I have the task of replacing the windshield in a 1976 AA-5B Tiger. It appears from the maintenance manual the windshield/cabin bow normally comes attached, however the new one I received (Great Lakes Aero plastic) is just the new Plexiglas without any attaching hardware. The install kit consists of a tube of adhesive.

The new windshield is also about an 1/8″ thicker than the original. Not unusual for new windows to be thicker, but does the Tiger present any unusual challenges I need to consider?

Any words of wisdom would be appreciated.

Jeff

Hi Jeff,

I just noticed this looking for something else and it had not been addressed so here’s the short version.

Beginning in 1977 the 1/4″ windshields were used along with thicker aft windows.  It is no real trick to put the thicker one in (and no one makes the 1/8″ anymore).  Back in the ’70s when you could order parts from the factory, the windshields did come bonded to the bow.  We haven’t ween that availability for over 35 years.  There are a couple of videos on the GPA YouTube channel which deal with the installation.  There are a couple or three ways to go about it and I have a DVD of doing it our way.  Not sure if any of the GPA ones were from us or not.  There are a lot of tricks to know and special help aids to make that get the job done successfully.  We are right now spending more time than a fresh installation would take just trying to make pone fit somewhat correctly that the installer really screwed up.  All I can say is that you need to watch the videos and ask questions afterwards before attempting it.  I certainly can’t tell you in an e-mail, or on the phone, all you need to know.

Also be aware that beyond answering some questions, I may need to make a charge for consulting time.

Ken Blackman

Air Mods N.W.

guru@airmodsnw.com

425-334-3030