Tsunami/Sceptre

[abl1111]

FYI:

The manufacturer of the windshields, American Marine, has an upgrade for the window latches on the Tsunami/Sceptre.

Currently all have the pull-ring that twists to lock the windows or center hatch into place.

I was re-doing my windows and had the opportunity to speak w/ Mike @ American ( a great guy, by the way ) about how I did not like these pull ring 'jobbies'. He sent me a retro kit that I installed. They are hard, durable plastic handles. The install is slightly involved, but the end-result makes those pull handles look like the pcs of #@$% they are.

If you're re-doing glass any time soon, I really recommend this upgrade ( cheap too! )

ABL

[EBEACH]

Alan,

Do you have a picture of your new latches? I'm just starting my windshields and waiting to hear back from American marine on the gaskets.

Thanks, Jim

[abl1111]

Jim,

I don't have any pix handy and my boat is not near me over the winter. I will try to get a picture though within the next week.

I can tell you however, if you are taking the glass out - you really have to do this upgrade - and the glass must be out to do it ! The original handles are really crap. The exact replacement handles are no better.

But, these upgraded handles ( and they are actual handles ) are built well, once installed are 'in there solid', have a much, much better bite and are ergonomically perfect compared to the B.S., stock rings.

I cannot emphasize enough about this great and easy upgrade.

I pulled and re-installed ( even replaced a lot of the plexi w/ glass) all the glass. It's a job, but not too bad. Easier to do in a warm climate - the rubber is more flexible.

I replaced all the gasketing, inside and out. No problem. I even put in a better rubber stopper for when the center glass is in the opened position.

Order the exact GE silicone to re-seat the glass, from Mike at American as the stuff he spec'd is very hard to find anywhere. Also, be sure that the outside gasket is seated correctly - It must have a concave form or it is not in right ( it might be in, but it is not in right unless the gasket is concaved )

The hardest part of the gasketing was cutting the angles exactly 'right' - where two gaskets meet. You"ll see what I mean. Also, when you install each gasket - really squeeze the material into the groove so that you're squeezing extra material into the area, i.e. if the length needed is 12", try to squeeze 13" of material in - it will shrink later and if you do not use more than less you will have gaps ( I have a few gaps and will be replacing those areas )

Do not hesitate to ask me anything about this - cause I've been there done that and the results are awesome.

Alan

[EBEACH]

Alan,

Thanks for your reply. I'll let you know how it works out.

Jim