Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers
Online Community of Zenith Builders and Flyers
Window tinting
I recently purchased a flying 701 which I'm really starting to enjoy. Anyway somebody before me put window tint on the skylight area which I thought I would like until the other when looking for a friend's airplane above me and was very unimpressed when I found myself looking at myself and not being able to see out.
- There are wrinkled areas that I've been able to take some of the film off but was wondering if anyone has any suggestions on how to get the rest off of there without screwing up the window. As always thanks and safe flying.......Steve
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Matt Pope
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I haven't done it, but this video shows some interesting tips don't try the first method with the razor blade, obviously): https://www.youtube.com/shorts/fqPbDZlOxSQ
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Permalink Reply by John Austin
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BTW, if someone wants to apply tinting film to the roof window, I used Gila 5% VLT Static Cling film. As the name suggests, it adheres by static cling and has no adhesive. I applied it to the Lexan (polycarbonate) roof window on my 750 STOL years ago and have had zero problems. However, I've never had the occasion to remove it, but I would "assume" that it should peel right off. According to an AI search, Gila says definitely do not apply an adhesive film to Lexan/polycarbonate, but it's OK to use the static cling film.
John
N750A
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Permalink Reply by Steve Sickle
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Thanks, I've seen that video but issue isn't the adhesive it's the film itself. I'll keep trying till I figure something out. I sure don't want to drill all this $#@% rivets out to replace that piece.
Thanks fly often and safe.......Steve
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I'm not sure what you mean. Don't you need to soften the adhesive to release the film? Did you try soaking with soapy water under a sheet of plastic and then using a hair dryer?
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I'll try the hot water trick. I'm afraid to use a hair dryer because that plexi is so thin and I don't want to crack or distort it.
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Permalink Reply by Bob Simmons
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Never tried it myself, But WD-40 and moderate heat supposedly works. One thing to keep in mind though is age. If tint film isn't replaced every few years, the adhesive completely solidifies, and may crack rather than soften. Getting it off after that is extremely difficult, if even possible at all. DO NOT use anything with ammonia in it, or any other solvent isn't safe for Lexan. By the way, you shouldn't use tint designed for glass, on a Lexan window. They make special tint for Lexan, but it's expensive. I'd go with what John did, and use the static stuff.
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Yea I'm not the one that put that crap on there, never would have. As far as I'm concerned that's why they made hats. Thanks for all your thoughts, as much as I hate the idea I may have to replace that top piece. 😡
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