In a message dated 19/05/2005 12:06:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:

Well,  I've never actually pulled the side windows, but as far ar I can
tell it  looks about the same as a windshield. I would probably rate it
s 4, but  then I guessed that putting in new wing window assemblies
would be a 2 and  it turned out to be about a 5. I also thought
changing the 2nd gear brake  band seal on my transmission would be a 5,
and it turned out (for me) to be  at least an 11 (broke it!).  So using
my tendency to underestimate as  a guide, it's probably about a 9. If
it was ME doing it, I'd probably end  up ruining the rubber seal on the
first one before I figured out how to get  'em back in properly. Surely
there's someone here who's actually pulled a  side window, no? Anyone?

The sliding side windows are the hardest ones to  remove and install.  Due to
the metal frame the tolerance they allowed is  minimal therefore making it a
tough job to get the widow out and back in.   Pressure and perseverance and
the proper tools will get it out.  If you do  not feel capable, go to a
automotive window place, they will have the proper  tools to get it out.  Putting it
back, I use Krown rust prevention oil or a  similar product, a thin strong
nylon string in the groove and be careful at  the corners 'cause that's were it's
really a tight fit and can tear the  rubber, go slowly and make sure the
rubber lip does not hag up.  If it does  back up and try again.  Forcing it will
tear the rubber !  Liberal  lubrication on the frame and rubber is essential.
Metal tools will scratch  the paint and cause rusting in the future.  Any rust
spots should be  POR-15ed or similar while the window is out.

Cheers,

Frank  Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
_BusFusion_ (http://members.aol.com/BusFusion/bfhome.htm)  a VW Camper
camping event, Almonte, ON, June 09 ~ 12, 2005
'87 Westy, '90 Carat &  Lionel Trains
Member: _Vanagon List_ (http://www.vanagon.com/) , _LiMBO_
(http://www.bcn.net/~limbo/) , _IWCCC_ (http://www.westfalia.qc.ca/)  & _CCVWC_
(http://www.ccvwc.ca/)
Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in  the Ottawa Valley
_STEBRO/Vanagon Stainless Steel  Mufflers_
(http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/stebro.htm)
_Frank Condelli &  Associates_ (http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/busindex.html)
or  http://frankcondelli.com