I want to make a screen insert for the rear window for camping, so that I can roll the rear window all the way down and still be protected from the bugs. I created a first prototype, but I believe it is too flimsy for my liking. I used copper tubing, designed for the back of refrigerators. It was around $20 for the tubing from Home Depot, and it was extremely easy to bend with my hands. I then took regular window screen mesh and draped it over, then started sewing around the border of the copper tubing.

The problem I am having is that the copper tubing is way too thin. I believe it is the 3/8" thickness, and I am able to push it into the seal that the window rides up/down in. I believe I am able to get a good seal, but aesthetically it is not very pleasing.

I want to get some other viewpoints as to what I could use for this border. I was thinking about going up one more size, to the larger bendable copper, but I am afraid that I will run into the same problem and it will be too easy to bend out of shape. Any ideas?

For the side windows, I bought these products off of Amazon:

Window Shades

After doing a test fit, they seem to be a pretty good solution for the back windows. I have not "field tested" them yet so I can't attest as to how good they will keep bugs out.

Bump - anybody? I can't be the only one wanting to sleep with the windows down and keep the bugs out!

Here's a discussion on how to keep bugs out of the rear windows (not the back one).

Window Screens

you could get something like 1/2" steel tube and probably bend it by hand to form it to pop into the rear rear window seal, then wrap it in house window screen with a strap or handle to pull it back out.

Most hardware stores sell window screen in rolls or by the foot.

here is a window screen i created for my jeep a while back....it was a pain to do, but i'm not too good at making stuff, so others might find it easier.

basically all i used was screening material, black RTV, and magnetic stripe. i made these for my side windows, but would work for the rear. right now i have nothing for my rear for the 4runner, but bought something similar for the sides, to the link above. hope this gives you some ideas.

I love your idea- super simple.

How strong are the magnets? If you were to place a piece of felt or something on the inside edge to protect the paint, would it still hold?

the magnets were strong enough to hold the screen, but probably not too much weight. not sure what you mean by the felt idea, it should scratch the paint at all.

I am thinking of using the "frames" from collapsible windshield screens. They seem to bend to about a three inch degree radius pretty easily. I've not decided between cutting the sun reflecting parts out and replacing with screen, or just using the rods and making the whole thing. Then they would just fit into the weather stripping where the window is when it's up.