New windshields for old bass boat?

[Stevo_fishes]

Hey yall, currently planning a restoration of my 1996 nitro 180 dc. I have carpet and all the other things picked out but need new windshields because it didn’t come with any. UPD plastics offers some and would be a little less than 500 bucks for both, but I’ve seen some sketchy and good reviews for them and was wondering if it’s a good place to get windshields or if there’s somewhere better. Thanks!

[Way2slow]

I've used Lexan to make a few but, in most cases, you end up taking them off rather than installing them.  If you use most any of the modern sonars, it's very common to mount one on top of the console, and if you do, it usually requires removing the windshield to make room for it. It's either that or using a swing arm off to the side and a lot of times those are in the way.

 

The reason for Lexan and not plexiglass, Lexan won't break when bending it and with a little skill and heat gun you can make it in most any shape you want.  Plexiglass will break in a heartbeat if the temp is not right when bending it.

 

Also note a little too much heat will ruin it, makes bubbles and a foggy spot and not enough heat will make ugly bends.

 

To answer your question, for that old of a boat, I would seriously doubt you will find one that doesn't have to be custom made for it.

[spartyon8]

18 minutes ago, Way2slow said:

I've used Lexan to make a few but, in most cases, you end up taking them off rather than installing them.  If you use most any of the modern sonars, it's very common to mount one on top of the console, and if you do, it usually requires removing the windshield to make room for it. It's either that or using a swing arm off to the side and a lot of times those are in the way.

 

The reason for Lexan and not plexiglass, Lexan won't break when bending it and with a little skill and heat gun you can make it in most any shape you want.  Plexiglass will break in a heartbeat if the temp is not right when bending it.

 

Also note a little too much heat will ruin it, makes bubbles and a foggy spot and not enough heat will make ugly bends.

 

To answer your question, for that old of a boat, I would seriously doubt you will find one that doesn't have to be custom made for it.

I made on for an old Skeeter out of lexan and a heat gun. I made a rough frame out of some 1x lumber, routed the edges and let the lexan drape around it. I then use the heat gun with a scrap one by to bend/stretch small areas. When I had it the way I wanted I cut to fit the lines on the console and used factory screw holes to mount. 

[TOXIC]

Give a call to Custom Mold and Tint in Monticello, Arkansas and see what they can do.   

[Cuivre]

I second Custom Mold and Tint. My brother got a windshield for his 1989 Ranger for them after a coangler broke a piece off it by using it to get out of their seat.  (it was me-but I paid for it.  LOL!)