Lazy Daze Owners' Group

Lazy Daze Forums => Lazy Daze Renovations & Improvements => Topic started by: Ed & Margee on April 01, 2019, 02:17:40 pm

Title: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Ed & Margee on April 01, 2019, 02:17:40 pm
We are considering buying an external windshield cover that also covers the side windows.  Right now we use interior sun screens.   We’d be grateful for recommendations since there seems to be lots of choices.   As always thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: pdl2win on April 01, 2019, 02:39:39 pm
we absolutely love the one we purchased directly from Lazy Daze!
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Joan on April 01, 2019, 03:30:12 pm
Ed, you might want to look at this company's products:

Motorhome RV Windshield Covers Class C - Sunpro Mfg (https://sunpromfg.com/sunpro-suntex-90-class-c-windshield-covers/)
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Jim & Gayle on April 01, 2019, 03:38:40 pm
What Joan said. We are on our second mesh protector in black. The first was 85% in burgundy and faded a good but. The second is 90% which they claim holds up better.

The one complaint is the elastic they use to secure it to the upper back corner of the doors tends to get weak over time. With the second we ordered the kit to allow us to secure the bottom corner with the twisting metal piece that was already installed by LD for the white vinyl cover and eliminated the elastic from that lower section.

We also have the solid white vinyl which we never use but will when we leave the LD parked this summer.

Class C Windshield Cover - A Better Way to RV (https://sunpromfg.com/class-c-windshield-cover/)

Jim
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Lazy Bones on April 01, 2019, 04:37:59 pm
"...love the one we purchased directly from Lazy Daze!"

Can you see through it from the inside? That may be okay for storage but not for living!

The 'see through' types are much preferable while temporarily camping. I find them a nuisance to put on and take off if you're only going to be there for a day or two.  ::) 
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Ed & Margee on April 01, 2019, 04:46:21 pm
Can you see through it from the inside?

We'd prefer a cover that doesn't allow people to see in at night when the lights are on.  And the price is a bit more than we hoped to spend.  Right now, our inside sunscreens provides some relief from outside heat, cold and gives us privacy.    I don't know. 
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Jim & Gayle on April 01, 2019, 05:31:52 pm
We'd prefer a cover that doesn't allow people to see in at night when the lights are on.  And the price is a bit more than we hoped to spend.  Right now, our inside sunscreens provides some relief from outside heat, cold and gives us privacy.    I don't know. 

How about this for $35. Amazon.com: Mofeez RV Class C Ford 1997-2018 Windshield Cover (RV Motorhome... (https://www.amazon.com/Mofeez-1997-2018-Windshield-Motorhome-Cutouts/dp/B07LF19VBS/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1_sspa?keywords=Adco+white+windshield+cover+Ford+Class+C+2009&qid=1554154262&s=automotive&sr=1-1-fkmrnull-spons&psc=1)

Jim
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: rodneyhelfrich on April 01, 2019, 07:51:01 pm
We use the external vinyl and internal hand cut reflectix sun screens.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on April 01, 2019, 08:17:07 pm
3 1/2 years later and our Exterior vinyl cover purchased and installed the day we picked up the rig at the Mothership is still going strong. It gets used every time we camp out. Hasn’t failed and no one can see inside the rig. If I want to look outside I pick one of the available windows in the coach. Or step outside and get an even closer look. 🧐

Something I’ve done for a couple of years now is to first lay down a “truck sized” windshield cover (you know those foldable silver accordion ones) on the outside of the cab windshield and then install the vinyl window cover that covers all cab glass. Installs in a minute and removes just as quickly. Cost at the factory for the vinyl was $150 and they installed the clips on the doors. Along with the actual RB and the inside vent covers, it was money well spent.

One thing I like about it is the fact that I can keep the cab opened to the coach making it feel even larger inside and I haven’t used the cab/coach curtain in all this time.

Kent
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Ed & Margee on April 01, 2019, 09:33:49 pm
One of these days, one of our plans to change, add, or upgrade our LD will be as easy as buying a can of Spam.  I'm looking forward to that day!   :)
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Chris Horst on April 01, 2019, 10:52:35 pm
3 1/2 years later and our Exterior vinyl cover purchased and installed the day we picked up the rig at the Mothership is still going strong. It gets used every time we camp out. Hasn’t failed and no one can see inside the rig. If I want to look outside I pick one of the available windows in the coach. Or step outside and get an even closer look. 🧐

Something I’ve done for a couple of years now is to first lay down a “truck sized” windshield cover (you know those foldable silver accordion ones) on the outside of the cab windshield and then install the vinyl window cover that covers all cab glass. Installs in a minute and removes just as quickly. Cost at the factory for the vinyl was $150 and they installed the clips on the doors. Along with the actual RB and the inside vent covers, it was money well spent.

