Reduce wear to spray hood windows?

[Simon F]

Is there a way to fold down a spray hood that doesn't torture the widows? I used to have a Triumph Spitfire years ago and you coul lower the hood without folding any of the clear panals but I can't see how that can be done with the hood on my new (to me) boat. Presumably they won't last long if repeatedly creased.

Thanks for any wisdom

Simon.

 

[alahol2]

When I fold our spray hood the windows fold but not sharply. If you can avoid an actual crease the windows don't suffer until the UV has started to turn them brittle.

 

[doug748]

Is there a way to fold down a spray hood that doesn't torture the widows? I used to have a Triumph Spitfire years ago and you coul lower the hood without folding any of the clear panals but I can't see how that can be done with the hood on my new (to me) boat. Presumably they won't last long if repeatedly creased.

Thanks for any wisdom

Simon.

The bigger the window the more problem you have, it's not so much the folding but when they crease to a point and you get stress marks and then cracks. Best technique is to loosen the fabric pull the frame a little forward and then give the window a horizontal karate chop with your hand, this makes a horizontal fold which you can encourage as the hood comes down. If it starts to cockle stop and pull it out before it gets extreme. I try not to lash the frame down hard but leave it with a bit of spring.

The last one I had made I specified small windows with this in mind. It's also easier to DIY a replacement.
Of course many people leave them up as a permanent feature.

.

 

[Concerto]

You might also like to keep the windows clear and supple. Pledge furniture polish is recommended by many classic sports car owners. I use it regularly and they are supple and clear after 11 seasons.

 

[PCUK]

That's a useful tip.