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Windows hard to open

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
I have 2 windows, where the bottom half slides up.
When I squeeze the pins and lift up about a 1/2", it stops.
It is then very very hard to move the next approx. 1/2" and then goes on up.
My first thought was frozen seals, but the last time I tried them, it was 59 deg.
I have searched Google, trying to come up with some sort of idea, on a fix. But nothing.
Anyone with an idea or opinion, would be appreciated. Thanks Jim
18 REPLIES 18

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
Well, it is above freezing today, and the windows are facing the sun, so I opened them.
It appears to be as you all have said, the weather stripping on the top of the sliding unit, and the bottom of the fixed unit.
Someone mentioned the stripping around the window, and I envisioned around the perimeter edge instead of the outside front. It must be the nature of this particular style window, as I can see nothing amiss.
Thanks to all. Jim

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
Nothing in the side frames, I am sure there is probably some sort of seal between the upper and lower windows. Can't see it though.
I have looked for a Brand name, but haven't found anything on these windows.
You have to really yank on them to get them up. My wife can't open them.
Won't try again until warmer weather.
The window over the sink is a crank out and has a sticker that says "Rail-Lite Division", and some numbers. I double checked and it doesn't say Trail-Lite, which is the brand of the trailer. Thanks everyone.

dadmomh
Explorer
Explorer
Possibly rubbing against the screen frame??? Our ROO was a stinker about that on the window over the dinette.
Trailerless but still have the spirit

2013 Rockwood Ultra Lite 2604 - new family
2007 Rockwood ROO HTT - new family
2003 Ford F-150
4 doggies - We support Adopt/Rescue.
Sam, you were the best!
Cubbie, Foxy, Biscuit and Lily - all rescues!

Gdetrailer
Explorer III
Explorer III
jimw606 wrote:
I hope this works for pictures. This is my hanging window.



This window should have FUZZY FELT window seals (you should see a fuzzy material in the side tracks).

Candle wax should do the trick on this type of seal but it may take some work getting the wax on the track and window frame.

You should also have on one or both sides a spring loaded counter balance (it typically is hidden under a metal cover in the non moveable top pane track). There should be a string from the spring to the bottom pane. This spring is there to hold the window open but it may also "assist" in the opening of the window.

Some sliding windows are simply a pain, I have one that gets stuck easily after sitting for the winter. Takes a few good hard pulls in the spring and then it is good for the summer..

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
I hope this works for pictures. This is my hanging window.

BurbMan
Explorer II
Explorer II
And it will be 60 again this weekend they say! Maybe post a photo of the window and where you think it's binding...guys are giving you tips based different kinds of seals, would be best to see what we are talking about.

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
bguy wrote:
old guy wrote:
I was just wondering, why if it's that cold out are you trying to open the window?


Maybe he fluffed?


Again, thanks everyone for all the Ideas.
I am not trying to open them in the cold, but was when it was warm.
We just purchased this little fellow,after selling our fifth wheel.
DW has been doing her cleanup,when it was warm.
A few days ago iy was 60 deg. here.

Passin_Thru
Explorer
Explorer
Do they still have candle wax? OOOPS! My cousin and his friends started Yankee Candle, I'll ask him.

Gdetrailer
Explorer III
Explorer III
bguy wrote:
My best guess is the at 1/2" rise you are encountering resistance between the weather strip on the sash encountering the weather strip on the frame. You may do well to clean them both very thoroughly. They are both "fur" type and when dirty or wet can make them stiffer at cold temps. Also be aware the anything you may want to use as a lubricant will act like glue on this type of weather strip. It's best to have them clean and dry.


X2

I would not use silicon or any other liquid "lubricants" since those will tend to grab and hold onto any dirt that is in the air.

Instead, use an old trick which can is typically used for hard to move zippers.. Candle wax!

Candle wax when rubbed onto the track or window will act as a dry lubricant but it will not attract and hold dirt..

bguy
Explorer
Explorer
My best guess is the at 1/2" rise you are encountering resistance between the weather strip on the sash encountering the weather strip on the frame. You may do well to clean them both very thoroughly. They are both "fur" type and when dirty or wet can make them stiffer at cold temps. Also be aware the anything you may want to use as a lubricant will act like glue on this type of weather strip. It's best to have them clean and dry.
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2011 Ram 1500 Quad Cab, 4x4, 3.55, HEMI
2009 TL-32BHS Trail-Lite by R-Vision

bguy
Explorer
Explorer
old guy wrote:
I was just wondering, why if it's that cold out are you trying to open the window?


Maybe he fluffed?
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2011 Ram 1500 Quad Cab, 4x4, 3.55, HEMI
2009 TL-32BHS Trail-Lite by R-Vision

old_guy
Explorer
Explorer
I was just wondering, why if it's that cold out are you trying to open the window?

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
Thanks everyone, I have lubed the sides of the frames, as they were tending to bind,after I passed the stopped part.
It seems to be something in the center of the window,, where the upper and lower section meet when down. After getting past this part, the windows go on up. I'll try some silicone.
When it gets above zero here, I think I will remove one window completely.
Maybe I can then see what is happening. Replacement windows are pretty pricey.

My unit is level.

jimw606
Explorer
Explorer
deleted, double post!!!!