Sliding Window Restoration Tips Please?

[JamesSam]

I have decided I am going to try and get more life out of my sliding glass back window and touch it up rather than replace it. It seems possible anyway. The first time I opened my sliding window(probably a year ago) the metal sills on the glass panes that slide, came off when I tried to close them. I am guessing they just need new adhesive to stay on? I have also figured out the best way to open and close without having to pull on the metal sill as to avoid pulling them from the glass. I recently glued my rear view mirror back on and am thinking the glue for that would work great in this application metal to glass, thoughts?
Also, what if anything should I lube the groove the glass panes slide in with? They definitely do not slide with ease anymore. It seems like they definitely need some greasing. Let me know what you guys got.

 

[FireTruck1984]

Do you plan on removing the window from the truck for restoration or just try to repair it while in place? Does your window have welded seams (corners) Or is it original style that can be dismantled?

 

[brooksman9]

What about the weather strip seals, ask about those JamesSam. You know, just in case anyone else is curious.

 

[JamesSam]

Do you plan on removing the window from the truck for restoration or just try to repair it while in place? Does your window have welded seams (corners) Or is it original style that can be dismantled?

Was planning to repair in place. I don't think it has welded seams. I think it is the original window. I should have taken pictures earlier when the sun was up but here are a couple from just now.

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[JamesSam]

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[JamesSam]

The very first pic I posted is the window open about halfway so you can see the inside of the metal frame on the edge of the glass, FYI.

 

[JamesSam]

Would bar soap in the grooves be good? Or, maybe surf wax/candle wax? Jarring wax seems like it would help...

 

[squaredeal91]

Sliding windows are cool, But don't mistake them for those siding windows

 

[JamesSam]

Uuuugghhh. I can't believe I posted it as "Siding Window.."
Idiot!!!

 

[JamesSam]

Damn super computer in the palm of my hand. Can't type worth a ....

 

[squaredeal91]

No worries, I do that stuff too lol

 

[SirRobyn0]

@JamesSam I have what I think is a factory sider in my truck so it may differ a little from yours. I would not recommend lubing the slides if it's just a metal slide. Mine is metal frame and slides. Instead of rubber seals around the sliding panes it has... A material I cannot remember the name off but it's more like a fabric and gets clogged and matted from debris over the years and carefully cleaning it and brush it brings it back to life. If your slider has rubber seals I'd start by cleaning it up with rubbing alcohol and a Q-tip. Make sure you get all the way down in the crack, and get it really clean. Then I'd treat the rubber with whatever your favorite silicone spray is. I'd do all the rubber three times right then, and then I'd do it a few week later, and a few more weeks later and then forget about it. It's amazing how much that kind of treatment can bring rubber back to life as long as it isn't cracked. I would not put any kind of grease in it, because it'll attract dirt. If you slider rattles it's very likely the clasp can be tightened up to hold it shut a little tighter. Hopefully that is helpful.

 

[JamesSam]

Thank you @SirRobyn0 !!! I will give it a shot. I can definitely see that the grooves have become dusty. I will air spray them, then alcohol swipe out the rest. Once dry, I will try the silicone WD40 I have in the garage.

 

[FireTruck1984]

Was planning to repair in place. I don't think it has welded seams. I think it is the original window. I should have taken pictures earlier when the sun was up but here are a couple from just now.

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So it looks like you have an original sliding rear window.. definitely worth repairing. If you were removing it, it can be dismantled and overhauled. I just restored one and sold it to guy in New York.
Yes, the clear glass adhesive that you mentioned will work on the frame. Clean any debris from the track And lubricate. BTW those window gaskets for the factory sliders are hard to find! I hear that Precision Rubber Products has one coming soon.
Replacement latches are available.

 

[JamesSam]

So it looks like you have an original sliding rear window.. definitely worth repairing. If you were removing it, it can be dismantled and overhauled. I just restored one and sold it to guy in New York.
Yes, the clear glass adhesive that you mentioned will work on the frame. Clean any debris from the track And lubricate. BTW those window gaskets for the factory sliders are hard to find! I hear that Precision Rubber Products has one coming soon.
Replacement latches are available.

Thanks @FireTruck1984 !!!