How to Replace a Window on a Truck Shell
Camper shells are convenient and handy. You can put all different types of things in them, and it keeps the bed and its contents protected from the elements. But if a window gets broken by an errant rock or a thief, it needs to be replaced. Fortunately, it's not very difficult to replace, and can be done with a little help from the manufacturer, a friend and some hand tools. For this example, we're going to replace the side window and back window on a Leer 100XQ on a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, but these steps are fairly universal.
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Things You'll Need
- 1/4-inch ratchet and socket set
- Replacement window from the shell manufacturer
Instructions
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Replacing the Side Window
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1
Climb inside the bed and look at the window you're about to replace. If your shell is equipped with a screen, pull it off with your hands by prying it off at the corners.
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2
Unbolt the perimeter screws around the window using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket set. There are a lot of screws here, so work your way around and take your time. Once you've got just a few screws remaining, ask your friend to hold the window--or remaining window frame--in place so it won't fall to the floor.
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3
Remove the window from the shell once all of the screws are removed.
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4
Place the replacement window into the shell, and have your assistant start to bolt the window back into place from the inside of the shell. Continue bolting it in place until you're done.
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5
Place the screen back onto the window as it was from the factory.
Removing the Rear Window
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6
Pop open the back window on the shell and drop down the tailgate.
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7
Look inside around the roof area where the window is mounted to the shell. There are four bolts that hold it in place.
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8
Unbolt the window using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket set while your friend holds the window steady. Once the bolts are removed, the window can be removed from the vehicle.
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9
Bolt the replacement window in place while your friend holds it in place. Do not tighten the bolts all the way tight yet, as it may still need more adjustment.
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10
Close the window and check the fit of the window on the inside and out. It needs to have a watertight seal, but also not rub on the paint. Fortunately, the mounts on the window are slotted, so it can be moved in or out as need be. Once it's in place, tighten it down using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket set.
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