8 replies to this topic

[minilee94]

What's the best way to cut perspex I'm going to make my own rear quarters but buy some fronts and rear screen

Also what's the fitment like after taking the rear window frame apart normally with minis take something sprays it not the same again after

[b_sdaddy]

variable speed router or jigsaw is all you need.

 

variable because the friction will melt the perspex, so you need to try first on a test piece to get the speed fast enough.

 

great thing with perspex is that you can 'flame edge finish' - small handy blow torch gently over cut edges to reveal shinny edge rather than edge with saw marks.

 

If you have a choice, I find router works best.

[minilee94]

Okay thanks

[Spider]

Genuine Perspex will cut as b_sdaddy has suggested, or even a medium tooth timber saw, however some of the clear plastics that are about these days are not Perspex as break, chip and tear fairly easy, Test cut would be in order!

[petey81]

Lee didnt you buy some polycarbonate windows?

[Dan]

I have to say I wouldnt use Perspex myself, it's an acrylic and really not all that strong despite what is claimed. An impact like a stone chip will easily break a side window made from 6mm acrylic, especially if it's the cast version. It cracks and more to the point scratches quite easily. You should aim to use some poly-carbonate, Makrolon is a good brand to try to get. When I have to build protective screens and hides at work to protect people from impacts, if I use Perspex we aren't insured. See if you can find the Mythbusters clip online that showed what happened when they decided to test the acrylic blast screens they had relied on for years.

Edited by Dan, 27 December 2014 - 10:09 PM.

[Cooperman]

I have Pespex in my 'S' and have had them since I built the car in about 1994. I have rallied it, and rolled it once without damaging the windows. They are 5 mm thick and are still in great condition.

Most historic rally and race Minis use Perspex (which is actually an ICI trade name).

I have used polycarbonate, but have found it no better really. Either is OK for major weight-saving for competition and the regulations allow both.

[minilee94]

The stuff I can get is poly carbonate sorry it's lexan from a mates bus garage they use on bus stop windows etc

I am only going to make the rear quarters myself then buying fronts and rear screen from acw

Might think it's pointless me making some but at a cost of £200 for a set if I make rear front are only £70 or so

[minilee94]

And petey yeah I will be soon hopefully but just lacking funds ATM