One thing I like about it is the fact that I can keep the cab opened to the coach making it feel even larger inside and I haven’t used the cab/coach curtain in all this time.

Kent
I use the vinyl cover regularly. It was free with the LD in '02.  :)  Do you put down the windshield cover (sun screen) to provide insulation/protection from the sun? If so, seems like a good idea.

Chris
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on April 02, 2019, 01:08:19 am
Chris,

Exactly. Stops the heat on the outside rather than trap it inside after the heat has passed through the glass. No scientific research but as you said it just made sense.

Kent
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Larry W on April 02, 2019, 03:20:25 am
The second is 90% which they claim holds up better.

We also have the solid white vinyl which we never use but will when we leave the LD parked this summer.

We love the 90% screen cover, it blocks out the heat but not the view. It's a one-way view, during daylight hours. The cover is white, to reflect as much heat as possible. It seems to work as well as the solid cover in reflecting sunlight.
At night, we pull the cab curtains close, for privacy.

The solid vinyl cover, that came with our 2003 LD, is never used, it's stored away somewhere in the garage..
We used one on our 1983 LD a few times and hated how it darkened the interior, during the daytime. It didn't seem to help keep the interior much cooler than a see-thru cover, A DIY project, made from shade cloth.

In extreme temps, a heavy floor to ceiling fleece curtain is hung from the bunk, sealing off the cab from the coach.
For everyday used, a short curtain is left hung from the bunk, normally it is flipped up on the bunk.
It's handy when stopping to shop, eat or explore.
Pull the short curtain down, leave the the radio turned up loud and take off. The curtain completely cuts off the view into the coach.

Larry
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Joan on April 02, 2019, 09:13:05 am
"The solid vinyl cover, that came with our 2003 LD, is never used, it's stored away somewhere in the garage.."
---
The vinyl windshield cover, the little 'wedgie' cushions for the couches, and the 'frozen juice can' freezer door rack share a storage bag in my garage.

As ever, YMMV!  ;) 
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Linda Hylton on April 02, 2019, 10:45:46 am
My concern with the outside covers, other than when the rig is in storage, is that if you need to make a quick get-away for whatever reason, you wouldn't be able to do it with the covers on.  That's why I like the interior reflective covers.  We bought ours from High End Motorsports (https://www.high-end-motorsports.com/shop-by-category-sunshade.html)
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Kenneth Fears on April 02, 2019, 04:11:47 pm
I used the exterior opaque white vinyl cover from the factory for my first few years.  Then, I just stopped.  The forward cab curtain that obscures the front of the cab is translucent (some light comes through) but no shapes can be distinguished through it, day or night, so I have privacy.

If privacy is the concern, the cab curtain should be sufficient.  If you want to keep the sun out of the cab, an exterior vinyl cover would do it.  If your rig already has the clips installed for mounting the cover, I would bet you could find a friend who would let you try his to see if that is what you want.  If the clips are not installed, you probably should look for some other alternative.

Ken F in NM
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: sdever2000 on April 02, 2019, 09:28:06 pm
I've cut reflectix to fit the front window when the heat coming in is too much & I use the curtains for privacy at night.

I'm a fresh air lover though, so last spring i bought a set of Skeeter Beaters. They are mosquito netting sized to fit E-450 side windows & attach with magnets. They let the breeze in but people can't see in in daylight & they work beautifully at keeping those pesky flying critters out.
Susie
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: colddog on April 03, 2019, 10:44:55 am
"The solid vinyl cover, that came with our 2003 LD, is never used, it's stored away somewhere in the garage.."
---
The vinyl windshield cover, the little 'wedgie' cushions for the couches, and the 'frozen juice can' freezer door rack share a storage bag in my garage.

As ever, YMMV!  ;)

Joan, without those little 'wedgie' cushions my wife and I would not have anything to fight about at night when making our beds ......... <smile>
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: John DaCrema on April 03, 2019, 07:19:52 pm
A friend sold his class C for a class A.  He gave me his front shade.  It is like the factory one but has screens for the side windows.  They will let a nice flow of air through the rv.  The screens are covered with a flap that is held in place with Velcro so if you want the windows closed you have that option.  I have no idea where they got it.  But I like it very much.

I can not use the kind that allows you to see out while people outside can not see in.  To much visual stimulation for the two doggies.

John
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: desertdivanm on April 10, 2019, 03:08:31 pm
Currently unavailable.
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.  :'(

How about this for $35. Amazon.com: Mofeez RV Class C Ford 1997-2018 Windshield Cover (RV Motorhome... (https://www.amazon.com/Mofeez-1997-2018-Windshield-Motorhome-Cutouts/dp/B07LF19VBS/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1_sspa?keywords=Adco+white+windshield+cover+Ford+Class+C+2009&qid=1554154262&s=automotive&sr=1-1-fkmrnull-spons&psc=1)

Jim
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Jim Langley on April 10, 2019, 04:02:11 pm
We are considering buying an external windshield cover that also covers the side windows.  Right now we use interior sun screens.   We’d be grateful for recommendations since there seems to be lots of choices.   As always thanks in advance.

