One of the necessary tasks I'm facing is the need to install polycarbonate side windows in my '84 Rampage. These are frameless windows.
I've been daydreaming some ideas for constructing a tube or rod frame that will support the lexan, but would appreciate any practical advice from people who have done this before.
There is a channel which is attached to the upper part of the door opening (on the cab of the truck), which holds a rubber seal. I plan to keep this channel in place, as well as the OEM rubber seal for the window seal. I still have the OEM side glass, which I plan to use as a template for cutting the Polycarbonate.
I was originally thinking of using 1/2" square tubing to construct a frame for window support, and either bolting or welding the 1/2" tubing to the door. The more I thought about it, the square tubing might be a problem, as it will have some compound curves, which will not work well for square cross sections.
My thinking now is to use some 3/8" solid rod to form the support structure, and use some small weld tabs which will weld to the round tubing, and then rivet the Polycarbonate to those weld tabs all around the fabricated frame.
Again - please provide any and all advice with respect to fitting polycarbonate side windows to a vehicle with frameless windows.
The Rampage door glass is somewhat similar to a Camaro. I know there are plenty of Camaros on the salt, please share your recommendations.
Steve.