My Cal 29 has 4 large windows in the main cabin that are in desperate need of replacing. Before you think, hah, this will be easy, let me explain because I already did that. I took the entire window out thinking I could open the frame and replace the polycarb 'glass' easily. Not the case. The plastic is brittle and glued together with something that will not soften or be removed without damaging the plastic frame--trust me, I took this pretty far (its not silicon based, acetone will soften it as much as the rest of the frame, alcohol won't touch it, 5200 remover doesn't work, etc.). And where the glue is, is in ridges that make it even stronger. So, I've decided its time for new windows...as I say I took trying to open the frames a little too far in one corner of one. Closed windows or opening ports? I've read the recent post here on that but it would require major modifications to the sides to get something smaller to fit that opens. They are currently ~8"*30 for the front and ~9*31 on the aft, and not square in the least--stupid aesthetics. So, the real questions: 1) Plastic or aluminum frames? What are people preferences and results? 2) Plastic (polycarb or acrylic) or glass panels? It seems polycarb held up well but what are peoples preferences? 3) Who do you order these from? Where have people had good luck? thanks
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You should be able to find a plastic
supplier in Seattle. With the windows out make paper patterns of the holes. Some of the newer boats use frameless plastic windows fastened with SS bolts and bedded in some high tech compound that holds forever and won't leak in Noah's flood. I chose to get rid of the picture windows and install Lewmar opening ports. That involved a lot of fiber glass work and more than a little time. We do like the ventilation with all the windows, the fore hatch and companion open.
supplier in Seattle. With the windows out make paper patterns of the holes. Some of the newer boats use frameless plastic windows fastened with SS bolts and bedded in some high tech compound that holds forever and won't leak in Noah's flood. I chose to get rid of the picture windows and install Lewmar opening ports. That involved a lot of fiber glass work and more than a little time. We do like the ventilation with all the windows, the fore hatch and companion open.
Mark Plastics in Corona California.
Jed: Find Mark Plastics in Corona Ca. I think that they have the direct replacments for your boat. Mark will give you the low down on fixed ports.
Jed: Find Mark Plastics in Corona Ca. I think that they have the direct replacments for your boat. Mark will give you the low down on fixed ports.
Use Plexiglass
Do not use Polycarbonate (Lexan). It will craze like mad. But, if you insist on using Polycarbonate, send me an e-mail and I'lll make you a deal on some. I have some extra. The correct adhesive is Sikaflex 295 UV. This product is designed to seal plexy windows to fiberglass boats. http://home.wmis.net/~dhapp/page1.html
Do not use Polycarbonate (Lexan). It will craze like mad. But, if you insist on using Polycarbonate, send me an e-mail and I'lll make you a deal on some. I have some extra. The correct adhesive is Sikaflex 295 UV. This product is designed to seal plexy windows to fiberglass boats. http://home.wmis.net/~dhapp/page1.html
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