I just replaced all my windows with oversized 3/8" acrylic versions so that I can take a punch of a wave without worrying about a window blow-in and also resolve the lingering leaks I've put up with. I went the adhesive-only route using 3M VHB tape and Dow Corning 795, but I'll save the details for another write-up.I now have a complete set of windows for a Vega, along with 25 or 30 feet of brand new gasket material. My original plan was to just replace all the gaskets, before I decided to go the acrylic route, which is why I have the new gasket material. I can't justify carrying the extra weight of the old windows, as I'm already pretty laden with supplies and spares. I was just going to leave them here on the island, or dispose of them. However, it feels wrong somehow to discard a perfectly good set of Vega windows without at least trying to find a new home for them. If anyone is in Grenada, or knows someone in Grenada, I'll be here for another week.
Need windows?
- Thread starter astroknut
- Start date
Too bad Alaska is so far away because I could use the gasket, otherwise I'm going to do the same thing you did.
I like the way the new windows turned out. They look better than the originals, even. I was originally against this approach, because I had only seen people doing it with through-hull bolts, and I just didn't like the idea of putting all those holes in my boat. When I heard about the boltless method, I was sold. I fabricated mine with simple hand-held power tools, and fitted them on the hook. It was quite a bit of work, and it would be a much faster with a band saw or a scroll saw. But it was worth it, and I feel much more comfortable about crossing an ocean now.
I have a set of Series III windows (larger then the openings) under a shed in my yard here in central FL if anyone wants them. I understand there are gaskets available out there somewhere, but I too went the acrylic route anyway.
I have a Vega and am back and forth to the island a few times a year. I really could actually use them on mine. Thy need to be redone. Especially the gaskets. Could I arrange for a friend to get them from you?LandonSent from my iPhone
Hi Gene. I live between south GA and South Fl so probably pass by you some. Have any time to chat about the acrylic route? It may be easier option, wouldn’t mind talking about t if you had some time.CheersLandonSent from my iPhone
Sure, I'd be happy to. In the meantime, here is a link to the method I used: DIY: Replacing Fixed Portlights (scroll down to "Surface Mounting") and here is a link showing some pics of my own work: Plexiglass windows for Albin Vega? followed the article precisely. My only regret is I went with 1/4" acrylic instead of 3/8". I believe 1/4" is fine for the smaller forward windows, but my gut tells me it might be a little thin for the salon.
So, the question I have is; bolts or no bolts? Dow Corning 795 is a good sealant but can it hold plexiglass windows in place offshore? The bond is only as good as the paint bond to the substrate. Opinions please,,,,,Cheers
The 3M VHB tape holds the plexi in place until the 795 cures. At that point both hold it in place. Google 3M VHB tape and look at the demos on You-Tube. 795 is used to hold windows on high rise buildings without fasteners.Fasteners are the downfall of plexi windows and should not be used.
I agree it is a good adhesive. However, as an aircraft mechanic we use fasteners and adhesive to secure plexiglass windshields and cabin windows to their frames so in case of ground impact they will stay in place. Imagine a breaking wave over the Vega's cabin top. Lots of energy to dissipate on an "adhesive to paint" surface. Is it enough without fasteners? Plexiglass fastener holes must be oversized to prevent cracking and crazing. Cheers
These windows of mine will be crossing the Pacific this year, so I'll let you know how they hold up. The VHB tape is very strong in its own right, and I saw the 795 more as a sealant than an adhesive, but it serves both roles. I sanded down the area where the adhesive as bonding to gelcoat, as I wasn't really to trust the paint on my boat.