Window latch cleaning?

[TheatricalKate]

Alright, I swear I've read every window thread on this forum, and now reread...

I remember reading - and can't re-find - a tutorial on cleaning out the interior window channels and latches to get a good seal. Soap & water with a toothbrush?

I'm planning on being a part-timer between New Mexico and Oregon, primarily.

Right now, most of the windows in my 2007 International are solid. Three like to fall on just one side, and I'm leaning towards just making some good, long, thermal curtains rather than loose the space with insulation. And since I am a part timer, it doesn't make sense to me to change out the windows with either RV or the side sliding ones - although those who have done this, they look great!

Can anyone confirm the soap & water or link to the thread? Also, I get how soap & water help make the glide of the windows easier. I don't get how that helps the latches hold...

Thanks friends!
Kate.

[musigenesis]

My windows (on a 2003 International) generally stay shut with no problem - they seem to not suffer from the typical school bus window problems (other than the leaking) but at 30" high (typical windows are 24"). I think they're a different model than the standard variety. However, sometimes the latches "stick" when I close a window (i.e. they don't spring back to fully engage the top notches) and when this happens the window will occasionally drop open an inch or so while I'm driving and then the latches stick into a lower notch.

Having the latches clean and well-lubricated should help them fully engage when you close the window, and prevent the window from opening unexpectedly. The spring in the latch is what should be keeping them engaged rather than the friction, which is why lubricating them is a good idea.

[TheatricalKate]

Thanks. What do you clean & lubricate yours with?

[DeMac]

Originally Posted by TheatricalKate

I remember reading - and can't re-find - a tutorial on cleaning out the interior window channels and latches to get a good seal. Soap & water with a toothbrush?

Can anyone confirm the soap & water or link to the thread? Also, I get how soap & water help make the glide of the windows easier. I don't get how that helps the latches hold...

Thanks friends!
Kate.

The thread below describes cleaning window tracks with a toothbrush, soap & water. I believe this is the thread you referenced, though you posted to it yesterday.

https://www.skoolie.net/forums/f13/w...tml#post440834

As Musigenesis stated above,
silicone lubricant prevents the latch from sticking in the open position.

There is also a hand tool that clears/ shapes the latch hole. Available from school bus parts dealers.

[musigenesis]

Originally Posted by TheatricalKate

Thanks. What do you clean & lubricate yours with?

Heh, I cleaned them with a hose and lubricated them with nothing.