Posted 2013-12-26 11:18 AM (#156402) Subject: let's talk windows
Member
Posts: 26
Location: MN
I have a Diamond D livestock trailer with the front partially converted into a weekender. It has plexi glas on the area where the slats of the trailer are. Is it possible to put a sliding bus window in those slots and then put sheet metal up on the rest of the area to cover where the slots are?
Posted 2013-12-26 11:42 AM (#156404 - in reply to #156402) Subject: RE: let's talk windows
Expert
Posts: 5870
Location: western PA
Usually the original slats are affixed to a structural part of the trailer. This opening will determine the size of a replacement window. Most of the time if you attempt to enlarge the opening, you will get into engineering and structural issues of the trailer's frame and a more expensive upgrade.
Once you have the opening's measurements, search the Internet for the largest window that will fit into that space. The differences in size will determine what additional metal, will have to be installed to support and seal the new window. Unless you are familiar with sheet metal fabrication, welding and riveting, this construction may have to be farmed out to finish the installation.
Once the windows are installed, to maintain a pleasant appearance, painting the new construction is all that remains. Trying to match the original trailer's paint is very difficult. Changing to a two tone scheme is an easier/less expensive process than repainting the whole trailer. You might consider the addition of contrasting stripes to cover the changes and add interest.
The job really isn't too involved, and the mechanics of the installation can be done in a few hours. Add those labour charges to the cost of the windows and you can get a rough idea of the total cost, minus the painting.
Posted 2013-12-26 1:18 PM (#156408 - in reply to #156402) Subject: RE: let's talk windows
Member
Posts: 26
Location: MN
I actually was thinking about that, and do have two guys that are pretty handy with making things and repairing things made from metal. And was going to ask their opinions on it and see what they could come up with for me. I was hoping they could weld a window frame for it and then just wanted to have them sheet metal over the other bars. Then I could cover that up with wood.