Plexi-windshield

[spareparts]

i made the windshield for my 17 Mitchell with no problem, I got the plexi from the local glass shop, cut about a third over size. I left the paper backing on the plexi and made some reference lines to measure from. I used two 2X4's in a vise as a break. Using the reference line as a mark( i left a couple inches extra on the end), I clamped the plexi between them and heated the plexi with a heat gun I bought from Lowes for about $20. When the plexi became pliable, i bent it 90 degrees to form one side. Using the refernce line, I could tell how much I lost width when I bent the radius. Using that information I layed out the mark for the other side and bent it. After it was formed, I drew the cut marks on the paper for final trimming with my jig saw. I cleaned up the edge as mentioned above. I made the windshield a little oversize to allow for rubber spacers, I made the spacers by cutiing thin slices of 1/4 marine fuel hose. Pratice on a few scrap pieces before you try the big stuff.

[FELLOW-SHIP]

Boy you guys are inspiring me to try again.

FellowShip

_______________________________________________

My motto: Just for the Grins

[thehermit]

Dito! Does anyone have any pix? I am dreaming up a jig to give it a shot

[spareparts]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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

[FELLOW-SHIP]

You guys got me So re inspired to try again. I went to Lows and bought me a brand spanken new $39.95 heat gun. With adjustable temperatures set up them there Braces just like you guys said and pulled out a new piece of Lexan and Wambo success no bubbles or anything. I maid my two 90 degree bends and now got my little project done. You guys got me so inspired and pumped I’m think I might even venture out and do a new window shield after all now that I am a “PRO” and got my NEW Gun I’m looking around to see what else I can bend. Shoot after I do a window shield I might try a glass bottom boat.

Thanks Guys.


FellowShip
__________________________________________________ ________
Just for the Grins