43 ft DC Windshield Question

[Will]

The top of the center widshield on my 43' DC opens but I'm not sure about the bottom part. The bottom looks like it may hinged at the bottom to open outward and downward but I'm not sure. Also, the outside frame of the lower window has screws around it that look like if removed, the frame could be taken out to remove the glass. Have any of you replaced the glass in the lower center window on these boats? Do you know it if opens or not? Any thoughts or suggestions are most appreciated.
Thanks - Will

 

[Jaxfishgyd]

On mine, the bottom part does not open nor does it have outside screws like you mentioned... Wish it did though.

 

[Trojan]

I replaced all the glass in my 73/43 and the bottom does not open nor does it have screws. I don't know what you have.

BILL

 

[eze2bme]

On my 1979 43DC the bottom center panel unit does have screws on the outside which holds the unit in the frame. The lower unit will come out if you remove all of the screws. The unit does not have hinges. You can replace the glass in this unit by removing the gasket and shim clips then pry out the glass from the sealant.

 

[Will]

Thank you for the replies. That takes care of the lower part.

The top part of mine leaks around the gaskets. I'd like to retain the ability to open it. Steve McPherson said that the original gaskets are NLA. Do any of you have ideas on replacement gaskets?

Thanks - Will

 

[Jaxfishgyd]

Replaced my gasket on the center window in 2003 with window gasket tape I got at Home Depot, it was 1/8th thick and I have had no problems....

 

[yachtsmanbill]

Do any of you guys have pics of the hinge / hardware arraingements? Thats exactly what I want to do to mine this winter! The outer frame is typical Hatteras with a bunch of bondo'ed square drive screws. Inside is the bronzed aluminum frame that can be cut. ws

 

[Will]

yachtsmanbill
Your windows are entirely different from those on a 43' DC. My whole windshield is one aluminum fabrication with three windows. The outboard ones are fixed but, the top of the center window opens outward. I don't see how a similar arrangement could be made for your boat without great expense. I'll be happy to send to photos if you like but, I don't think they will be of much help.

 

[Jaxfishgyd]

Bill,
Just get the BIRD to come help you while drinking a couple of bottles of Grey Goose and then post pictures of the finish results......