Blown Out Windshield - 353 Fastech
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08-17-2017, 01:16 PM
#33
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08-17-2017, 08:07 PM
#34
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For those of you with a Fastech -
I think what might have happened is the frame flexed, causing the panes to bend inward like a a deck of cards would if you tried to shoot them across a room. I get the deign aesthetics of the wrap windshield with no support, but it seems to me that the frame needs a support at the center to avoid flex. Especially if you think about how you get on the bow from the cockpit. You step on a storage compartment, then the glove box and then over the windshield, while you put your hands on the frame. Hundreds of reps may have loosened it. I'm going to look into fabricating a strut that bolts into the top of the dash and then the frame.
On the other hand, the power of water is awe inspiring and perhaps nothing could prevent this.
I think what might have happened is the frame flexed, causing the panes to bend inward like a a deck of cards would if you tried to shoot them across a room. I get the deign aesthetics of the wrap windshield with no support, but it seems to me that the frame needs a support at the center to avoid flex. Especially if you think about how you get on the bow from the cockpit. You step on a storage compartment, then the glove box and then over the windshield, while you put your hands on the frame. Hundreds of reps may have loosened it. I'm going to look into fabricating a strut that bolts into the top of the dash and then the frame.
On the other hand, the power of water is awe inspiring and perhaps nothing could prevent this.
Take a look at some of the newer Fountains with the full curved windshield, there is a center support leg that you might be able to adapt to your Formula. Fountain used several different sizes based on the height of the windshield. My 35 Lightning has the taller windshield and I would think it is similar in height to the one on your boat. If a picture is of help do not hesitate to ask, be glad to help.
08-18-2017, 04:38 AM
#35
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Thread Starter
Thanks Ragged. Please post a picture.That would be helpful. Performance Marine is going to do the repair, so I'll ask Jason about it. I'm going to look into stainless vs.the standard windshield as well. Working with the insurance company, but it's like molasses..
08-18-2017, 07:12 AM
#37
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Sorry to hear of your mis-fortune and glad to hear everyone is ok.
used to have a 292 and honestly was never impressed with the construction of the windshield. It was always flexing and getting bounced around in decent water. Another area to be considerate of is the rear attachment location. On our boat the screws constantly sheared from flexing and movement. I'd be mindful of it when getting the work done.
used to have a 292 and honestly was never impressed with the construction of the windshield. It was always flexing and getting bounced around in decent water. Another area to be considerate of is the rear attachment location. On our boat the screws constantly sheared from flexing and movement. I'd be mindful of it when getting the work done.
08-18-2017, 05:12 PM
#38
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I have never had any issue whatsoever with the WS on my 353. Solid as a rock.
I do check the frame top screws every now and then over 14 years and have seldom gotten anything on them
Though the closest I've come to stuffing is a few inches rolling up the deck in Lake Ontario
I've been out when the trough is so deep I can't see over standing and I'm 6'5"
I have actually been quite impressed, when operated reasonably, how seaworthy it is.
I do check the frame top screws every now and then over 14 years and have seldom gotten anything on them
Though the closest I've come to stuffing is a few inches rolling up the deck in Lake Ontario
I've been out when the trough is so deep I can't see over standing and I'm 6'5"
I have actually been quite impressed, when operated reasonably, how seaworthy it is.
