View Full Version : Thickness of the stock FFR windshield
I know once I get the windshield out of the frame, the glass cracked while at the painter, but I'm trying to source a new piece before I do, including checking out the thicker polycarbonate windshields out there. Want to make sure I'm not looking at product that is too thin or thick. Also, is the stock one tinted at all? Hard to tell sitting in my garage.
Thanks
520 speedworks is now selling a Lexan windshield: $350 with free shipping.
https://520speedworks.com/shop/ols/products/cobra-lexan-windshield
GTBradley
01-21-2022, 11:45 AM
I used Makrolon AR-2 (Tuffak) from a local supplier and it was 3/16" thick.
Fman, I checked that out, and watched their installation video. He mentions at the end of the video that the windshield has an issue with flexing at speed. I believe it's probably 1/8" stock, but I'm not certain. I have a question in to a company called Optic Armor. More expensive, but they did a test where they set up a windshield wiper wrapped with steel wool and took a windshield of polycarbonate that was treated on one side with their system and the untreated side was all scratched up, but the treated side had no scratches at all. I hope they get back to me today. They offer product in 1/8, 3/16 & 1/4" thicknesses.
GTBradley, Was that a flat sheet? No problems getting it to bend to the shape needed? I'll check that out.
Thanks guys. I'm still curious what thickness of glass FFR uses. I might give them a call.
GTBradley
01-21-2022, 01:30 PM
I can't remember off the top of my head what size FFR calls it, but a quick caliper measurement of my old FFR supplied glass is: 5.46mm or 7/32". It was one of the easier upgrades I've done to the roadster. It was a 4x8 flat sheet at $400 and I sold half of it. I had no trouble getting the 3/16" Lexan to bend and hold it's shape. I don't notice it flexing even at 120, but it will flex when pushed on with your thumb. No scratches in 10,000 miles.
Blitzboy54
01-21-2022, 03:17 PM
I used Makrolon AR-2 (Tuffak) from a local supplier and it was 3/16" thick.
Did you have any issues with the wiper? I'm wondering if it leaves a mark over time.
GTBradley
01-21-2022, 05:26 PM
Did you have any issues with the wiper? I'm wondering if it leaves a mark over time.
None at all and I have used the wipers in rain. The only marks are the small pits like you get in glass, but even smaller.
Thanks so much for the follow up. I'm definitely going to look into this. Really surprised that the 3/16" thick material would bend to fit the frame with no issues! Thanks again, I'll try to remember to update when I finally get this figured out.
lance corsi
01-22-2022, 08:50 AM
I’ve seen 1/2” lexan bent in a press brake like metal. I was astounded that it did not shatter, but held its shape at around 90 deg angle.
Planecrazy1976
01-23-2022, 01:59 PM
Rick this is Greg with 520 Speedworks. Our windshields are 3/16 inch thick. We have tested them up to speeds past 110 mph on our personal car with no notice of vibration or bending. It fact on movement at all. I will go back and look at the install video to see where i talk about 1/8 in. Thanks for looking Greg.
Greg, My apologies if it sounded like you had said anything regarding the thickness being 1/8". It was my assumption, and we all know how that works when you assume! I'm sure it was just boiler plate legalese that anyone selling a product needs to include anymore. I'm still not sure if I should go this way as I think that California does not allow polycarbonate windshields, and the way things have been going for me lately, I'll be the one that gets called out on an inspection! As a note, if I didn't mention it earlier, Ken Pike had recommended that I check your site for the replacement. I believe he has a car in for paint that has one, and it was impressive regarding clarity. I've still got some time before Ken is done painting mine, so I may still be in touch. By the way, are your pieces pre-formed for the curve, or does it just form to the shape as you install it, and do you have them in stock? By the way, thanks for responding.
OK, I went back to the 520 Speedworks site, and it states clearly in the description of the windshield that it is made from 3/16" lexan (polycarbonate), so that will show you how well I comprehend what I'm reading!
Planecrazy1976
01-23-2022, 08:10 PM
Rick, the reason the website is soo clearly stared is because I went back and fixed the website. I understand the concern about inspections. We just got our car pased with one here in Az, but they didn't ask about the windshield. The car Ken is talking about when he did his Ca inspection the windscreen was already instaled. I do understand where you are coming from. If you have any questions let me know.
GTBradley
01-24-2022, 05:45 PM
The state inspection will ding you for not having a DOT certified glass windscreen…if they notice. The state Trooper installing my VIN plate noticed and told me it should not have passed the inspection. He let it go though. In racing, Lexan is preferred and considered safe, so I feel street use is safe too, but you need to get through that inspection first.
The good thing is that I'm already through the CHP inspection, and have a vin number. The only inspection left is the BAR for the only "smog" inspection, and then I can get my plates. I'm leaning towards the lexan, but...I don't know
The CA BAR inspection won't care about your windshield, he will come out and check your PCV system and ask where you want your decal to be placed. At least this was my experience.
Fman, Thanks for letting me know your experience. I think that answers my question as to the direction I'm going to go.