Info on wind screens / looking for a wind screen

[BimmerShark]

Hi all,

Im looking for a wind screen/deflector for my 2009 z4. Only problem is the OEM one as you all know, is way too expensive. So im hoping i can get any info on any good substitution for the OEM, or if anyone is selling theirs with no problems/ selling any other good substitution.


-also i have seen an OEM wind screen in the for sale thread but i dont know if i can just buy and install or if it needs drilling and all that jazz.
any info is greatly appriciated !!

Kind Regards

[mpbruin108]

OEM windscreen needs drilling. I got the OEM one. You have to drill into that roll cover and match up the screw opening on the inside of the screen. You have to take the roll cover apart to know what I mean. It isn't that hard but takes some time to figure out if you get crappy instructions like I did from BMW. All other substitutions I've seen don't fit quite right or they come with these velcro straps that wrap around the covers. In my opinion, it looks tacky with the top down (which is when you need the windscreen).

[E36ic4Me]

I too have the OEM unit and it is well worth the money (which isn't too bad at all). It looks like it belongs there (because it does) and it works beautifully. Aftermarket versions look dreadful, with their velcro straps hanging off and what not. Ugh! The OEM unit is not that hard to install either. I'm not very mechanically minded and I had it all together on my first attempt. Get the factory one, treat the car right!

[snk]

I have the non OEM, with crappy Velcro. You can have it if you are ever in the Bay Area or pay for shipping. I had it for a few days and decided that even though it performs well, it just looks so fugly

[Drew@Sonic MS]

There's no need for drilling with the proper roll bar covers, separate part number from the actual windscreen. Install is way easier and less time consuming. Don't think they were too much... not too sure though.

[Atebit]

I'm considering the one in this thread:

http://e89.zpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=683627

[Eltee]

I bought the clear acrylic one from Bavarian auto. I think it looks great, can't hardly see it. They have it on sale now for $225.

Had the black mesh one on the 3 Z3s I had and although they work great they do restrict your vision through rear view mirror. Kinda like the clear acrylic and the price is a little more palatable. Extremely easy install, no drilling.


http://www.bavauto.com/lview.asp?img...00/01d0032.jpg

[rking117]

I made my own out of plexiglass, maybe a bit more durable than acrylic and less flaws in the compound than acrylic so I dont see it at all when i am driving. I made my own brakets too looks very professional and performs perfect.

the materials cost aroudn $50.00 US.

I thought about making these and selling them as I still have the original template that i created.

I can take photos and upload if you are interested.

[E36ic4Me]

The problem with the plexiglass material is that over time, they develop swirls in them. This leads to distorted vision, especially at night. I've had many different windblockers on many different convertibles and have never had a positive (longterm) plexiglass experience.

[ZheHbKa]

Originally Posted by rking117

I made my own out of plexiglass, maybe a bit more durable than acrylic and less flaws in the compound than acrylic so I dont see it at all when i am driving. I made my own brakets too looks very professional and performs perfect.

the materials cost aroudn $50.00 US.

I thought about making these and selling them as I still have the original template that i created.

I can take photos and upload if you are interested.

pics please

[Atebit]

How are these at night? Do headlights or streetlights cause glare or reflections?

[E36ic4Me]

Yes! That is one of my biggest reasons for disliking the plexiglass version!! When they are new, its ok. The longer you have them, the more distorted the night view becomes. After a while, it looks like some kind of crazy light show trying to look through it at night!! Also, when the interior mirror dims at night, it can cause a very odd '3D' effect with lights and vehicles behind you. Not good. I won't even drive my Father's roadster at night anymore because of his plexiglass windblocker.

Woo-Hoo, I just noticed that this is my 100th post! HaHa!

[Atebit]

Ur Windschott claims to be made of "Einscheibensicherheitsglas" which is apparently what we call tempered glass in the US. So maybe not as susceptible as plexiglass to abrasions with reasonable care ?

[rking117]

Originally Posted by E36ic4Me

The problem with the plexiglass material is that over time, they develop swirls in them.

I am wondering if this had to do with the type of cleaners and/or cloths that were used which could scratch it. I will certainly test for this.

Also As for a glas version, i do have the ability to do that too, but the cost is going to be greater. I would have to price it out. The concern i have about glass it weight.

[HerrK]

Originally Posted by rking117

I am wondering if this had to do with the type of cleaners and/or cloths that were used which could scratch it. I will certainly test for this.

Also As for a glas version, i do have the ability to do that too, but the cost is going to be greater. I would have to price it out. The concern i have about glass it weight.

Weight???

Glass version - 1.5 x Cost of plexiglass & less than 1 lb heavier than equivalent plexiglass. I haven't been able to notice any vehicular performance, nor scratch issues to date. Mounts to roll bar covers same as the BMW windscreen. No sticky tape.

[Colorado]

Hello Bimmer Shark
I have a 2012 Z4 and settled on a wind breaker from Roadstersolutions.com $249.95. Uses 3M 2 sided tape. Looks good. Was an easy install. The company recommends Meguiars Mirror Glaze #10 for cleaning. It is a clear plastic polish. I bought the polish at a pilot shop at the airport.

Good Luck.

[TitanTim]

I've got the Roadster Solutions deflector fitted and very pleased with it, the glass can be lifted out if required. For me it looks far better and performs just as well as the OEM deflector.







Tim.

[BMWE934me]

Originally Posted by TitanTim

I've got the Roadster Solutions deflector fitted and very pleased with it, the glass can be lifted out if required. For me it looks far better and performs just as well as the OEM deflector.







Tim.

Looks good. Nice install. I got a good deal on the stock mesh one and installed that yesterday, but it is probably a nicer view from your rear view mirror than mine.

[TitanTim]

Cheers, I was dubious about the self adhesive brackets but needn't have worried as they go on very firm and the glass keeps firm pressure on them. Only disadvantage it doesn't fold down.

Tim.

[wdlfbio]

I have the RoadsterSolutions as well and love the look. I clean it with Plexus spray cleaner. Seems to work just fine. I use the stuff on my boat window screens also.

http://www.plexusplasticcleaner.com/plexus.html

I do have a gripe with the Roadster wind screen though. I get a rattle from the wind hiting it. If I push against it, the rattle goes away. I think it needs a third mount, on the bottom. In fairness, I have not talked with them yet. We have about 2k miles on ours.