The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Interiors Vent window repair

I think I already know the answer but I will ask anyway. My driver side vent window is missing the handle. I ordered a replacement handle. I did not even give it a thought until the new handle arrived. The stud that the handle should mount on is gone. From what I have read it should be welded on. The part that remains does not look like anything broke off. Is there a way to just replace (where would I get it) the stud or do I need to replace the entire vent window frame. cost just went from about $6 for the handle to about $90 for a new vent frame.

My thoughts would be to make a new stud for the existing frame,

Using small diameter round stock, thread the one end of the rod, and then tap the location on the window frame.

Or you could just use a small diameter rod, and drill the hole in the frame, and use JB Weld to hold it in place

If you are handy with tap and dies sets, this may work, as I had to make a new Emergency brake release rod for my 50, rather than spend to bucks on a used one. Go to a good old fashioned hardware store, and look around see what they have, that usually inspires the best in us.. Good Luck, and let us know, MIKe

I was trying to figure out a way to replace the post. It appears the post does get a lot of stress on it. It will have to be a solid mechanical connection if I can come up with a solution. I will look at ways to fabricate one.

that's why I was thinking of JB Weld, once it's set up, it's pretty firm and solid. MIke

I looked at a spare vent window frame I have, and not much "meat" on the metal portion of where it looks like the post will go. It probably worth a try though, Mike

You might want to carefully remove the handle from the other vent and look at that pivot. If IRC theres a groove for the roll pin and a flat on the end that acts as a stop. You may need to do some machining to the replacement piece before installing. I've brazed at lot of loose ones back on. A small tack of brass on the inside of the saddle with the pivot in the proper position saved a lot of vent frames. John

I have exactly the same problem. If you come up with an easy solution please let me know.

Rather than just replacing the stud, what if the full bottom section from corner to corner was replaced? A donor vehicle would be required. Maybe replacing the whole frame would be easier?

If you take into consideration what your time is worth and how much time the aggravation of fixing what you have will subtract years off the end of your life, a brand new complete assembly including glass and chrome is awful tempting.
Carl

After looking at my options and the potential for a less than desirable result I have a tendency to agree. I will probably bite the bullet and purchase a new assembly. I have been trying to maintain the spirit of the original owners of these trucks. They never threw anything away and repaired everything but you have to know when to throw in the towel.

The saddle the pivot is on is riveted to the frame. If you have a rusted out frame with a good saddle, just drill out the two rivets and install on your frame. John

try advertising for one in the "parts wanted" section. Mike