Tips on replacing Grey portlight lenses

[kito]

I posted a question earlier about installation of new Grey portlights and got some good feedback, thanks. I also purchased just the lenses on my 4 larger portlights that have the spring loaded hinges rather than the friction hinges on the smaller ones. Obviously I need to punch the pins out from the frame hinge. Just looking for tips or "lessons learned" on getting these pins out. Knowing me, I'll end up busting off the frame hinge trying to punch them out

 

[srhummer]

I replaced the lens on two of my portlights (bought from SBO). Process went smooth. I closed the portlight and dogged it down then used a smaill nail and a very small hammer tapping very lightly to push the pin. Once I had a section sticking out I used needle nose pliers to twist and pull slowly - removing the pin, tapping the pliers with the hammer at times. After pins wee out undogged and removed old lens. Put new lens in place and dogged it down lightly. Used the fingers to place the pin with the new lens in place then tapped very easily at end using the nail as a set for last little bit to push the pin so the hammer did not get that close to the plastic frame. Good luck with it but doubt you will need luck!!

 

[kito]

Thanks srhummer. I got the pins and springs out this morning with no problem. Only problem is the new lens tabs needs some tweeking. Way too tight a hole plus the lens tabs need a little grinding to fit and open without binding. Probably why all the ports with spring loaded lens hinges are busted. The pin should be snug on the frame hinge but a slightly loose fit on the lens tabs to rotate on. The PO probably pounded the pin though the tight lens tabs and stress cracks occurred. The broken ones are still clear and look fairly new.

 

[Nelsonhow]

Give old lens a woo k spray of wd-40 an open and close a few times. It will
Make the pins come out easier.