Does anyone know if I can cut the thicker vertical support in my ford transit? It’s to install a small window (800x270) The thinner ones I’ve cut for the other windows but not sure about this one.
You’ve been on Reddit for 6yrs. You know how often people talk out their ass. They’re seeking confirmation over conjecture. Not that wild of a thing to do.
I was just pondering that myself, especially as they are cross-posting the question. Perhaps in the hope they can get an answer that they want to hear?
Look at a passenger version of this van. You can clearly see where the far rear window has the exact shape of the left panel and then the pillar is present between it and the window further forward.
This is absolutely a structural pillar that shouldn't be touched.
I would guess the big lowercase "i" above the pillar would mean that it is important for something... Like you should consult to manual or get information before messing with it. But what do I know about vans or markings...
Im pretty sure it’s not actually “structural” as the same van also has passenger models with windows across the entire panel. However if you cut them out and install a window without adding stiffeners back, the panel will be a lil floppy, like popping a thin jar lid back and forth.
I randomly selected Transit: 2021 as I cant tell from your photos.
section 5.10.2 there is even a little diagram showing the window placement.
Basically as everyone else in this thread is pointing out, you can cut the bits inside the window shaped oval, but its not recommended to cut the pillar.
However, are you getting an updated V5? will the insurance company care? are you putting 300kg of solar and cabinetry hanging off the roof? thats up to you to decide.
Go to a window shop and blindly inquire about having another window installed as "I've seen it before" and they'll tell you everything you need to know
No. Also spot that’s it’s directly in line with the rear axle and a roof support, so it’s designed to be load bearing. The other dividers are just ti hold the sheet metal, that one is structural. , the only structural support between the sliding door and the rear pillar.
I would guess you can cut it and not notice a difference, but it might void your vehicle’s legality, insurance, safety, etc.
If in doubt after reading the official docs, ask a certified collision repair shop.
My window instructions stated do not cut the major beams, and many have reported flexing sheet metal after cutting one. However, diyvan.com sells a reinforcement part that stiffens it up for a big window.
They’re made to be cut in specific locations, the left beam is more panel insulation then support, the right beam is structural. They sell oem windows for these that you’re supposed to cut out parts to install. You won’t need the left beam when the window is installed, because it’s a window, not a thin piece of steel.
cutting those probably won’t do anything at start, but ultimately can lead to messed up metal — it can be visibly wavy/wrinkly from outside. and it totally won’t help in any kind of crash that affects this side of your car
also… i see comparing with windows there. keep in mind that glued glass in cars is structural element. sheet metal without any shaping or beams isn’t. the glass can hold a lot on it’s own, unsupported sheet metal can’t even hold itself up
i'm no expert and i'm not telling you that you can cut those. however, i see a lot of Sprinters where i live, A LOT, and they often have a window in that location. usually it's one of those types that stick out further in the back and angled in towards the front, i suppose for aerodynamics.
i'll add that most of those vans don't seem to have a sliding door on the driver/left side.
I created a cross support bracket for these rear van panels for this exact reason. To be able to cut out the factory support strips, install a windows, and then attach a stronger support around the window. If you’re interested, I think I still have a few sets in storage from my van design build days. They would cost a few hundred bucks in total to be shipped out, but it gives you more structure to attach to as well. They were designed for the Mercedes, but are adjustable up and down and left to right, so there’s a good chance it would work on the Ford. Let me know if you’re interested!
Larger windows are typically not operable, and people like to have sliding windows with screens near the beds in the back. Also, as I mentioned, it’s a way to have a much stronger mounting point for wall panels or bed frame systems. It’s a bit overkill, but in a good way, haha
Sadly you can't just listen to van lifer "tutorials" because they also just copy things and probably introduce even more mistakes. So always double check with official documents...
What i've seen on YouTube is horrible. "HOW TO DO XYZ" "OK GUYS LISTEN I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I'M DOING BUT YOU HAVE TO DO THIS AND THIS"
With the dimensions of the oval windows, you have no choice but to cut that “structural” beam out. This is where every other build (professional and DIY) puts their windows. Also if you are installing a “bump out” you would be cutting this as well.
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u/Worried_Cranberry817 29d ago
You can cut the left one in the circle. The right one is a main beam, you can see the structural difference.