5 replies to this topic

[-Dab-of-Oppo-]

I have modified aftermarket wing mirrors fitted and to work on them I had to smash the original glass to get access to the innards. :-(



I have cut some of this plastic mirror sheet to shape and got it to fit in perfectly. It looks great but the clarity of image viewed through them is just not good enough and objects appear distorted and a bit magnified therefore I really need to replace with proper mirrored glass.





After much research into the elusive company that produces them I have concluded that replacement glass is not available to buy seperatly. I am loath to pay around £70 for a new pair of complete mirror units only to have to undertake the risky task of disecting the glass out of the casing.

It is my belief that the glass is a bespoke shape suited only to this wing mirror and is not a common part shared with any other OEM offerings. If anyone can think of a readilly available glass panel used in a different vehicle that is of a very similar shape then I am all ears. I don't mind if it's not quite a perfect fit as long as it is not odd looking and serves it purpose.

So my main question is what are my chances of cutting my own accuratly sized replacements from sheet glass? If it is even possible to cut a curved shape accuratly by hand what tools would I need and how should I go about it? Are any particular grades or thicknesses of mirror best suited to this?

Alternatively if anyone has got the tools or neccessary means at their disposal that they could do it for me if I was to send them the plastic ones as templates, I would happilly pay them for their expertise.

Any help or advice appreciated...

[Dan 4]

I wonder if it would be possible to score the glass sheet enough with a tile cutter to the break the excess glass off leaving you with the shape needed for your mirror??

[ghand]

You can cut curves and it will follow the score line and then run off.So you can cut the shape out with some straight lines and slight curves.You can sort of nibble the glass edge to get a rough shape then smooth it all out with a emmery stone.But it will take a fair bit of elbow grease.Its like when you do a ceramic tile but a lot harder. Try a few cuts on the big bit of the old one to give you an idea, glass cutter or tile cutter and pliers,we have smooth edged pliers,wider and ftater than normal but you will have to use what you have.

Edited by ghand, 05 February 2012 - 04:24 PM.

[JG]

I've got one of these


A diamond glass cutter, that will cut curves. Though scoring round a shape is quite challenging. Also i think with mirror glass you have to cut the backing separately which is also a challenge.

[Craig S]

Try a local glazier? my local one cuts glass or mirrors for a few quid.

[ghand]

Try a local glazier? my local one cuts glass or mirrors for a few quid.

Now that is a good plan.