Question about remodeling windows....

[coolchange]

I had to remove the long plexiglas windows on both sides of the boat ...they were cracked and leaking....I was planning on having new plexi. cut at TAP and re-installing exactly as removed ..but have an idea, which is often a mistake..so here goes

The factory method was to put the plexi onto the hull with tape then fasten with an extruded metal channel all the way around....probably some caulk involved as well. What I am thinking is to cut the plexi an overall extra inch all around (to cover screw holes) putting it on the hull with 2 sided tape and then caulking with 4200 and eliminating the extruded metal.... the tape would stand back far enough to allow the caulk to flow behind the glass and seal the edge.

This is how the windows on the last boat were done and I think this is common on newer boats but am only working from geezer memory.

1. any reasons this wont work?
2. any suggestions on technique or materials ( assuming you agree it will work.

Thanks.

Sounds like the way car windshields are installed these days as well. You can get black 4200 as well can't you?

[Tedster]

Yes it nows comes in both colors. Ted :D

Earlier Bayliners did not use the metal channel. The windows were only held in with tape. I think if you prep the area well and use the correct kind of tape, it will work fine.

Many plastic manufacturers recommend against 5200 or 4200 and suggest silicone instead.

BTW, Rich Nimms (sp?), who works at Bayliner, sells the windows and the tape. I bought a window for my previous boat from him and it cost less that anywhere else. He may be able to cut one with the additional material added all around. I think his number may be in the BOC FAQ.

Raul

[coolchange]

Thanks for the information...I wonder if you know what the "correct tape' would have as its differentiating features? TAP has a 2 sided foam, West has nothing...the stuff that came off was a thin 2 sticky-sides black foam.

Do you know why 4200 might not be recommended? ( I would assume it has to do with reaction with the resin in Plexiglas)

TED: is this how the newer boats are or is the glass in some kind of trough so that the sides are smooth.

[Tedster]

3M makes a two sided tape that you should look into. Look it up on their website. The Bay's windows of today are put into an aluminum frame and then that is screwed and sealed into the fiberglass.

Ted :D

I think 4200 and 5200 have an adverse effect on some plastics. My previous boat had a hatch with a warning right on the plastic hatch frame that said not to use anything but silicone on it.

The correct tape has been discussed a few times in the BOC site. You may ask there and see if somebody knows. I think it's a 3M product as Tedster mentioned but I don't know which one. It's definitely not the stuff available at Home Depot.

Raul

[Tedster]

I would check with WM or BW or Fisheries esp. for the tape. If you can find it you wont need 5200 or 4200. Ted :D

[chuck4788]

The tape may also be an automotive item which means you probably get it from a window installer or an auto paint supply store. I would first check out 3Ms website.

OH YEAH!

Just watched them install a car windshield using that butyl rubber tape and black butyl ruber adhesive. I'd bet you're onto something there,