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WWW.RLYACHTS.NET
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RL24, RL28, and RL34 Trailable Yachts
from Rob Legg Yachts
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RL Yacht Owner's Discussion Forum
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Return to the Forum List window replacement |  I need to replace the cabin windows on my rl24 - I could use some advice - (how do you get the windows out to replace them ..
ross in New Mexico oon@nets.com
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| | Re: window replacement | Hi Ross.
I too need to replace my side windowns on my RL28 as they are starting to look a little daggy.
I can not help with any advice, but I would like to share a possible alternative option with you that I have seen on an RL28.
The owner of that particular RL28 had removed the original windowns and had relaced them with a full length single (thick) tinted perspex piece which ran the entire length of the cabin. (similar to what a Cole 23 has.
The perspex is attached to the outside of the cabin and is well sealed against leackage and is screwed into the cabin side. (I would have prefered a very strong adhesive rather than screws, if one does exist.)
I just wish I could find the photo to post so you could see what it looked like.
It did actually look quite good on the RL28. (Sorry Rob!!)
Best regards
Garry
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| | Re: window replacement | I have recently changed the windows on my RL28 and it is quite a straightforward task.
Firstly pull out the rubber surround from the outside of the window. Replacement for this can be extremely difficult to track down, so take care in case you need to reuse it.
Now, from the inside, push the window out. Start at a corner, preferably the sharpest corner. Push very slowly but steadily and you will start to feel the sealant let go. Once the seal has been broken in the corner, it is easy to work your way around the window, breaking the seal until the window is free. There is no need to undo the surround from the inside; the window is held in by sealant and the rubber seal.
Clean all sealant from where the window was seated. This is important - it is what keeps the boat waterproof. Also clean out the sealant that was holding in the rubber surround. This is not so critical as it is only there to hold the rubber in place.
Get the new windows cut to match the old. I got Macrolon polycarbonate windows although perspex can be used. The polycarbonate is 4 times the price but lasts much longer in the sun.
Get the very best marine silicon sealant. The window suppliers may be able to supply this. I used a 3M product.
Run a bead of silicon around the flat part of the extrusion against which the window will rest and press the window in place. Try to be clean because it can be difficult to remove excess silicon without scratching the new windows. Alcohol (metholated spirit) does help clean up and is very mild. Keep some pressure on the window until the sealant holds.
If you can get new rubber surround do so but I found the old stuff still in quite good condition although it had shrunk a bit. If new, cut it to size by fitting it dry first. Push it hard into the corners - you don't want it pulling away from there later on and allowing water in. Then glue it in place with the silicon sealant. This is not critical and the rubber just seems to be there to direct the bulk of the water away from the window edges. If you use the old rubber, there could be a gap at the top where it no longer meets. Fill this with black window sealant or gasket to complete the seal.
It is actually an easy job if you take it slow and carefully. If using polycarbonate be sure to remove all excess silicon from the window as it will discolor the polycarbonate in time.
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