Glass choice
 

I don't think I'll find anyone has an easy answer to this, but hey it's a New Year, so lets see where it goes................
If building a special the glass can be the most costly item (due to on-off nature), or most difficult to track down (there must be something affordable that fits!) - So.... does anyone know of a resource that has (at least) info on approximate sizes so that some likely contenders can either be eliminated or researched further. Going around a "scrapyard/breakers/recycling centre" doesn't seem possible any more, and measuring up glass in the supermarket car park raises suspicion:icon_frown:

Interesting question

I think if building a special it needs to be built round an existing screen so google loads of cars To find a screen shape you'd like and then work from that....

Indeed - It's the 'next step' I'm trying to make easier!

I've been running around supermarket parking lots with a tape measure for years!

Yes but that's another story. And 5-0 want to talk to you about it ....

But I've never found anything suitable either!

Joe Pasquali?

Would it be any use to have a chat with someone who works for someone like autoglass? Just thinking as they work with various windscreens all day, they must get to know certain shapes, quirks and sizes.

Most modern screens are bonded (glued) in these days and tend to be far more swept back than classic screens.

I'd start by choosing a screen from an old Triumph, MG, Ford or even AC Cobra and working from there. They would look right, will be relatively cheap and can easily be replaced if broken.

The other alternative is to do without a full screen and go with a perspex wind deflector instead for the period racing car look. That would be much easier and cheaper to do whilst also doing away with the need for a wash/wipe system.

Best to go to a car show, nothing too fancy, they can get a bit funny if they catch you crawling over the Ferrari's bonnet with tape measure in hand.
The one I just attended at Brooklands would have been ideal, old Fiats, Simcas and common cars from the 60's,70's and 80's.
You tend to pick out what will work and what won't. A lot of stuff that you forgot about because you simply don't see them around.

Thanks for the ideas thus far. I think modern glass is the way because it needs to be marked E4 to pass IVA. Surely there must be some catalogue somewhere - or are all screen just identified by make/model and no dimensions given? That would make sense, but doesn't help us "off piste" builders. I don't know what others are finding, but (after a good old-fashioned one burnt down) our local breakers (even in Norfolk) don't seem to have any parts, just seem intent on crushing everything.

Pilkington glass offer an extensive array of classic windscreens and will also undertake bespoke manufacture or one-offs.
Start with looking at their classic and kit car section. No dimensions I am afraid but will give you a good understanding of what might work for your project.
You can then create a short list and start searching for dimensions. Contacting owners clubs and visiting classic car shows, auctions and garages.

https://www.pilkington.com/en-gb/uk/...kes-and-models