's pace. Life, work, project expansion and my pickiness have collectively kept me from making quick headway. Well, enough with the excuses, I now have the bathroom and kitchen windows installed. As you can see, I've gutted the kitchen cupboards (new ones are on their way) and replaced the formica on the kitchen wall. I have found that the new Motion Windows are very close to my submitted measurements. This is definite credit to the manufacturer; however, I didn't realize that the window openings, which I cut, must be oversize enough to allow for the "z" design of internal window rings. This meant I had to very carefully router out a 3/16" deep x 1/4" wide groove all around the window opening. I also opted to order thicker foam gasket for the outside window flange due to the 1/16" ridges which are on the external body panels of vintage Newells. I wanted to be 100% sure that there will be no leaks. Overall, I'm pleased with how the first two windows went in. Now I just need to keep up the progress.

[my38special]

After installing the first 3 small windows (kitchen, door, bathroom), I've now trial fit and routered out around the opening of the remaining 6 larger windows. Despite all my earlier measuring efforts, I also had to trim one window cut-out (co-pilot) when I determined that the opening wasn't quite square and, therefore, wouldn't accept the new window. I'm now just finishing off wall preps (will be wallpapering) before I install the remaining windows.

[my38special]

Well, like most projects, it took a lot longer than expected, but I've finally installed all the windows. As you might notice, I put T-sliders in all four corners for ventilation. The rest of the windows are all solid glass, to maximize visibility. While doing the project, I kept uncovering "little" things that I should fix. Ultimately, I replaced some plywood flooring, where there was water damage and I opted to wallpaper all the outside walls. The wallpaper is an industrial grade 52" wide thick style wallpaper. By carefully starting at the right spots, I was able to ensure all seams ended up within window openings. This of course minimized the overall amount of seam length. Additionally, I'm in the process of replacing all the electrical plug-ins and switches with colour coordinated models. Now onto replacing all the base cabinets...

[The Newell]

I have been thinking of doing the same thing. I'm just tossed on the looks. I really like the angled windows too and thought about going with larger angled dual-pane tinted windows.

[jmacstack]

My 87 does not have double pane windows nor are they Peninsulas! Bill are you sure yours are original? Jennifer