Creek Kid Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 I've got an older Shappell Minuteman that I love except for the fact that it only has one window. It has the blue tarp-type material. I have thought many times about adding a window. I thought of using the material that is used in meat coolers at large supermarkets. Ya know those clear plastic strips that hang down. Has anyone done this? Does anyone know where I could buy some of this material? What other material could be used? What about stitching? If anyone has done this please let me know. What "not to do" is as valuable as "what to do". Anyone willing to share some experience with this? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 Find yourself an awning/boat cover place. These folks repair/make boat covers , tents etc for a living and can put a window in wherever you want at a reasonable price. I had a local awning guy make a whole new cover for my Fish Trap Pro a couple years ago. Turned out excelent ,windows and all ! Had a buddy get a new window put in on one of his portables too. I THINK it cost him about $15 - 20 or so.I have an old Minute Man II and know the material your talkin about. Personaly , I would leave adding a new window to a pro instead of taking it on myself. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MnIceman Posted October 8, 2002 Share Posted October 8, 2002 Creek Kid: It's been a few years but I have done that before.Went to Menards and bought this Heavy super clear plastic that comes on rolls and is rolled up with a tissue paper. It used to be available in a couple of different thicknesses(mils).Get the thickest because the thinner stuff breaks easier in the cold (been there,done that).I found it with the window plastics. Then I bought a heavy needle and a thicker nylon thread. Locate the window so that when you fold up the fish house it can lay flat or have a gentle roll to it. This will help give the window longer life. Cut out your window in the material and then cut your plastic 2-3" bigger than the hole in both directions. Next attach the plastic to the material with duct tape on the inside.With a friend,pass the needle and thread back and forth from inside to outside every 1/8" or so in a line all the way around the window. Make sure you use a few pieces of thread and tie it off once in awhile so it doesn't fall apart if a thread gets cut.After going around once , sew it over again so that you cover the blank areas between the stitches inside and out. If you don't mind the look of duct tape you can sew right thru it and it'll help the strength of the plastic. I have been known to duct tape a window in for replacement and last for years of abuse without falling apart.Both materials must be clean and warm. It takes patience, so if you don't have that this might not be for you.Good Luck ! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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