Thicker windows

[Htwjr]

I am ready to replace the side windows in my C model and I am planning on using the solar grey ones.  Are the thicker windows worth the extra cost?  Are they substantially quieter in a C?  Any advice appreciated.

[Guest]

I installed 1/4" windows in my E model as well as replacing the cabin insulation and sealing any air leaks I could find.  The cabin was still noisy, a good ANR headset is just as effect and is portable.

Clarence

[Raptor05121]

Save the $$, weight, and complexity of install. Get stock and wear a headset.

[TTaylor]

I did 1/4" a few years ago and if I had it to do over I would go with 3/16" for the side windows.  I would do 1/4" on the front for safety but for ease of installation the 3/16" (or even stock 1/8") on the side widows.  I don't think they make any difference in noise and the thicker windows add weight and are much less flexible so harder to install.

Edited February 27, 2016 by TTaylor

[Bob_Belville]

I went with 3/16" solar gray from GLAP all around a few months ago. The installation was straight forward. I have the LASAR 201 windshield mod and 1/4" there would be quite a bit more installation time. The rear windows were 1/8" originally ('66E).

On balance, I think I made the right choices.

[Bob_Belville]

I suspect that a lot of the noise, as well as cabin heat comes from the firewall. It's tough to insulate those irregular surfaces behind the panel, rudder pedals, etc. My '66 had the original (filthy, oily, hydraulicy) insulation hanging loose in that area when I got her. I've been in there a half dozen times working on it. Need to be a jockey sized contortionist. 

Dave, would you venture to guess how much your improvement was due to insulation vs. window thickness? 

[MyNameIsNobody]

If you are going to talk weight penalty for side windows in 1/4 inch say what it is. A pound?  I had zero difficulty with install. Non-issue. No difference from stock. It reduced vibration and the resultant fatigue. That was huge and worth the cost. Difference in price again was minimal from stock. Yes, still 90db, so a good ANR is mandatory for comfort. Unless you fly a lot, it is no big deal for hearing loss. 

Edited February 27, 2016 by MyNameIsNobody

[outermarker]

Happy to read this topic...I am in the early stages of window replacement and paint...and if I click my heels three times perhaps a new interior too???

[Bob_Belville]

46 minutes ago, outermarker said:

Happy to read this topic...I am in the early stages of window replacement and paint...and if I click my heels three times perhaps a new interior too???

There plenty of info on redoing interiors here too.

[Wildhorsesracing]

I replaced my windows a few years ago to 3/16" and didn't notice any difference in sound or vibration.  I did the side windows in gray and windshield in clear, the gray just looked "dirty" all the time.  I have to replace them after stripping the paint off last year so I am going back to stock thickness and clear all the way around.

[Bob_Belville]

9 hours ago, Wildhorsesracing said:

I replaced my windows a few years ago to 3/16" and didn't notice any difference in sound or vibration.  I did the side windows in gray and windshield in clear, the gray just looked "dirty" all the time.  I have to replace them after stripping the paint off last year so I am going back to stock thickness and clear all the way around.

I like he 3/16" solar gray I installed a few months ago all around. Really like the extra vent window in the door! Cross ventilation and access to the outside door handle in an emergency.

[outermarker]

I like that idea of a right side vent window. Did it require any paperwork to be approved?

 

[Bob_Belville]

1 hour ago, outermarker said:

I like that idea of a right side vent window. Did it require any paperwork to be approved?

 

http://www.glapinc.com/cart/product_info.php?cPath=639_144_443_146&products_id=1270

Great Lakes has the appropriate approvals. 

Item: Door window Assembly
For Make: Mooney
Approved for Models:
M20C (2742C, 2807C THRU 3466C, 670001C THRU 20-1185),
M20D (252D THRU 260D),
M20E (400, 470E THRU 1308E, 670001E THRU 20-1180),
M20F (660003, 660004, 670001 THRU 22-1305),
M20G (680001G THRU 7000006G)