Windshield rubber and installation tips

[cbcfly]

I've got some questions regarding windshield installation. First of all, I've read some good pointers after a search of the forum, but they're mostly about 10 years ago. Does anybody have a current source for the rubber moulding that goes along the bottom of the windshield?

My wings are currently off. Just finished fabric and am about to paint. Should I fit the windshield now, or wait until the wings are on?

Is there anything used on the upper trim piece to keep it from chafing the fabric or the windshield? Some rubber channel on edges? Some felt, foam, or anti-cafe tape underneath? And what about the side trim?

I'd appreciate any tips and techniques that have worked for you all.

Thanks!

[Robert Lees]

I would wait until the aircraft is complete before fitting the windscreen (I have only done it once, and it has lasted 25 years...whether by luck or judgement is anyone's guess!)
But wait for warm weather, unless you can do the cutting in a pre-heated hangar/workshop)

[astjp2]

3Dreaming used to have some of the rubber gasket, PM him and see. Tim

[Scott]

I used adhesive-backed felt ( believe it's actually synthetic). It is what LP Aero ships with new windshield. If the boot cowl is shaped correctly, water will run out of the trim at the door posts.

You'll need the wings in place to do final fitting but you can do the bulk of the trimming by following the roof line and positioning the root ribs for reference.

At final assembly I covered the top aft edge with abrasion tape that was wide enough to protect the fabric/finish and also the windshield.. and also provides some weather seal.

Plexiglass can be safely cut with aluminum oxide cutting discs and flap discs at 120 grit work well for shaping and smoothing the edges.

To drill holes, you need to sharpen drill bits at a shallow angle ie so they won't "bite" but rather take small shavings with light pressure.

https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mP2pv5lFuec/W06Zo2rOR6I/AAAAAAAAEZs/nVQu5kZY2VU__AH7B6MesOIIdE60EPNNwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7033.JPG

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zNJfMkG-33k/W06ZoZkUJkI/AAAAAAAAEZo/gNycZKclUk8jMap9TEGem3UXUuJijO_UgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7036.JPG

See "Final Assembly" at c-fclr.blogspot.com

[cbcfly]

Thanks guys! 3Dreaming hooked me up with some of the rubber.

Scott - of course I already checked your blog out before even posting here! It's such a useful tool. Thanks for taking the time to document your work. I'll look for that felt. I found some 1/8 closed cell foam with adhesive on one side that I may try.