sticky window port side

[pugtug613]

Well, I said I would try and figure this dilemma out. It must be the Mechanical Engineer in me? I believe I fixed this problem. Time will tell. Believe it or not, I used Gorilla tape! I originally thought about filing off the little edge that locks into the outside of the window latch. That would work, but I don't feel comfortable filing away at the frame. I noticed, while cleaning the boat, the starboard side windows have a black sticker on them. The stickers goes all the way to the edge. The port side, the sticker stops short and leaves that edge exposed. I put a piece of gorilla tape over the outside of the latch, covering that lip. This allows the window to ramp over that edge on the frame. So far, I SLAMMED the window and came back the next day and it opened fine. I did 2 of the 3 windows on the port side, they were the sticky ones. It's only been 2 days, so I reserve the right to reverse my decision. But, as of now, I fixed the problem. I would be interested if anyone else were to try this and it works for them as well. Let me know (and everyone else).

 

[pugtug613]

So far so good. My windows still do not stick.

 

[Gin]

An interesting solution. How long do you expect the tape to hold up? Guess you can just replace it. Why do you think this solves the problem? Any chance of posting a pic? I'm not sure I'm able to visualize what you have done all that well. But congrats, in all events, on your success!

 

[pugtug613]

I knew someone would ask for a picture. I was going to take one, but I have to hang out the window and didn't feel like it. I will.

I believe it works because it causes a ramp over the sharp edge. I suspect it will fail eventually, but I'll put on a new piece unless I want to file.

 

[walldog]

I found that by spreading the track a bit at the latch worked for us. Slam it as hard as we want now and it does not stick. I believe that the track was compressed (narrowed) somewhat and would not allow the latch to open enough to clear the catch.

Lived with the problem for 3 years on the 27, just decided to fix it on this one.

 

[pugtug613]

Why is it the port side only? Reading all the many posts about this, it's always on the port side. Maybe the factory should check the size of the cutouts and compare the starboard with the port side? If the track is deformed, I would suspect the opening is too tight or out of square. I will measure the gap in the track port and starboard. If what your saying is true port should be smaller. It will give me a chance to blow the dust off my vernier caliper! I guess expanding the track or using Gorilla tape are my two options. This should not be an issue IMO. At the price point of the Ranger Tug, you shouldn't have to "force" a window open and then be careful not to slam it shut. Am I right? But, if that's the only issue, it's OK. I love the boat.

Chester

 

[Scouters]

Funny I thought this might be thread. We just delivered or R27 in July and the only real disappointment was the quality of the windows. Couple worked fine, couple opened like a rubics cube and same with screens. We were in real bug area on Lk Superior and wished the windows were the same quality as the rest of the boat.

 

[pugtug613]

This appears to be an on going problem. IMO, the hole in the fiberglass needs to be looked at. There must be some interference between the size of the hole and the frame. Then with hot and cold, you get movement. My windows work fine now. I suggest you look at one window that works fine. Measure the gap in the frame and adjust. Also silicone spray will help.

Chester