GT rear window attachment

[smyrnaguy]

I've got the bodywork completed on my car now and will soon apply paint. I first need to figure out how to attach the rear window. I want to be able to remove it quickly but I don't want to use any screws through the plexiglass. So those hook-clip things are out. The window has to be removable so I can get a surfboard in the car. Any ideas?

[brianboggs]

I dont think you have any choice but to drill through and use rubber grommets to insulate from the screws.

[smyrnaguy]

I think that screw holes are going to be the starting places for cracks. I was thinking about wrapping the edge of the plexi with a rubber lined metal channel. I could tuck the rear under a couple of "V" shaped clips attached to the back deck and utilize 3 threaded posts attached to the channel at the top. This way 3 thumb nuts could remove the window. I don't (at this moment anyway) intend to attach anything directly to the door plexiglass either. I'm using bearclaw latches so there's no way the plastic could hold up to the stress. I'll use a steel substructure and glue the plexi doorskin to it. I'm hoping for less warpage, more integrity and better security.

[Jeff Troy]

Hi, Smyrna,

Can't recall if you have fastback or Sundowner. Probably not much you can do with the fastback because of size and weight, but my Sundowner and gull attach system is still the best I've seen.

I use upholstered straps that are wrapped and sewn the catches on the windows where the snap clips would normally attach. At the end of each strap is a snap button, like the type used on convertible tops and tonneau covers. The car side of the connection has nothing more than a snap stud mounted to accept the cap on the strap.

This system completely eliminates the ruty clips, torn clothing and rattling clips that otherwise go with the Bradley kit parts.

Note the following two items:

1. You must sew a length of non-stretch flexible plastic or other substance inside the straps to prevent stretch.

2. The snap buttons inside the car for the side straps on the Sundowner must be mount on wedges to result in an angle that keeps the snaps secure. If you don't do this, the snaps will simply unsnap and you'll lose the window.

I've used this system on my gulls and Sundowner since 1994. It's positively and absolutely flawless. Drawings for my upholsterer and numerous photos are on the CD.

P.S. No pearling!

Warmest...

[smyrnaguy]

That's a great idea. I have the Sundowner by the way. I'll bet I could use a wide velcro band as well perhaps. I have a sewing plant at my disposal too. Sad I didn't think of that.

[killswitch0201]

Anyone have pictures of some examples? I grasp the concept but I am more of a visual kinda guy.

[Zmud]

I used screws and hinges and 10yrs later no cracks.

Attachments:

[Zmud]

and I also have a rear window gasket kit for sale. its brand new, bought it from sunray.

[smyrnaguy]

Feb 20, 2010 20:51:01 GMT -5 Zmud said:

and I also have a rear window gasket kit for sale. its brand new, bought it from sunray.

How much shipped to 28579?

[dhasler]

Gotta give props to ZMUD. I copied the way he did it and 2 years later, no cracks as well!

[Zmud]

I would like to get $40+5 shipping for the window gasket. Let me know if you want it. in the pic it looks gray but thats the powder they put on it to stop from drying out. it is a black gasket.

Attachments:

[Zmud]

gasket around my back window

Attachments:

[smyrnaguy]

I'll take the gasket. How would you like payment? Paypal or snail mail? PM me details. Thanks

[killswitch0201]

Anyone ever make their own rear window out of plexiglass or lexan?