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Author Topic:   Taller windshield a good idea?

HAPPYJIM posted 05-14-2003 09:45 PM ET (US)
I'm replacing the windshield on my 1973 21' Outrage with a custom light smoke tint.
I would like it to be about 6" to 10" taller in the front.

I won't be able to hold on to the front grab rail while at the helm but the side rails will still be usable.
Will it flex too much?
Has anyone done this before?
I have looked through the archives and nothing there.

I did find a good topic on the attachment hardware.
NEVER SCARED posted 05-14-2003 09:53 PM ET (US)
Im gonna have one built for my Outrage 18. I cannot see the logic in building a center console with windshields coming up to your nipples. Even on a hot summer day, the ocean breeze is still cold. I never use the front console rail while behind it anyway. This is probably the number one reason people sell their cc Boston Whalers. Go for it Jim....you'll be happier!
HAPPYJIM posted 05-14-2003 11:09 PM ET (US)
How much taller will you make yours?
dfmcintyre posted 05-15-2003 09:13 AM ET (US)
When I reno'ed my 73 21' Outrage, the origional plexi had been cut down to about 1/2 it's height and surrounding s/s hardware was missing. After costing replacement hardware and plexi, I ended up having an aluminium frame fabricated, taller then origional and used safety glass. I'm 6'3" and it's tall enough to sit behind and not get hit. It has a built in grabrail along the sides, similar to the Mako center consoles.
I like the glass, as it does not scratch.
Best- Don
dfmcintyre posted 05-15-2003 09:14 AM ET (US)
One more thought/caution:
If you change the height, standard stock storage/trailering canvas will not work.
Don
HAPPYJIM posted 05-15-2003 05:22 PM ET (US)
dfmcintyre
I took my old one to the glass company my fishing buddy owns to make me the new windshield. The old one is 14" tall.
I want the new one 24" tall. I hope it will hold up to the wind pressure OK.
The glass idea sounds good too. Is the front glass split down the middle or is it one piece?
Did you use smoked glass or clear?
Did you remove the old grab rails?
If you have some pictures that would be great.
My Girlfriend is making me a cover out of Gortex material so the height is not a factor.
Thanks, HAPPYJIM
Barry posted 05-15-2003 06:21 PM ET (US)
See this page for pictures of Don's boat http://continuouswave.com/whaler/cetacea/cetaceaPage37.html
Sal DiMercurio posted 05-15-2003 06:33 PM ET (US)
I had my new wind shield built about 10" higher, only problem is, when it was rough everyone would grab the wind shield instead of the rail, cut it dow 3 times, it's back to where the original was & I feel thats where it belongs.
You might not grab it, but for sure the others will.
Sal
HAPPYJIM posted 05-15-2003 08:06 PM ET (US)
Barry
Thanks for the lead on that picture.

