16 replies to this topic

[cwdtmmrs]

I am going to replace the clear vinyl windows in my mid-90's Ranger II FWC. I am looking for comments on the clear vinyl used  in the newer FWC or ATC windows. Does it shrink or get stiff like the the older versions? Even as low as 50*, the older vinyl windows are impossible to use. I have samples on the way from FWC and ATC as well as several other companies who claim to have -40* "cold crack"...whatever that means in real life use. My plan first cut the old window off leaving about a 1" "tab" left at the bottom. I will cut the new window to size and sew Velcro to the side and top edges. lastly, I will stick the new window to the old window "tab" with 3M 4229 tape. The tape joint will never come apart, so I want to use the absolutely best vinyl on the planet!
 
Thanks,
CWD

 

[idahoron]

I contacted FWC about the windows possibly cracking in cold weather. They assured me that their windows would not crack. I asked because I cracked windows in an old pop up trailer.  

[dsrtrat]

Sounds like a good replacement plan.

I would leave yourself an option to replace again somewhere down the road. I have a 6 year old ATC Panther and the clear vinyl windows seem to shrink a little each year. They still close with the Velcro but I can see a replacement in the future.

The shrinking just seems to be the nature of the material from what I can tell. I have used 303 on them since new but they still shrink a little more each year. I do live in a very hot climate may be less in a cooler area.

Dsrtrat

[cwdtmmrs]

Dsrtrat, Interesting comments. I assume that the vinyl is shrinking in the heat due to plasticizer migration. The replacement plan will work and I doubt that anyone will notice. I do know how to separate the tape joint again, but it is a very difficult and tedious process. I am more concerned with cold weather flexibility. I have several samples of vinyl on the way for testing.

 

CWD

[idahoron]

Make sure you let us know how the testing goes. 

[RHarries]

I am also planning to initiate this window replacement project as my '09 hawk's windows have shrunken to the point that they no longer are closeable unless ambient temperature is 80 degrees.

 

what thickness of vinyl is recommended, what type of seam tape, etc.

 

I know this is an old topic, but any updates or additional recommendations would be appreciated.

 

Thanks,

[Jon R]

I would suggest you look at marine isinglass. Any marine place that does canvas work would have it. It is also available on amazon.

Edited by Jon R, 28 March 2024 - 04:52 PM.

[ckent323]

Sailrite is a supplier and good source for canvas, vinyl and curtain materials and hardware.

Here is a link to some info on Isinglass (which is an outdated, somewhat generic term for clear window material, also spelled “eisenglass” )

https://www.sailrite...Window-Material

 

 

 

[Jon R]

Sailrite is a supplier and good source for canvas, vinyl and curtain materials and hardware.

Here is a link to some info on Isinglass (which is an outdated, somewhat generic term for clear window material, also spelled “eisenglass” )

https://www.sailrite...Window-Material

Thanks for posting that link. I had thought isinglass (or however you spell it) was a particular type of clear window material, and not just an old generic term. Also, I noted that the web page recommends the use of 303 protectant to prolong the life of clear vinyl. I thought I was supposed to avoid getting 303 on the clear vinyl. So you taught me two things today!

[ski3pin]

Thanks for posting that link. I had thought isinglass (or however you spell it) was a particular type of clear window material, and not just an old generic term. Also, I noted that the web page recommends the use of 303 protectant to prolong the life of clear vinyl. I thought I was supposed to avoid getting 303 on the clear vinyl. So you taught me two things today!

This was a new one for me also.