Rear sliding windows

[CRiordan01]

I recently ordered replacement rear sliding window tracks for an upcoming overhaul of my roof and associated windows. While ordering the tracks, the question was raised if my side panels originally had windows, or if someone had cut them out of a solid side panel. I don't know the history on this truck, so I couldn't answer the question. But it got me thinking and the more I thought about it, I realized I haven't seen other series with rear sliding tracks like mine. If you look at the picture, you can see all the bolts around the window frame; so my question for you...is this someone's old handyman job or a legit older window frame?

[busboy]

They don't look like factory and are certainly not like my 1971 2a

[east high]

That looks DIY to me.

[CRiordan01]

Which begs the question...if this is DIY, will it be a mess to get RM replacement tracks installed? Not sure how they might need to be secured.

[siii8873]

this could be just some added trim on the outside. Can you shoot a few pictures of the inside.

[busboy]

this could be just some added trim on the outside. Can you shoot a few pictures of the inside.

The 3 factory drain holes and drain tubes for the lower tracks are not there so it was probably just a solid top that someone cut the window into it.

[stomper]

If you are looking for some good condition original side panels, I know where there are 2 sets here in Maine that the gentleman is trying to sell.

[SafeAirOne]

Out of curiosity, what's wrong with the existing rear window tracks? I suspect they're a lot better than factory ones.

[CRiordan01]

Honestly, they don't function badly, but in cleaning up the vehicle (repainting, etc.) the old window trim really stands out. I had been planning to take apart the roof and have it cleaned up and repainted, so I was planning to upgrade these in the process. Questioning the wisdom of that notion now.

Here are some pictures from the interior...

[SafeAirOne]

I'd just paint the outside trim the same color as the roofside to de-emphasize it, personally.

[busboy]

I'd just paint the outside trim the same color as the roofside to de-emphasize it, personally.

I agree, the factory tracks are not very good at all, I've even been thinking about removing the whole set up and just replacing with a single solid piece of glass or Lexan.

[o2batsea]

My plan would be to get some roof side with the actual proper sliding windows and not waste another moment on those.
I know where you can get a set for cheap, with everything except pretty paint. They are in Arlington.

[CRiordan01]

Appreciate the feedback from all of you. Right now, leaning toward just repainting the trim to match the sides and leave it at that (and returning the RM tracks I ordered). Just curious, what does a decent sets of sides cost these days? And O2batsea - what condition are the ones up in Arlington?

[o2batsea]

Ooops, just called Pedro. He gave them to Freddie in Rockville MD. I will give him a call if you want. If he's willing to let them go I'm sure they are yours for the asking. They are painted with black rustoleum I think. They are complete with the glass and the bullet catches and everything. Go price one (unobtanium) bullet catch, and you'll see it would be worth the drive up 95.

[o2batsea]

Hm Freddie's holding on to them. Oh well.