FAL Flexite Lexan Window Kit - Turbo & High-Tech Magazine

Turp_0012_01_z+fal_flexite_lexan_window_kit+fal_windows   |   FAL Flexite Lexan Window Kit - Fast Glass

Lexan has been long recognized as an excellent way to remove weight from quarter-mile warriors and extreme street sleepers. The hurdles limiting its mainstream utilization have been cost and fit. Lexan costs a pretty penny, with a typical 4x8-foot sheet of 1/8-inch thick "non-breakable" Lexan from the local home improvement store would set you back $200 to $250. Installation of the Lexan puts a further burden on the neural synapses, as the sheets must be cut to fit the first time, or else it's back to The Home Depot. In many cases, a chassis shop or other specialty installer is called upon. The chassis shop supplies the Lexan-in most situations, higher-grade 5/16-inch sheets. The cost for a chassis shop to custom-cut and install Lexan windows runs about $1,000. It is wise to remember that, since the Lexan windows are made from flat pieces, a weatherproof seal is near impossible.

Turp_0012_03_z+fal_flexite_lexan_window_kit+removing_window   |   The first step is to remove the weather-stripping on the stock glass.

FAL has developed affordable, pre-formed Flexite(tm) window insert kits for the dietary-minded, high-performance enthusiast. Flexite is similar to Lexan, but offers more scratch resistance than its counterpart. FAL has circumvented the initial costs of Lexan by purchasing its Flexite in bulk to lower costs and FAL uses top-of-the-line 5/16-inch material. Fitment problems have been obliterated by developing a procedure to form the Flexite to the contours of the original window. Installation is a simple remove-and-replace operation, and can be done by the enthusiast or any automotive window shop. Since the kit retains the OE weather-stripping, the interior remains impervious to the elements.

Turp_0012_04_z+fal_flexite_lexan_window_kit+removing_weather_stripping   |   With a little prying, the glass should come out easily.

FAL is producing kits that consist of factory shaped left and right rear quarter glass and rear hatch window. The kits provide a weight savings of 20 to 50 lbs, depending on application. Getting DOT approval on front side windows and windshield is too difficult at this time, and there are no plans for race-only front window kits. But we suggest you call Flex-A-Lite, if they get enough interest in front glass, the company may produce it. As the accompanying installation photos illustrate, the procedure is a snap.

Turp_0012_05_z+fal_flexite_lexan_window_kit+caulking   |   After cleaning the window frame, it should be re-caulked with adhesive. WEIGHT COMPARISON   Stock FAL Flexite Rear Quarter (2) 3.5 lbs 2 lbs Rear Hatch 15.7 lbs 5 lbs Total 22.7 lbs 9 lbs Turp_0012_07_z+fal_flexite_lexan_window_kit+fal_lexan_placement   |   The original weather stripping is fitted to the FAL Flexite insert and the Flexite is then positioned in the window frame.

FAL Flexite Kit Applications List

Full Production1992-'95 Honda Civic HB1988- '91 Honda CRX

Near Production1992- '95 Honda Civic 2-dr coupe
1996- '99 Honda Civic HB
1996- '99 Honda Civic 2-dr coupe
1990- '93 Acura Integra 2-dr coupe
1994- '99 Acura Integra 2-dr coupe

The first step is to remove the weather-stripping on the stock glass.

Turp_0012_08_z+fal_flexite_lexan_window_kit+window_tape   |   Pressure is applied around the window. The window is taped in place to ensure the adhesive has a good hold.

With a little prying, the glass should come out easily.

After cleaning the window frame, it should be re-caulked with adhesive.

The original weather stripping is fitted to the FAL Flexite insert and the Flexite is then positioned in the window frame.

Pressure is applied around the window. The window is taped in place to ensure the adhesive has a good hold.