How does the windscreen work?
The windscreen works by blocking the back draft that enters the cockpit through the rear of the vehicle (between the seats). When driving with the top down, you have wind entering the vehicle from the sides (windows) and the from the rear (back draft). This "collision" of wind in the cockpit creates a lot of turbulence and wind noise. By blocking the back draft with the windscreen, you are essentially reducing the amount of wind which enters the cockpit and reducing the amount of turbulence. This results in a # of benefits, including:
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Driver and passenger are able to communicate more easily (without screaming or yelling at each other)
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Easier to talk (and hear) on your cell phone or Onstar.
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Easier to maintain a constant temperature in the cockpit.
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Less wind creates a more comfortable and enjoyable drive.
I see other companies selling similar windscreens for $100 - $250 each. Why is your's so much less expensive?
There are a few reasons why I can offer an excellent product for a much lower cost. First, I make these in my spare time at my job. We have a family owned metal fabricating business in which we have 3 high speed CNC lasers. Simply put, I am able to cut each one of these at cost (I don't have to pay a third party to make them for me). Second, I purchase the acrylic directly from the manufacturer, and since our company does purchase a lot of plastics, we are able to receive very competitive prices. Finally, I don't require a large profit margin on each one I sell. I am not a company with overhead. This is not my only source of income. I am simply an individual (with a regular job) who makes these on the side for a little additional income. I just have the advantage of the fact that I get to use all of our company's equipment at cost.
Your windscreen is 1/8" thick. Is this thick enough?
When I originally decided to design and make my own windscreen, I started out using 1/4" thick acrylic. I researched what other companies were doing, and most of them seemed to be using 1/8" thick, so I figured why not go twice as thick as what others are doing....because thicker should be better right? The first 2 prototypes I made were from 1/4" thick....and it became apparent very fast that this was simply too thick. Since it mounts in between the deck and the trunk lid, using 1/4" thick material made it rather difficult to close the trunk. Believe me, I've tried different thicknesses and the best option in my opinion is the 1/8" thick. It's sturdy enough to not vibrate but not too thick so as the deck lid won't close. Anything thinner is too flimsy and anything thicker makes it considerably more difficult to close the trunk.
Are there any obstruction issues?
No. Clear Acrylic offers 92% of total white light transmittance, the highest transmittance physically possible of any material. It is as transparent as the finest optical glass. The tinted windscreen is just like looking through a tinted piece of glass.
Are there any alterations or modification made to the car to install this product?
No. It's as simple as removing 4 screws, installing the hardware and windscreen, and then reinstalling the screws.
What happens if I accidently scratch the windscreen?
If you take your time when cleaning it and use only a clean soft cloth with water and a soft detergent (no Windex or glass cleaner), scratches should not be an issue. However, if for some reason you do end up scratching it and want to remove it...check at your local auto parts store for Novus Plastic Polish. It can also be found on Ebay. It is designed specifically for plastics and will polish out the scratches and make your windsceen look like new.
Does the windscreen block all the wind?
Absolutely not. That would kind of defeat the purpose of having a convertible right? This product blocks the back draft (wind coming in from the back of the vehicle). When driving with the top down and the windows down, you still get a good amount of wind. The main purpose of the windscreen is to block the backdraft, thus creating less wind, less wind noise, and less turbulance in the cockpit. This is where the wind screen is most helpful.
Can the windscreen be left in place with the top up?
Yes! Top up or down....you just install it and forget about it. The only "maintainance" that is required is to check the tightness of the screws every few weeks.
Do you offer etching or illumination for your windscreen?
No. One of the reasons I am able to sell these for such a low price is the fact that am able to mass produce these. Etching and illumination is more of a custom product which requires a considerable amount of time for each windscreen.
I'm concerned about the windscreen touching the rear glass when the top is up. Is this a problem?
With every windscreen I ship, I provide clear, self adhesive bumbers that can be installed on the rear window or on the windscreen which prevents the windscreen from touching the rear glass. This is completely optional....I personally don't use them on my car but they are provided in case others want to.
Does it store easlily in the trunk when not being used?
With this windscreen, you do not have to uninstall it when you have the top up. However if you do remove it, it fits perfectly in the trunk and lays flat.
How often do you ship?
I ship everyday. I have daily UPS pickup and the local post office is only about a 5 minute drive. If you purchase one, I guarantee it will ship no later than the following day. Since UPS Ground doesn't run on Saturday, any windscreens purchased over the weekend will be shipped on the following Monday. Tracking #s are always provided and shipping insurance is included with the shipping cost.
I've tried to answer the most common questions.....but if you have any other ones please email me and I'll be glad to answer them for you!