rear screen Pantera.

The big rear window is held in with a gasket just like the windshield. I've has mine out twice without disturbing the engine or even the engine covers. The gasket and window can be worked out starting from the top center or one corner; rubber lube might help. And remember, you're not trying to save the broken glass so just push it out toward the engine. Some vendors have glass and Lucite replacements in stock- that window is the easiest to repro 'cause its flat.

Most any glass shop can cut you a new piece from automotive safety glass. Bring your broken glass in as a template. I broke my glass during reinstallation a few years ago due to my impatience. I seem to remember it cost about $100 to replace.

thanks Guy's

Simon

Simon;
I recently installed a Lexan rear window which I cut a little larger than the original glass and placed it inside the passenger compartment against the pinch weld rather than having to use glass and the rubber molding. I used 4 screws, both across the upper & lower edges and one screw at both ends. Should I need to access the top front of the engine, I can simply take the Lexan out. Since I just went through restoration, I have not used any sealant at this time (may need to access front of engine); however, I plan to place a bead of black caulking around the outer edge of the Lexan when I decide I will not have to access the engine compartment. Should I need to access after caulking, I will simply pull the caulking off and take out the screws. Don't know what restrictions you may have with vehicle inspections, but I had no problem.

Hello JAG13CAT,
thats a good idée but how about the engine noise?
Simon

There have been a few Panteras with repro DOUBLE-PANE rear windows just for that purpose. Sadly, it only took out 1.0 dB of noise in the cabin, according to my measurements on our '72-1/2. The weight increase was also modest since the second slightly smaller 'pane' was Lucite on the one I have.

quote:

Originally posted by Simon:
thats a good idée but how about the engine noise?

Don't you mean "soundtrack"?

When my interior is done I plan on making a metal insert to the window rubber with tabs. At that point I am going to make a glass with a shape which will bolt in place with the tabs making the window removable with bolts.

Simon; I really don't have a way of measuring the cabin sound nor do I have a reference of before/after, glass vs. Lexan or by comparing it to another vehicle. Since I only drive locally and short runs, I have not had a problem with the sound being a problem - actually music to my ears. I can carry on a conversation in the vehicle while driving.

Jag, I've been using a Radio Shack dB meter (made in China for them) since the '80s. This is the same $29 meter the CHP uses (or used to use, as well as Laguna Seca and Sears Point). Tracks will black flag you for excessive noise and if you argue, will bar you from future entry so its good to know if you're marginal. Radio Shack is no longer around but a quick Google search finds dozens of substitutes. There's even an app for smart phones to download a dB meter. No excuses any more!

Bosswrench;
Thanks for the info on a dB meter, especially a phone app. Curious as to what is the dB reading for a stock configuration?