Alan Myers wrote:
>
> Hi listers,
>
> A couple quick questions for the collective wisdom...
>
> Has anyone had any success "clearing up" old conv. top plastic windows
> that have yellowed (or more precisely "browned") with age? The top on my
> car is in exceptionally good condition despite it's age, except for
> this.
>
> As an alternative, has anyone had just the windows replaced? I've heard
> this is possible, but have had no experience with it. Do the
> replacements look as good as the "factory installed" windows? Do they
> hold up over time?
>
>
> Alan Myers
> San Jose, Calif.
> '62 TR4 #CT17602
>
> --
> MZ
Ok, Alan, here goes...
In the June '98 issue of Practical Classics magazine (pp 54-55), there's
a very brief sidebar on how to replace windows. Since it's so short, and
my typing skills are second to none, I'll have a go at it.
"With time and exposure, plastic windows in hoods become cloudy and
opaque. Polishing with plastic polish can help a little, but all too
often a perfectly good hood is thrown away just because of cloudy
windows.
However, there is a cheaper solution: replace the windows. You should be
able to get the correct Vybak window material from a trim supplier.
Check how the existing windows are fitted. Most are welded in, and you
will have to cut away the welded join and end up with a larger window,
then stitch a reinforcing strip of hood material all the way round on
the inside to hold the new window in place. Some, like the ones in the
step-by-step pictures [sorry, my typing skills aren't THAT good - but
then, the photos in the article aren't that descriptive either], are
stitched anyway.
1. Using a sharp Stanley [utility] knife, carefully cut the stitching
holding the old window in place, and remove the old thread and the
window.
2. Cut out the new panel with sharp scissors, using the old one as a
template, and tuck it into the pocket. Use sticky tape or staples to
hold it.
3. Be sure to keep the hood flat and the plastic window secure in it's
pocket while you stitch. A heavy duty sewing machine is essential."
That's the end of the article. Not particularly thorough, but it may
provide some inspiration. Some of the terms (e.g "hood") in the above
are obviously English. Not so sure about some of the others. Does
"sticky tape" mean duct tape, electrical tape, or what? And are
"staples" the same as what we call staples? No idea - perhaps one of
our friends from the UK can shed some light.
In any case, sounds like you need access to a HD sewing machine - or pay
someone else to do it. Seems like a waste to trash an otherwise good
hood so I thought I'd send this along. Good luck.
Michael Ferguson
Vernon, CT
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