Hi Ed,
We have been very happy with this one from Adco (the link is to it on Amazon) and the price is very reasonable I think - at about $40:
Amazon.com: ADCO 2407 White Class C Ford 1997-2008 Windshield Cover (RV... (https://amzn.to/2X03TH8)

Hope this helps,
Jim & Deb
Santa Cruz, CA
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Jota on April 10, 2019, 07:50:54 pm
I tried one for about a month. Hated it from the beginning, it never fit back into the container it came in, not even close.
When it was wet, what do you do with it? Where do you store it?
I ended up using a inside reflective one and close the factory curtains.

When my beige curtain finally fails, I plan to have a blackout material replacement made.
One that is about 6 inches longer than the factory one. That would provide a nice dark solution
that allows quick get away in the event of a hastened departure.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Ed & Margee on April 10, 2019, 08:13:53 pm
This has been a lively discussion which has been helpful.  Thanks to all who contributed. 
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Chris Horst on April 10, 2019, 10:38:01 pm
This has been a lively discussion which has been helpful.  Thanks to all who contributed. 
If you do buy one, Ed, this tip is not to insult your intelligence, but make sure you clean the windshield before putting on the cover. Having seen photos of your pristine roof, I probably didn't need to post this.

Chris
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Mstroud66 on June 06, 2019, 06:01:11 am
Joan, are you interested in selling your LD external window covering?  We have a 2003 MB.
Thank you!
-Marcy
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Joan on June 06, 2019, 10:01:43 am
PM sent to Marcy.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Ted H. on June 27, 2019, 10:44:51 am
The only time we used the external cover was when the LD was parked between trips. In fact, we never even bothered to take it with us when on the road. At night we just closed the interior cab curtain for privacy. During the day Puddy-Tat loved stretching out on the dash, belly to the sun.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: 73gitane on June 12, 2021, 04:10:23 pm
Anyone use one of these?

Amazon.com: BougeRV RV Windshield Window Snow Cover for Class C Ford... (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B088WZ28RD?pf_rd_r=QES147ZB4AFD8SHYMW0H&pf_rd_p=5ae2c7f8-e0c6-4f35-9071-dc3240e894a8&pd_rd_r=c1b4c2e4-ce2e-4d0c-9867-505078a0c93f&pd_rd_w=tpfbV&pd_rd_wg=nJsxG&ref_=pd_gw_unk)

Looking for one that offers insulation.

Thanks,
Steve
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: RonB on June 12, 2021, 04:29:42 pm
Thanks Steve for mentioning these. I don't spend time in the snow, but I find my cover useful in sunlight when the A/C is running.  The comment about ensuring privacy doesn't hold true with the magnet being all that holds down the corners.   RonB
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: winnie114 on June 12, 2021, 04:44:29 pm
I have an older cover for the 2002 24ft TK. It is not insulated so I slide reflectix between the windshield and cover. The cover has
the loop at the top to slip onto the door. The bottom two edges have a metal button like hole The LD door has a fastener that slips through the hole to secure the bottom edges.

It is a very tight fit. Also have sttaps that velcro around both mirrors.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: 73gitane on June 12, 2021, 07:08:30 pm
I have the factory included vinyl cover as well and used it last winter. We are full timers. The vinyl certainty helped in freezing temps but I like the idea of an insulated one for next winter. I’m thinking it will help in hot weather too.

I’ve thought of using insulation between the vinyl cover and windshield but the factory vinyl cover fits so dang tight I didn’t want to go that route.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Charles & Donna on June 12, 2021, 07:53:09 pm
We have the factory included vinyl cover also and have used it a few times. Didn't care for the mess and hassle getting it on and off and stored. And what do you do with hang tabs, site assignment slips, etc,? We now have this set FORD E-SERIES VAN & MOTORHOME SUNSHADE (https://www.high-end-motorsports.com/ford-econolinevan-sun-shade.html) and like it.

