Window Install Tutorial for Camper Vans
How Eco-Friendly
  • Doesn't allow nearly as much heat and cold in as larger windows, thus reducing dependency on polluting generators and shore power (which usually has a fossil fuel source).
    • Keeps interior items from heat and cold damage, thus things last longer.
General Notes
  • Can mount install tiny windows almost anywhere, but I have only mounted in high position.
  • For the Sprinter, I could not find a better window this small albeit this one opens inwardly. There are better windows (open outwardly or slides, has screen), but are too large for high roof mount. This is the only one in the world I know of and is a great deal... see links on right side.
  • Difficulty: Moderate first install, easier thereafter | Time to install: About two hours
  • Tools & parts recommended: Jig saw with good metal cutting blade, large drill bit and drill, metal cutting snippets, marker, ten 1" screws, caulk and/or butyl tape, matching interior color tape and/or fabric and glue
  • You can mount upside down (rain channel on top) but beware it will be much harder to close due to how the knobs dangle (you will fight the dangling knobs on both sides). You would also need to tilt window down and fill in upper rain channel.
  • CAUTION: May require minor vehicle frame modification; won't impact safety under normal conditions and if installed properly; install at your own discretion and risk.

Benefits of This Small, High Position Window
  • Privacy: Don't have to worry about whether you closed blinds at night, when changing, etc.; can prevent getting in trouble! (no indecent exposure)
  • Small size prevents overheating - typical of large windows - dangerous to unattended pets and children
  • Small size with 4mm glass offers better sound insulation; has large rubber seal
  • Small size prevents break-ins
  • Allows storage, appliances, etc. in lower side panel areas where large windows are traditionally installed. This more intelligent management of space is critical in campervans.
  • 4mm glass is tempered, won't scratch, can be tinted unlike Lexan, plexiglass, etc.
  • Has visors for less glare and better weather protection which leads to less cleaning; kind of makes up for opening inwardly instead of outwardly.
  • High position allows views of nature (sky and trees) more than lower mount windows which typically are views of people, cars (and window reflections), fences, asphalt, etc.
  • Only about $43 each which is incredible for such a window via Amazon Prime, links on right -->
  • Increases value of vehicle far more than cost of parts
Please disable ad-block for window links on Amazon:

for white Vans
for all van colors
Picture
Interior Pano of Four High Mount Windows
Tips
  • Mount as high as possible when using the same windows I used to allow room for knobs to dangle down in order to open.
  • Rear door frame modifications are similar and different than side and sliding door modifications. See photo differences.
  • Don't accidentally or on purposely mount upside down (rain channel and knobs on top); see reasons above.
  • Tint must be pre-cut exactly 12.2 x 4.4 to avoid bubbles. 20% shade recommended for best balance of not too light or dark.
  • Finish inside with duct type tape and/or headliner material glued.
  • Make drapes from curtain material and magnets; make screen with magnets (see install sequence photos below). Can make only one screen compatible with all windows if only open one window at a time.

Driver's Side Rear Door Install Sequence
Particularly for 2007-2018 Sprinter High Roof, but Other Vans are Similar

Sliding Door Window Install Sequence

  • This is tight: I had to cut the right side plastic of the window off to get it to fit (see 7th photo).
  • In order for the knobs to lower enough to open window, I had to use the jigsaw to cut "U" shapes under the knobs due to frame being too strong there to cut with metal cutting scissors or hammer down (see 8th photo).
  • I have enjoyed this window much better than the more traditional, much lower and larger window below it. In fact, I don't ever use the large window and ended up covering it with insulation because it otherwise gets very hot and allows noise pollution.

Custom Window Screen and Tint

  • Screen is approximately 14" wide by 6" high.
  • Consider Gorilla tape to make a frame.
  • Neodymium magnets taped on each side; consider simple screws lined up as the magnet attractant.
  • Tint size must be exactly 12.2" x 4.4" to avoid bubbling on edges and large gaps. Tint will slide a little but under top and bottom, but not sides.
  • 20% tint recommended (not too light, not too dark). May get away with reflective tint due to high roof mount, but some anal cops still may not like reflective tint however high it may be.

Sliding Door Entry Screen - Not Recommended

I tried a sliding door screen (mainly to keep bugs out and add privacy) for a year and found it to be a big annoyance more than anything. 
Disadvantages of Entry (sliding door) Screen
  • Open sliding door invites criminals of many types!
  • Open sliding door allows noise pollution inside
  • Open sliding door causes nosy people to look in, interrupt and intrude privacy
  • Causes nuisance with every entry and exit (many times every day)
  • Easily becomes misaligned or damaged: Takes up time to align and repair
  • Worsens views out windows or with door open
  • Although can keep bugs out when door open, also traps bugs inside as they can't escape
  • Makes it contrary to open and close curtain and manually lock or unlock door
Solution: High mounted window that can be opened.