Don
I like your windshield, nice custom touch on a very nice boat.
I'll talk it over with Ricky at Perry Glass and see what he thinks about building it.
Is the frame all welded?
You don't happen to have plans for it do you?
Sal
Thanks for the info.
Did you cut it back down because people grabbed it or did it not function the way you wanted it to?
Sal DiMercurio posted 05-15-2003 08:57 PM ET (US)
I cut it back down, three different times until it was back like it was.
People kept grabbing it & cracked it twice, it was just in the way.
Sal
dfmcintyre posted 05-15-2003 09:09 PM ET (US)
Jim -
The console was taken to a custom stainless steel fabricator who kept it in his shop for about a week, and welded up the aluminium frame.
In the 70's series console there is a "notch" where the plexiglass was attached to the edge. That notched area was removed in later years. The frame fits, as best he could fit it, into the notch.
Only mistake I made was not being clear on wrapping the grab rail all the way around, including the top of the forward frame, not just the sides.
Hope this helps....
Don
If you need some closeups let me know.
HAPPYJIM posted 05-15-2003 09:19 PM ET (US)
I'll forward the pictures to Perry Glass and see if that will be good enough. If I need more I'll let you know.
Thanks for your help.
bkovak posted 05-16-2003 06:29 PM ET (US)
Happyjim,
Is your old windshield the stock plexiglass one from the fiberglass center console? If so and it's in good shape, I would be interested in it. My old one has a lot of scratches and small cracks. Thanks, Brian
HAPPYJIM posted 05-16-2003 06:58 PM ET (US)
I'm not sure if it stock or not. It was 14" tall and a slight tint. It was scratched but usable. It also has a sticker of some kind on it and two other places where stickers had been where the glue residue remains. no cracks
It is at Perry Glass Co. or I would take pictures of it for you. I thought you sold your 21 footer?
onlyawhaler posted 05-17-2003 02:23 PM ET (US)
This is a late post and I am a bit embarrassed to put it, but 8 years ago, I bought my first used 18 outrage (1983). I wanted it for the unsinkable, Whaler reputation. I at that time, did not appreciate the classic look, nor was this web site up then. I didn't like the wind on cold mornings hitting me in the face. I was on a business trip up in Seattle and saw a 1991 19 Outrage and liked the higher windshield and stainless rail. I quickly measured the width and a few other things, went home and found that the windshield and rail from the newer would fit EXACTLY on an older Outrage (80s anyway) with very few modifications. I bought the rail and windshield from Whaler and with a few new holes, had it on with the matching stainless rail that prevented people from grabbing the lexan. I thought it looked great, more modern look. It worked great.
It obviously destroyed the classic look, which I appreciate greatly now. I would never do it again on the 18 I have now, but it really cut the wind.
Onlyawhaler
onlyawhaler posted 05-17-2003 02:23 PM ET (US)
This is a late post and I am a bit embarrassed to put it, but 8 years ago, I bought my first used 18 outrage (1983). I wanted it for the unsinkable, Whaler reputation. I at that time, did not appreciate the classic look, nor was this web site up then. I didn't like the wind on cold mornings hitting me in the face. I was on a business trip up in Seattle and saw a 1991 19 Outrage and liked the higher windshield and stainless rail. I quickly measured the width and a few other things, went home and found that the windshield and rail from the newer would fit EXACTLY on an older Outrage (80s anyway) with very few modifications. I bought the rail and windshield from Whaler and with a few new holes, had it on with the matching stainless rail that prevented people from grabbing the lexan. I thought it looked great, more modern look. It worked great.
It obviously destroyed the classic look, which I appreciate greatly now. I would never do it again on the 18 I have now, but it really cut the wind.
Onlyawhaler
HAPPYJIM posted 06-26-2003 04:57 PM ET (US)

Well I have my new 24" tall windshield and I am having a new taller grab rail fabricated.
The windshield looks great and it will really cut the cold wind down this winter.
I still have the old windshield.
I'm not sure if it original.
It is still functional. It has the name "Taylor" sandblasted on it.
it is scratched lightly all over, no deep scratches or gouges.
I also have the old grab rail less all fittings except the "T" is still there.
hookinfinger posted 06-28-2003 01:24 PM ET (US)
A friend of mine had his windshield replaced last week. We fished yesterday until late in the evening. As it grew darker and darker on the way back to his slip, it became harder and harder to see through the windshield. Finally we could barely see the lighted marker bouys.
His windshield had been tinted to dark and is useless for night time use. I only mention this as a caution for those thinking of adding tint to their replacement windshields.
larimore posted 07-05-2003 01:40 PM ET (US)
I had a new windshield built for my 22' OR - Best thing I've done. I made the new one come up to just below eye level when standing(i'm 6'3"). Leaning I'm just below the shield. No more wind noise in the face, No more cold wind and rain - Great Addition. Made it out of 3/8" clear plexi. Base fits identical to original, just taller
HAPPYJIM posted 07-05-2003 11:07 PM ET (US)

Too late on my windshield, it is extra dark.
I plan on many trips to the Gulf Stream and on the way out,early in the morning, the sun is right in your eyes.
On the way back in, the afternoon sun is there again.
I don't fish at night so I don't think it will be a problem.
Thanks for the heads up though.
I decided to repair all of the holes drilled and cut in the console for the past 30 years.
I have never done any fiberglass work before.
Bought the West System Kit and used it today.
The job was much easier than I had imagined.
I will gel cote it next week.
dfloeter posted 07-06-2003 07:23 AM ET (US)
I just removed a wrap around plexi windshield on my 1964 16-7. The previous owner had it built up and included a sturdy stainless rail that follows the edges and bolts securely to the console. This outfit really changed the appearance of this classic boat. I could though crouch behind the screen and avoid the cold winds on those winter trips around Grand Traverse Bay.
Both pieces plus backing plates are now in my garage taking up space and if anyone wants them I will float a good deal plus shipping from Michigan. They are bulky of course and shipping might be pricey. I can send photos if anyone wants to see.

