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Topic: Windshield problems,  (Read 893 times) previous topic - next topic

Windshield problems,

  I have owned my '93 Grand Villa since '08. Twice in that time the windshield has twisted out of the frame, both times it has happened when I hit the automatic leveler. The first time was in '09, I took it to F T , they installed a new rt windshield which included the heavier gasket. Last month I rolled it out to wash it and pushed the level button and the computer went nuts and out popped the glass again. Does anyone know THE fix for this problem? Fore travel said the were going to re-attach the framework to solve this, but I can't find anything on the invoice that says they did. any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Mitch
'93 U300 40' Grand Villa, 6V92 w/retarder

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #1 –
That has been an ongoing issue with the GV.  I would talk to James over at xtreme and see if they have any ideas.
2025 Wanderbox Outpost 32 on F600 Expedition Motorhome
2015 Born Free Royal Splendor on Ford 550 nonslide version  for sale
Former Coaches  covering. 360,000 miles
1999 34 U270
2000 36 U320
2001 42' double slide U320
2018 Jeep Rubicon

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #2 –
Mitch,
Check all the way around the cap/windshield joint to be sure the cap is still glued to the structure around the windshield opening.
When they come loose they call that a loose cap.
JD
John Duld
1995 U320C SE 40'

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #3 –
Local glass shop familiar with FTs told me they glue the gasket to the windshield and the frame with urethane sealant and let it sit two days before they attempt to move it at all. He said this generally prevents any window popping on the coaches in decent shape, but weaker bodies require further reinforcing of the front cap, which they are happy to perform for $$$more than I paid for the entire coach.
Matt
95 U300, 78k miles
Cat 3176 Jake Brake, HD4060.

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #5 –
Make sure the plywood bulkhead at the base of the windshield is in good shape. When I looked stright up through the access dors in the nose, that bulkhead looked just fine, but when I stuck my fingers through it, that was a hint that perhaps the integrity of that plywood was somewhat compromised. Replacing that plywood was the end of my windshield issues. Har! Just went through the above threads, and it's pretty obvoous that the rotted plywood made an impression on me.. sorry for the repetition.
Jay
1989 U280 SE, 36', 3208T Cat, build 3292

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #6 –
Thanks to all for your input, gives me lots to think about. About a month ago, there was a thread about those grab handles below the windshield. Does anyone know the exact location of these, the wood "seems" solid enough. I am going. To remove the windshields to get a better look and check for delamination. If all looks good, I plan on squaring the opening to the glass and installing the handles to lock it in place. What do you think ?
Mitch
'93 U300 40' Grand Villa, 6V92 w/retarder

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #7 –
Mitch,

On our '93 U280, the handles below the windshield do not in any way support or screw into the plywood dash shelf.  My handles simply screw into the fiberglass, with small 2" square plywood backers on each screw.  And, the wood backers were doing nothing, because they were totally dried out/rotted.  I replaced them with large fender washers held on by heavy duty "speed nuts" and epoxy.
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #8 –
FT windshields are not glued in place with urethane.  That would be a quick fix but one you would regret when you tried to replace the next WS.  Most likely the fiberglass has separated form the structure behind it as others have said.
Gary B

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #9 –
Thank you all for your input  fellow Fore Travelers. This is an awesome forum !!!!!!
      Mitch
Mitch
'93 U300 40' Grand Villa, 6V92 w/retarder

Re: Windshield problems,

Reply #10 –
We had our 280's windshield gasket replaced by MOT. Keith did the adjustment and let it sit for almost three days before we drove. New owner didn't level correctly and almost popped the drivers windshield out. The 40' grandvilla is far more susceptible to this. Don't let just any body try to remedy this and definitely take care to avoid twisting  going forward!
Tom
1998 U320 40'