I broke the corner off the window next to my entry door

jimcenname · June 2020

Anybody ever walk into the extended window next the entry door on a T@B400. I've done it a few times, it's right in the way during entry/exit. This time, hitting it from the door/forward side, It slide to the rear of the attachment track and the top right (forward) corner of the window broke off. I am disappointed, since I didn't hit it that hard. The sealing surface of the window still fully contacts the gasket but still disappointing.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021717/uploads/editor/5q/led5i5t5qxsk.jpg

falcon1970 · June 2020

@jimcenname
You might try a product called "Bondic" to repair the window. It claims it is a chemical weld and not a glue. I have had success in some applications and less success in others. Since the window is a polycarbonate and fairly clear it might work well.

https://getbondic.io/offer-01/?lpid=895&utm_source=8580&utm_medium=bondic&utm_term=514&utm_content=&utm_campaign=0&aff_id=8580&camp_id=0&sub_id=bondic&req_id=68eb324f4aa24f38a97e5ead5e859472&contract_id=0&oid=514&device_type=PC&country_name=United+States

ChrisFix · June 2020

@jimcenname
I only have two trips under my belt so far, but also discovered the head hazard of the kitchen window when it isn't fully deployed as high as it can open.
My wife had opened it about half way, which was the first time it had been left in that position, and I promptly ran right into it too!
Good luck with getting it fixed. Replacement is easy with these windows, but I imagine a bit pricey for the new one.

Gliddenwoods · June 2020

I (6' 4") did the same last year on my second TAB 400 camping trip! I replaced the similarly broken window with a new one. I now place a table in that location during site set-up.

Now have a spare window for parts...

Verna · June 2020

pool noodles are frequently used pool noodles or frequently used on the sides, corners and bottom edge of the side and sometimes the front window.

Denny16 · June 2020

The widows are Acrylic material, not polycarbonate, so not as tough as a polycarbonate window would be. Acrylic is a little softer.
cheers

jimcenname · June 2020

I bought some super-glue type stuff today, I'll try that tomorrow after it stops raining.

tabiphile · June 2020

Super glues (cyanoacrylates) are not typically used for bonding acrylics. Acrylics need to be fused. A quick set super glue will simply bond to the surfaces and create a very weak join that will fail (been there, done that). Weld-on 4 has the charactristics that are required. Be careful applying it. It's a two step process that requires applying some to one surface, assembly and then allowing capilary action to draw the adhesive into the broken area using a special needle tipped applicator bottle.

falcon1970 · June 2020

I agree with @tabiphile--although I didn't know about the chemistry involved. Superglue always seems to have a fragile joint.
Bondic works similar to what @tabiphile said about Weld-On 4 except it seems easier to use. Just run a line of bondic along the edge to be joined, put the pieces together, and then use the supplied UV light to cause a bond.

db_cooper · June 2020

Glad to see you are trying to repair. Murphy says if you replace it now, the new window will get broken within a year. If you repair, the window will outlast the trailer. 😁

jimcenname · June 2020

@falcon1970 and @tabiphile: Thanks for the heads up about fixing Acrylic.

jimcenname · June 2020

Upon further research I find that Acrylic bonding or welding agents contain Methylene chloride which is bad stuff. It's also used in paint strippers and HD and Lowes won't carry any product with Methylene chloride because it is so bad.

Marceline · June 2020

jimcenname said:

Upon further research I find that Acrylic bonding or welding agents contain Methylene chloride which is bad stuff. It's also used in paint strippers and HD and Lowes won't carry any product with Methylene chloride because it is so bad.

Judging by the TAP Plastics website this might be an issue specific to SoCal.
Yes, it's nasty stuff and you will have to ensure good ventilation.
https://www.tapplastics.com/product/repair_products/plastic_adhesives/weld_on_16_cement/132
https://www.tapplastics.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=69_123&product_id=608
Maybe you can pick some up if you make it further north this summer.
https://www.tapplastics.com/about/locations

tabiphile · June 2020

Whatever you decide to use, acrylic must be melted to fuse. It cannot be surface bonded.

falcon1970 · June 2020

But acrylic can be chemical welded. Check with TAP plastics for the proper solvent to use for acrylic.

Marceline · June 2020

falcon1970 said:

But acrylic can be chemical welded. Check with TAP plastics for the proper solvent to use for acrylic.

I posted that info above.

I broke the corner off the window next to my entry door

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