Going to install window in door - clearance amount?

[larry2c]

I bought a 12" X 20" window frame and tinted tempered glass window to install in our TT dor. There is no existing window there and the parts I bought didn't say how much clearance to provide between the outer lip of the frame (see pic for what I'm calling the outer lip) and the cutout. I was just wondering if others who have done this mod have a go by for that clearance. My thought is 1/16" to 1/8" so you have some room to slide the frame & window in and adjust it for straightness.

Thoughts? Thanks!

[Kimber45]

yes you need a little play to adjust but it also has to overlap good to get a good seal. Measure and mark twice and cut once. What are you cutting with? You may need to cut twice from each side. I had issues with a jig saw blade pulling the fiberglass skin as it went up and down through the door.

[bubbles]

Here's a template with measurements on it. Can make a cardboard template and check.

[larry2c]

Thanks Bubbles, I was surprised my frame didn't come with a template.

Yes, Kimber - I'll be using a jigsaw so I am a bit nervous on how the fiberglass reacts. I'll use a fine pitch blade and put tape on the door to help prevent delamination.

Once I'm finished, I'll post up some pics. I'm really looking forward to the extra light this will let in (maybe the DW won't have to give me grief for opening the door when it's still cold out!)

[bedubya]

I'm thinking of doing that to my 232RBXL. Where did you get the window kit?

[larry2c]

And now we can see out the door!

I didn't realize until I got the hole cut that I didn't have a before picture but I guess we've all seen a door without a window

Easy mod and we really wanted the extra light in the trailer so this gets a from me and DW. Thanks for the help!

[spock123]

That’s a cool mod. I wouldn’t mind doing that on our Cedar Creek

[retiredcamper47]

I just bought this kit from Tweetys. It is called "Slim Shade" and cost under $100. The kit contains the tinted glass, inner and outer door trim, and the shade.

Bob

[larry2c]

Ours is a combo - glass from Ross RV Innovations and frame from CW. No shade but DW is going to make a curtain that will use good ole Velcro to hold it in place when required.

[Bigfeet]

Originally Posted by larry2c

Ours is a combo - glass from Ross RV Innovations and frame from CW. No shade but DW is going to make a curtain that will use good ole Velcro to hold it in place when required.

Larry, check Ross R V for his shade that fastens to the screen with magnets when needed. We have his window and shade, works great.

[wcrafter]

Nice job Larry2c looks like you had it professionally installed.

[Arkansas Traveler]

[QUOTE=bedubya;1776377]I'm thinking of doing that to my 232RBXL. Where did you get the window kit?[/QUOT

Dyers rv has the best price. I just ordered one for $79.99. Amazon wanted over $100.

[nakman]

Been reading quite a few of these threads... all very similar. Anyone who has done this mod have any regrets? or long-term feedback on how it's doing? Also it looks like the Slim Shade can be had on Amazon for about $75 now...

And random question, anyone know of a window option that would be operable? Would be great if this could also add ventilation.

[jcrevs]

ive done this - came out great, no regrets, not sure about a ventilation option but we have a screen door for that, you cant operate the shade inside with the screen door is the only thing that kinda sucks, but we leave it open during the day then shut at night. Install the shade upside down, so you pull down to open and pull up to close. then you can keep it slightly down without losing privacy and see who is at the door at night.

also save some $ with an amazon warehouse deal if you are a prime member. I used the box to make my own template. Measure 4x cut once. Super easy to cut with a jigsaw and good blade with lotsa teeth - i used a laminate blade. Measured center left/right then used that measurement for top of window to top of door.