How to replace rear GQ sliding windows

[mikalong]

I need to replace the sliding window frames in my GQ. Can anyone tell me how or provide a link to a site that shows how.

Had a quote to replace with fixed glass (Windscreens O'Brien) for $1000. Definately not an option.

Thanks

[Peter @ Aawen4x4]

I take it you actually want to replace with NEW or at least better SLIDING WINDOWS? Is that the case?

Or are you after replacing them with fixed glass like this thread?

http://www.4wdmonthly.com.au/forum/f43/gq-sliding-window-replacement-35725/#post517040

I think that the fixed glass might be the best option if you don't need or intend to use the rear seats ever, but those sliding windows do come in handy if you have kids, and if you ever need to get into the back when the car is fully packed!

I am looking at replacing the glass with metal hatches, sorta like van or caravan hatches, so that I can have them sealed for driving, but open vertically like a tailgate window when I need to get at the gear in the back! Check out the caravan and canopy places. It's a lot cheaper than you think, and the custom guys can use the same hole as the fixed glass does, without the need to cut more, or to fit a panel to carry the hatch! It all fits in just like the OE fixed glass windows, but it's a lift up solid hatch! Never break one of those fixed side glass windows again!

Oh, yeah, the fixed glass windows are quite succeptible to shattering due to body flex, shattering due to being hit by a stone from passing vehicles, and shattering due to stone chips getting moisture in them then freezing the next time it gets cold!! All make for annoying trips when you can't get a repair done for 8 weeks!! Plastic Windscreens don't last that long, neither do VB Cartons (empty of course)!! I shoulda kept the cans and hammered them flat, then stitched them together, that would've made a better temporary window! BTW, every time mine's been broken it has been the LH side!?

Cheers!

[Pil]

I saw something on another thread somewhere about replacing the rear sliding windows with lockable top-hinging windows. This is similar to what Peter mentioned, but instead of using metal hatches to replace the existing windows, what about using perspex or glass with a locking handle like in a ute canopy? I dont know about availability and cost, but I thought I'd mention it. I cant recall exactly where I read it, but it seemed like a pretty good idea, and when funds are available I'll probably look at doing it to my GQ.

[mikalong]

Thanks

The frames of the current rear sliders are completely rusted out I am considering my options.

I don't have the 3rd row of seats so maybe fixed glass will be the answer though I like Peter's idea of the hatches.

[TexGQ]

The hatches soundsike a ripper idea Peter, where have you been checking to get them done. My only concern would be how secure are they from theft?

[GUJohnno]

Go to http://www.gqpatrol.com/
There's a link on there about replacing the frames. It's easy to do, about 1/2 an hour.

[Peter @ Aawen4x4]

The hatches soundsike a ripper idea Peter, where have you been checking to get them done. My only concern would be how secure are they from theft?

They are actually MORE secure from theft than the OE sliding windows (maybe about as good or marginally better than the fixed glass windows!) Think about it, a steel (or fibreglass/perspex/whatever) hatch that is secured with lockable latches in a couple of places. And it's not embedded in a flexible canopy, it's fixed in a rigid frame body!

There are a few people out there who make/do this sort of stuff: caravan window makers, Ute Canopy manufacturers, shelving and access system designers and manufacturers, etc. They all do this sort of thing, and have a vast range of options! You can get just about any form you like, and then some!! And they are a lot cheaper than the OE windows CAN be too!!

Enjoy!