Camper shell window conversion.

Hey TW world!

I currently have a camper shell for my truck with sliding windows on the side, however I would love to convert it to using utility panels that flip up.

below is a pic of my green shell, and a picture from google of what I want it to be.

Has anyone done this type of conversion? Or know of any “how to” info I could use as a guide?

I’ve been wanting to try this for a while but don’t want to ruin my shell if I dick it up.

thanks!!

 

I would think that you would have to have a custom-made aluminum frame with hinges (for the solid panel) since the glass is surrounded only by the rubber seal. You certainly could do it, but to build your doors, you would have to be well-versed at fiberglass work. Note that every-single-corner on your side windows has a unique radius too, so you would need to make a rather exact template to match them. Not an impossible task, but it would be a long process if you wanted it to look professional.

 

contact the manufacturer of the shell and see if they have the utility doors already, could be an easier swap

 

I ordered the flip up windows as an option on my topper, many years ago. They are held in by the metal frame of the window on the outside, and a metal band that is screwed into that outside frame, from the inside. Basically, it sandwiches the fiberglass between two pieces of metal. Adding them after the fact might only involve cutting the opening to fit the window. BUT, if the present opening is larger, it would be nearly impossible. I have the feeling that mine are not as long as the slider window that would have come on mine, but not sure about height. You might make a template of your present window or at least take comprehensive measurements to look for ones out of a salvage/craigslist one. By the way, to buy them from the manufacturer, is about $300 per window.

 

Post this question to the tonneau-covers-caps-and-shells section for more TW Bropossible experiences
https://www.tacomaworld.com/forums/tonneau-covers-caps-and-shells.198/

 

Nevermind you already have lol

 

I bought my camper and wished I had ordered them like that. So much more convenient when your on the trail to just open the Windoors vs climbing in the truck.