Hey all. I was just wondering if anybody could point me in a direction to look for lexan windows? I want to put my car on a diet and these would great.

 

If you have TAP Plastic in your area, they'll cut anything to order. Are you going to go with a CF bonnet & boot as well?

 

Try Racing Shields Here is the pricing for the MINI that they sent me
Front windshield $352.73 (oversized) & $382.73 (stock trim)
Rear window $384.73 (need to specify if you want it oversized or stock trim)
Shipping will very with the size of box. I may be able to ship it UPS but sometimes UPS is not the cheapest route depending on the box size
Thank you,
Stephanie sriffel@scican.net
Shields Premier Windscreens

 

Looks like it is less than 1/2 the weight of glass! It's also stronger, and "clearer" as well. http://racingshields.com/index_files/pcvsglass.htm

What does the stock windshield weigh?

I've had a cracked windshield for over a year... and I think I'll replace it with this... and it's cheaper.

From my experiences though, it does scratch a lot easier. A worthwhile trade-off, I feel.

 

Shoot me a PM if you decide to have one built. I am in the market for a new windshield as well.

-Brian

 

Brian, I will!

I have a Pinto windhshield (for a kit car) somewhere, and I believe it is at least 20 pounds, maybe closer to 30...

Heading out of the country for a couple of weeks, but I want to pursue this upon my return. Tired of looking at that dang crack!

 

Sheilds has the patterns for the Mini.

Factory windshield is 'about' 18.5 lbs
Sheilds 1/4" is 12.5 lbs

Factory side window is 8 lbs 3 oz.
Sheilds 1/8" is 3 lbs

Don't forget that front windsheild needs added metal fastners and braces to be race legal.

 

....and these are approved for off road use only.

 

Does the install expertise needed for such a windshield entail anything different than that of glass? Thinking of ordering one (not over-sized) and I just want to make sure that a local installer will be up to the task...

Still traveling, but want to get this ordered a few days before I return...

 

Tony, it should be able to be installed just like factory if that's what you are thinking. I would caution you on doing this on a street car if you use the wipers a lot. You also need to be careful what you clean it with.
Are you planning the install by yourself?

 

Heya Greg. I read their website regarding maintenance, like not to use Windex or window cleaner on the inside (anti-fog), or certain chemicals on the outside. They say that it is wiper-resistant, or somethig to that effect... I just know that ever since I used Rain-X, I haven't had a need to use my wipers, and this stuff is apparently better, so I don't forsee the wipers being an issue....

The thought crossed my mind to install it myself, but I wasn't sure. I was planning to have a professional do it. But, that said, if relatively easy, I wouldn't mind tackling it. I've worked with this material before as I built a couple aquariums out of acrylic, including my current 135 gallon tank. Installing a windshield, and the concerns that go with that... I just don't know.

Let me know your thoughts! Thanks much.

 

It's kinda a tough job Tony, getting the old windshield off is not so easy.
Also, I've been told that rainX does not work that well on these lexan windshields. You should check into that.
I have this protective coating on mine, but as you know I haven't used it yet. I have to think though that it won't last forever and that, like all other racing wind screens I've seen, it will get pretty scratched up with road debris.

 

Also, I think I heard from you, or maybe it was Dr O via Keith, that the sealant used to mount the windsheild plays a role in rigidity, so proper selection is prudent...

I just know that a new windshield (glass) will cost about 100 - 200 bucks more, and probably just develop a crack again. I see it as an experiment worthy of trying, with the weight loss being an added bonus for sure...

In Taiwan now though... heading to Singapore and Malaysia next. I've gotta get these posts in while my wife is not looking!

 

I sent an email to Racing Shields last night, and got a reply already! Answers to some questions:

1. It does come with instructions. Some feel comfortable working with it and some do not.
2. I do not know of any special shops and some glass installers know how and some do not know how to install.
3. We recommend that you use RTV Silicone to secure it with. Nothing else will stick to our SUPERCOAT™.

Do you know thickness you are interested in? Pricing is attached and if you have any questions, please contact me.

Just thought I would share... Thinking about doing it myself.

 

Does anyone know a good place to get rear lexan window stateside ?