CharlieWaffles
Well Known Member
Here is my current thinking of how I am going to install my windows and I'm wondering if I am missing something or am perhaps crazy for thinking this will work. This description applies to the side transparancies only, it will be modified for the front windshield.
The intent is to avoid the process of micro and glass to fill the gap with the window. I do not care if the main paint color "bridges" onto the window transparency. The tendency to crack, the asthetics and the work involved have me thinking differently.
I am using Lord Epoxy 7585 A/E as recommended by a trusted Fiberglass person - Geoff Combs.
1) Window opening flage scuffed and 3/4 flange around inside of window transparency also scuffed
2) Window installed using Lord Epoxy
3) Fillet is created on inside edge using Lord Epoxy mixed with Epoxy black tint (test was successful to do this). Epoxy is cleaned up with PPG DTG870 which does not affect plexi window (test also confirmed this).
4) Once aircraft is painted, painter will paint 1" border around transparency edge to cover epoxy adhesion area with black paint.
5) Transition from transparency to canopy on exterior will be filled and filleted with matching black polyeurathane rubber/flexible automotive grade sealant.
This should result in the windows have a defined border around the window, no glass to crack with age and an easy to repair exterior fillet if it should ever need maintenance. In addition, the polyeurathane will allow the plexi/canopy expansion/contraction needed.
Any comments? Ideas? Anyone else follow a similar process?
The intent is to avoid the process of micro and glass to fill the gap with the window. I do not care if the main paint color "bridges" onto the window transparency. The tendency to crack, the asthetics and the work involved have me thinking differently.
I am using Lord Epoxy 7585 A/E as recommended by a trusted Fiberglass person - Geoff Combs.
1) Window opening flage scuffed and 3/4 flange around inside of window transparency also scuffed
2) Window installed using Lord Epoxy
3) Fillet is created on inside edge using Lord Epoxy mixed with Epoxy black tint (test was successful to do this). Epoxy is cleaned up with PPG DTG870 which does not affect plexi window (test also confirmed this).
4) Once aircraft is painted, painter will paint 1" border around transparency edge to cover epoxy adhesion area with black paint.
5) Transition from transparency to canopy on exterior will be filled and filleted with matching black polyeurathane rubber/flexible automotive grade sealant.
This should result in the windows have a defined border around the window, no glass to crack with age and an easy to repair exterior fillet if it should ever need maintenance. In addition, the polyeurathane will allow the plexi/canopy expansion/contraction needed.
Any comments? Ideas? Anyone else follow a similar process?