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Author	Topic: Taller windshield a good idea?
HAPPYJIM	posted 05-14-2003 09:45 PM ET (US) I'm replacing the windshield on my 1973 21' Outrage with a custom light smoke tint. I would like it to be about 6" to 10" taller in the front. I won't be able to hold on to the front grab rail while at the helm but the side rails will still be usable. Will it flex too much? Has anyone done this before? I have looked through the archives and nothing there. I did find a good topic on the attachment hardware.
NEVER SCARED	posted 05-14-2003 09:53 PM ET (US) Im gonna have one built for my Outrage 18. I cannot see the logic in building a center console with windshields coming up to your nipples. Even on a hot summer day, the ocean breeze is still cold. I never use the front console rail while behind it anyway. This is probably the number one reason people sell their cc Boston Whalers. Go for it Jim....you'll be happier!
HAPPYJIM	posted 05-14-2003 11:09 PM ET (US) How much taller will you make yours?
dfmcintyre	posted 05-15-2003 09:13 AM ET (US) When I reno'ed my 73 21' Outrage, the origional plexi had been cut down to about 1/2 it's height and surrounding s/s hardware was missing. After costing replacement hardware and plexi, I ended up having an aluminium frame fabricated, taller then origional and used safety glass. I'm 6'3" and it's tall enough to sit behind and not get hit. It has a built in grabrail along the sides, similar to the Mako center consoles. I like the glass, as it does not scratch. Best- Don
dfmcintyre	posted 05-15-2003 09:14 AM ET (US) One more thought/caution: If you change the height, standard stock storage/trailering canvas will not work. Don
HAPPYJIM	posted 05-15-2003 05:22 PM ET (US) dfmcintyre I took my old one to the glass company my fishing buddy owns to make me the new windshield. The old one is 14" tall. I want the new one 24" tall. I hope it will hold up to the wind pressure OK. The glass idea sounds good too. Is the front glass split down the middle or is it one piece? Did you use smoked glass or clear? Did you remove the old grab rails? If you have some pictures that would be great. My Girlfriend is making me a cover out of Gortex material so the height is not a factor. Thanks, HAPPYJIM
Barry	posted 05-15-2003 06:21 PM ET (US) See this page for pictures of Don's boat http://continuouswave.com/whaler/cetacea/cetaceaPage37.html
Sal DiMercurio	posted 05-15-2003 06:33 PM ET (US) I had my new wind shield built about 10" higher, only problem is, when it was rough everyone would grab the wind shield instead of the rail, cut it dow 3 times, it's back to where the original was & I feel thats where it belongs. You might not grab it, but for sure the others will. Sal
HAPPYJIM	posted 05-15-2003 08:06 PM ET (US) Barry Thanks for the lead on that picture. Don I like your windshield, nice custom touch on a very nice boat. I'll talk it over with Ricky at Perry Glass and see what he thinks about building it. Is the frame all welded? You don't happen to have plans for it do you? Sal Thanks for the info. Did you cut it back down because people grabbed it or did it not function the way you wanted it to?
Sal DiMercurio	posted 05-15-2003 08:57 PM ET (US) I cut it back down, three different times until it was back like it was. People kept grabbing it & cracked it twice, it was just in the way. Sal
dfmcintyre	posted 05-15-2003 09:09 PM ET (US) Jim - The console was taken to a custom stainless steel fabricator who kept it in his shop for about a week, and welded up the aluminium frame. In the 70's series console there is a "notch" where the plexiglass was attached to the edge. That notched area was removed in later years. The frame fits, as best he could fit it, into the notch. Only mistake I made was not being clear on wrapping the grab rail all the way around, including the top of the forward frame, not just the sides. Hope this helps.... Don If you need some closeups let me know.
HAPPYJIM	posted 05-15-2003 09:19 PM ET (US) I'll forward the pictures to Perry Glass and see if that will be good enough. If I need more I'll let you know. Thanks for your help.
bkovak	posted 05-16-2003 06:29 PM ET (US) Happyjim, Is your old windshield the stock plexiglass one from the fiberglass center console? If so and it's in good shape, I would be interested in it. My old one has a lot of scratches and small cracks. Thanks, Brian
HAPPYJIM	posted 05-16-2003 06:58 PM ET (US) I'm not sure if it stock or not. It was 14" tall and a slight tint. It was scratched but usable. It also has a sticker of some kind on it and two other places where stickers had been where the glue residue remains. no cracks It is at Perry Glass Co. or I would take pictures of it for you. I thought you sold your 21 footer?