Charles

Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: tedeboy on June 12, 2021, 08:51:04 pm
I got this one:
I like having the side windows free.

http://www.etrailer.com/Covers/etrailer/e98899.html?feed=npn&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Google%20%7C%20Shop%20-%20Low%20Volume%20-%201900&adgroupid=122586045740&campaignid=10268224741&creative=519192903740&device=m&devicemodel=&feeditemid=&keyword=&loc_interest_ms=&loc_physical_ms=9033035&matchtype=&network=g&placement=&position=&gclid=CjwKCAjwtpGGBhBJEiwAyRZX2m8k2cml55XLA7dpFlzN8nJ4C1wHI5wMu8Cf6kGw2MpnZ69PUusW_xoCdUcQAvD_BwE
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: KJWarner on June 12, 2021, 10:24:30 pm
Steve
We bought that one for our 2021 MB. It is OK has straps that go over the top corner of the door Velcro around the mirrors and magnets on the lower door corner. The insulation appears to have some value and I suspect we will appreciate even more in hot weather. So far our only use is storage at home and a month working our way up the Oregon coast. Todd tried to talk me into one of their covers which I gather attach with screws. I did not want to worry about potential corrosion around the snaps and declined. After putting this on and off a number of times I can understand why they use snaps. Our last RV was a Winnebago Aspect which had a small overhang and putting on the cover was a piece of cake. On the LD with its large cab over and tight clearance not so easy. I now leave one of the cab windows down to make it easier to work the strap over the corner. I think that anyone the vinyl covers will have the same problem.  Good luck.

Ken
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: StevenJill on June 13, 2021, 08:17:08 am
We bought one from Amazon last year when I knew we was going camping in the summer if Florida, it also is now unavailable. We have used it a few times. We go camping once a month, probably use it 20% of the time.  I used it when it is really hot and not so many trees.  This time of year I will be using it again along with the reflectux in the vents and skylight.  When we don't use it I just use the curtains for privacy. During the day sometimes I may open the curtains to see out the front.
I would buy it again.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: pdl2win on June 13, 2021, 09:12:03 am
We use the custom fit vinyl exterior cover purchased from the factory then inside we use the custom fit windshield and side windows reflectors from HeatShield.  Then, like many, we hang a blanket across the cab opening to reduce heat/cold.

For camp reservation tags or anything else that needs to be seen from the outside, we use "painter's blue tape" to attach them to the vinyl cover.

Works great for us and allows us to utilize the cab area as additional "living space" as we keep a cooler in there that we go into occasionally.

Bill
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: tedeboy on June 13, 2021, 01:18:09 pm
Steve
We bought that one for our 2021 MB. It is OK has straps that go over the top corner of the door Velcro around the mirrors and magnets on the lower door corner. The insulation appears to have some value and I suspect we will appreciate even more in hot weather. So far our only use is storage at home and a month working our way up the Oregon coast. Todd tried to talk me into one of their covers which I gather attach with screws. I did not want to worry about potential corrosion around the snaps and declined. After putting this on and off a number of times I can understand why they use snaps. Our last RV was a Winnebago Aspect which had a small overhang and putting on the cover was a piece of cake. On the LD with its large cab over and tight clearance not so easy. I now leave one of the cab windows down to make it easier to work the strap over the corner. I think that anyone the vinyl covers will have the same problem.  Good luck.

Ken

On my 1995TK I had a cover that used magnets.
Keep an eye out for potential paint scratches where the magnet makes contact over time.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: pdl2win on June 13, 2021, 01:24:21 pm
On my 1995TK I had a cover that used magnets.
Keep an eye out for potential paint scratches where the magnet makes contact over time.

No magnets on ours.....I'd be concerned for that exact reason especially in some of the winds we've experienced!
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: tedeboy on June 13, 2021, 02:07:30 pm
No magnets on ours.....I'd be concerned for that exact reason especially in some of the winds we've experienced!

Yes. Especially a wind storm with sand involved.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: 73gitane on June 13, 2021, 05:38:21 pm
Ordered the Bouge cover yesterday and it arrived today (that was quick!). Fits nice and loose compared to the factory vinyl. This winter I’ll sandwich the vinyl one between the Bouge and windshield for extra insulation. I like the idea of putting exposure wear on the cheaper Bougman.

It hooks over the upper corners of the doors and uses magnets on the bottom corners. I’ll keep an eye on wear to avoid scratches.

Interior shields have their advantages but won’t have the highest insulation factor.
Title: Re: Recommendations - Windshield Cover
Post by: Larry W on June 13, 2021, 06:52:36 pm
When installing windshield covers with magnetic corners, cut pieces of clear, surface protection tape, applying the tape where the magnets will sit, it will keep them from scratching the paint.
The tape is a 3M product made for exterior usage on vehcles..
Amazon.com: 3M Clear Paint Protection Bulk Film Roll 6-by-25-inches: Automotive (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Paint-Protection-Bulk-25-inches/dp/B00B3IXSMA/ref=sr_1_12?dchild=1&keywords=3M-Clear-Paint-Protection-&qid=1623624592&sr=8-12)
Amazon.com: VViViD 3M Clear Paint Protection Vinyl Film 6 Inch Wide Choose... (https://www.amazon.com/VViViD-Clear-Protection-Choose-Including/dp/B01LXOPYQ4/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=clear+hood+protector&qid=1623625830&sr=8-3)

Larry