Windscreens

[patrick.hobbs]

I've just replaced the windscreen on my Roadster.
I had one cut at Roman Glass at Stroud. It cost £27.91. I have the template if anyone wants one I can post a copy.

[john12]

Re: Windscreens

Hi Patrick,
Sounds like you got a result at £27.91, did you fit it yourself, I would be interested to know how hard a job it was? I would like to take you up on your kind offer of a template,my address is Woodstock, Cedars Close,Chalfont St Peter, Bucks, SL9 0 LL, I will refund the postage.

thanks and best regards

John

[lil_red_roadster]

Re: Windscreens

Result...! Just be careful chaps - there are at least 2 different types of Roadster screen. Not entirely sure what the differences are but I know from experience that mine (chassis 2882) was a "T2" type, which was, I think, the lesser known flavour...you'll need to make sure the template does actually fit rather than buying blind.

Cheers

Jez

[b_caswell]

Re: Windscreens

There are at least 3 types of screen for the roadster as my 1985 hybrid had a type 3. I hope Patricks screen was auto grade as domestic laminated glass isnt strong enough to resist penetration which is a standard test spec for normal car screens. Its all to do with the number and strength of the laminate sheets in the sandwich.

[listerjp2]

Re: Windscreens

I think the only way to go is take the screen out and use it as a template to get it made up. I went to RAC Autowindscreens, not the cheapest but they will cut the glass so that the kite mark is showing and will make sure about the number of laminates.

[FranklinLeicester]

Re: Windscreens

This is something I shall have to do before long. I have not attempted the job because it looks as if you have to dismantle the car to do it, or am I looking for problems that aren't actually there? Can you give a brief run-down on how it's done.

[b_caswell]

Re: Windscreens

Briefly you have to remove the lower clamp that is bolted to the bulkhead and carries the wipers then any fittings, cables or wiring that is within about 2 inches of the bottom of the screen have to be removed to allow the screen to slide down and the new one to go back. Fortunately you can now buy silicone sealer eater that helps to release the old screen.
Fitting the new screen:- I found that by using about 6 one inch pieces of nylon fuel pipe slit along its length and pushed over the edges of the screen and mount up dry. Then you can go round both sides carefully with a good grade of sealer I used sikoflex and a wet finger. Some people find masking up first a help but I just got into a mess and used white spirit to clean up.

[FranklinLeicester]

Re: Windscreens

Ohhhh, I see now! I thought it came out from the top complete with the frame.

[b_caswell]

Re: Windscreens

Ah just aswell you asked then. The screen frame on the roadster is part of the chassis and actually serves as a roll over bar. If you do decide to do it take loads of pictures then we can have an article for Pit Stop from you on how its done.

[dave]

Re: Windscreens

Hi Adrian,
I have just had one cut at my local glass merchants but am now a bit worried about Bens post about the suitability. it has the kite mark. Has yours any refernce numbers on so that i can compare with mine. if not i will have to contact RAC windscreens and take mine along for an inspection before i fit it.(was hopefully to be done next weekend if i get the oil leak fixed in the engine tomorrow)
Dave

[listerjp2]

Re: Windscreens

Hi dave, sorry but it doesn't have any exterior numbers just the kite mark. Just a point, I tried the nylon fuel pipe trick and the screen kept slipping down before I had chance to put the clamp in so instead I used the tried and trusted method suggested by Marlin - around 6 old style wooden pegs taken apart and used as wedges on either side of the screen while I put the silicon in and put back the lower clamp. When you have done this take the pegs away and just fill in the gaps left with more silocon. Remember the screen should just sit in the surround and should not be under any tension/preasure - unlike modern day cars where it forms a large part of the strength of the car. Good luck and yes keep us informed. P.S. you not to far away from me so if you are having problems give me a bell on 07809 403112 and I might be able to help.

[b_caswell]

Re: Windscreens

Have a look at top of Cabrio forum as some ref to numbers there.
If the screen slides down tie a piece of string round the middle with a bow at the top of the frame then once the clamp is in position you can remove the string. Either way make sure you have a stock of clean cloth BEFORE you start!

[dave]

Re: Windscreens

Adrian, do you have a contact name and number where you got the windscreen cut? i have phoned RAC and had no success so far, given a number which just rings and left a msg at the "Plant" section at the head office(no obtained from the Basingstoke branch)but no reply from them as yet.
I checked the BS number on mine and it refers to the Building regulations, so not going to use it. How much was the approximate cost to get the Autoglass one cut?

Thanks
Dave

[listerjp2]

Re: Windscreens

I have tried the number I have and got the same thing. You could try Price Auto Glazing in Slough 0500 811611, last year would have cost you £88.13 incl VAT. They will need a template. Hope this helps. Adrian

[dave]

Re: Windscreens

Thanks Adrian will try there as well, and try again on the other numbers. Dave