Plexi-windshield

spareparts · #1 03-15-2007, 01:39 PM

no much to look at as far as a jig or fixture, just two 2X4's clamped together. I fanned the heat gun only on the area that I wanted to bend using presure from my free hand, when it started to move I pulled the heat away and bent the plexi with both hands, didn't take much pressure. I used a quick square to check and adjust the angle. Try on a few scrap pieces before you use the big piece

gigolot · #2 03-17-2007, 10:30 PM

I dropped the 1970 bowrider off at norva plastics here locally lastweek. I am doing away with the metal framework around the windshield and going with 1/2" plexi that is going to 24" high versus the factory 19" high so when I get the bimini and curtains made next month it won't feel too cramped for a normal sized person.

the price quote for fab and material was $700-$800

NoBones · #3 03-17-2007, 11:31 PM

I rest my case , you can get a truck load of scrap for $700
I would experiment on my own before spending that kind of money. I'm by no means cheap, just like doing things myself.
Ken

VirginIslander · #4 03-18-2007, 10:30 AM

Plexi seems to get exponentially harder to bend as thickness increases, especially over 1/4". .... That may be a part of why the estimate was soooooo high....

Acrylics in general are not very thermally conductive, which makes it difficult to heat the entire thickness enough to bend it smoothly, without getting the surface regions too hot and causing bubbles from outgassing.

Bending full thickness 1/2" sheet properly, takes some high dollar equipment.

I'd be looking at something in nominally 3/8" polycarbonate for the best in strength, toughness, and formability.

Darlene

eggsuckindog · #5 03-18-2007, 11:11 AM

I have a tined windshield on my 20 that I can't see out of very well with dark glasses, plus has a crack. Could I use the old one as a template for the bends ? or would that throw the sizing off too much?

thedink9 · #6 03-18-2007, 12:44 PM

Gigalot

That price quote is was over the top. I had my windshield replaced by a decent plexi shot in Ma. for $200. It was 3/8" which is plenty thick enough and he used my old one as a template. I would think you could do the same in VA.
Dink