onlyawhaler	posted 05-17-2003 02:23 PM ET (US) This is a late post and I am a bit embarrassed to put it, but 8 years ago, I bought my first used 18 outrage (1983). I wanted it for the unsinkable, Whaler reputation. I at that time, did not appreciate the classic look, nor was this web site up then. I didn't like the wind on cold mornings hitting me in the face. I was on a business trip up in Seattle and saw a 1991 19 Outrage and liked the higher windshield and stainless rail. I quickly measured the width and a few other things, went home and found that the windshield and rail from the newer would fit EXACTLY on an older Outrage (80s anyway) with very few modifications. I bought the rail and windshield from Whaler and with a few new holes, had it on with the matching stainless rail that prevented people from grabbing the lexan. I thought it looked great, more modern look. It worked great. It obviously destroyed the classic look, which I appreciate greatly now. I would never do it again on the 18 I have now, but it really cut the wind. Onlyawhaler
onlyawhaler	posted 05-17-2003 02:23 PM ET (US) This is a late post and I am a bit embarrassed to put it, but 8 years ago, I bought my first used 18 outrage (1983). I wanted it for the unsinkable, Whaler reputation. I at that time, did not appreciate the classic look, nor was this web site up then. I didn't like the wind on cold mornings hitting me in the face. I was on a business trip up in Seattle and saw a 1991 19 Outrage and liked the higher windshield and stainless rail. I quickly measured the width and a few other things, went home and found that the windshield and rail from the newer would fit EXACTLY on an older Outrage (80s anyway) with very few modifications. I bought the rail and windshield from Whaler and with a few new holes, had it on with the matching stainless rail that prevented people from grabbing the lexan. I thought it looked great, more modern look. It worked great. It obviously destroyed the classic look, which I appreciate greatly now. I would never do it again on the 18 I have now, but it really cut the wind. Onlyawhaler
HAPPYJIM	posted 06-26-2003 04:57 PM ET (US) Well I have my new 24" tall windshield and I am having a new taller grab rail fabricated. The windshield looks great and it will really cut the cold wind down this winter. I still have the old windshield. I'm not sure if it original. It is still functional. It has the name "Taylor" sandblasted on it. it is scratched lightly all over, no deep scratches or gouges. I also have the old grab rail less all fittings except the "T" is still there.
hookinfinger	posted 06-28-2003 01:24 PM ET (US) A friend of mine had his windshield replaced last week. We fished yesterday until late in the evening. As it grew darker and darker on the way back to his slip, it became harder and harder to see through the windshield. Finally we could barely see the lighted marker bouys. His windshield had been tinted to dark and is useless for night time use. I only mention this as a caution for those thinking of adding tint to their replacement windshields.
larimore	posted 07-05-2003 01:40 PM ET (US) I had a new windshield built for my 22' OR - Best thing I've done. I made the new one come up to just below eye level when standing(i'm 6'3"). Leaning I'm just below the shield. No more wind noise in the face, No more cold wind and rain - Great Addition. Made it out of 3/8" clear plexi. Base fits identical to original, just taller
HAPPYJIM	posted 07-05-2003 11:07 PM ET (US) Too late on my windshield, it is extra dark. I plan on many trips to the Gulf Stream and on the way out,early in the morning, the sun is right in your eyes. On the way back in, the afternoon sun is there again. I don't fish at night so I don't think it will be a problem. Thanks for the heads up though. I decided to repair all of the holes drilled and cut in the console for the past 30 years. I have never done any fiberglass work before. Bought the West System Kit and used it today. The job was much easier than I had imagined. I will gel cote it next week.
dfloeter	posted 07-06-2003 07:23 AM ET (US) I just removed a wrap around plexi windshield on my 1964 16-7. The previous owner had it built up and included a sturdy stainless rail that follows the edges and bolts securely to the console. This outfit really changed the appearance of this classic boat. I could though crouch behind the screen and avoid the cold winds on those winter trips around Grand Traverse Bay. Both pieces plus backing plates are now in my garage taking up space and if anyone wants them I will float a good deal plus shipping from Michigan. They are bulky of course and shipping might be pricey. I can send photos if anyone wants to see.