Window Replacement

woodster · Jul 15, 2014

JourneyPatch said:
I have a 1979 S2 11.0. We are looking to replace our windows this coming off season.
Looking for advice and resources in taking on this project, like materials, vendors,
any advice is welcomed, etc
Thanks,
Ed in Chicagp

there is a 13 page letter from s2 that tells about this i think its page 9 in that letter and from my experiance on my boat it has been very helpful to me

woodster · Jul 15, 2014

JourneyPatch said:
Woody I do appreciate the info - S2 still in Michigan?

as far as i know they are but they are building some kind of marine buoys now

search for the letter and you will find it and it explains how to contact them

it is written in a comical and testy manner so read it with an open mind

Mark Maulden · Jul 15, 2014

They're not going to help u out if u call them. It's up to you or have it done. The "letter" explains how it was done new. If u try it, remove the outer bead and do a tracing of the current windows for size/shape. They are all somewhat different..a plastics retailer should be able to cut them..

BobM · Jul 15, 2014

Key is you must sand the sealing edge or it won't. I looked at an S2 while nice new windows...laying all over the deck...

Mark Maulden · Jul 15, 2014

Very, very important!!

BobM · Jul 16, 2014

I have been toying with the concept of a hybrid approach, using black butyl tape in the frame then caulking around it to trynto avoid the mess, but given that the originals lasted 30 years it is hard to question that longevity.

Bob McKee · Jul 20, 2014

Look in this S2owners.com forum in;

Boat Information
Owner Modifications
S2 9.2A Window Installation

Several years ago I posted a write up on how I replaced the windows on my S2 9.2A with 3/8" Plexiglas, 1/8" neoprene glazing tape, bolts, neoprene lined washers and T-nuts. This first time, 6 years ago, I used 1/4 Plexiglas and the windows eventually cracked, never did leak. I don't agree that the original factory installation method is a good one. Too many years dealing with airplanes, I don't trust an adhesive only method of installation in this application (yes, I know the new airplanes are composite), I want bolts or screws for mechanical fastening. The write up has one photo for reference.

MisterBilge · Jul 27, 2014

Letter from S2

woodster said:
there is a 13 page letter from s2 that tells about this i think its page 9 in that letter and from my experiance on my boat it has been very helpful to me

I had a link to that letter, which no longer works.
Is anyone able/willing to post a working link or copy/paste?
Great info.

woodster · Jul 27, 2014

MisterBilge said:
I had a link to that letter, which no longer works.
Is anyone able/willing to post a working link or copy/paste?
Great info.

i have it in my file but don't know how to get it to post on here and can't seem to copy and past for some reason ...sorry

woodster · Jul 27, 2014

try this http://impliedconsent.us/Documents_files/S2 info letter.pdf

MisterBilge · Jul 28, 2014

Bingo!!!!!

woodster said:
try this http://impliedconsent.us/Documents_files/S2 info letter.pdf

I owe you a SOOOOOOOOOOOTHING libation, Amigo.

MODS
Would you consider pinning/sticky/whatever above link. Lots o' good poop in it.

Scott B · Jul 28, 2014

It's also uploaded here.

http://s2.sailboatowners.com/index.php?option=com_mtree&task=viewlink&link_id=7794&Itemid=222

Bob McKee · Aug 3, 2014

Let me be perfectly clear:
There is no way in the world that I would use the factory method of installing windows/ports in any boat. The thought of trying to control that much runny, messy seal is a non starter. There are more modern and effective processes. These are our boats, not the manufacturers, we don't need to abide by any of their suggestions or methods. Use glazing tape with glue on both sides or butyl tape(best).

Look at this web site that Compass Marine puts out. There is a large article on the use of butyl tape. Also, lots of other artilcles from buffing to electrical installation.

http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/boat_projects

BobM · Aug 4, 2014

Bob McKee said:
Let me be perfectly clear: There is no way in the world that I would use the factory method of installing windows/ports in any boat. The thought of trying to control that much runny, messy seal is a non starter. There are more modern and effective processes. These are our boats, not the manufacturers, we don't need to abide by any of their suggestions or methods. Use glazing tape with glue on both sides or butyl tape(best). Look at this web site that Compass Marine puts out. There is a large article on the use of butyl tape. Also, lots of other artilcles from buffing to electrical installation. http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/boat_projects

That is member Mainesail's site. Great stuff!

BobM · Aug 4, 2014

As I said, I may try a combo of butyl tape, in black, to seal the window to to doghouse and then go to Dow 795. The only piece of data I would like is if the 795 and butyl will work together. I think I should do an experiment first to see.