WHAT'S A SAIL PANEL?

The term "sail panel" refers to the triangular piece of Plexiglas behind each door on the "notchback" style Fiero. It is also called the "quarter window" or "applique". Since the panel is in the shape of a triangular sail on a boat, we like the term "sail panel" as it is more descriptive. We use the term "sail panel" to mean the piece of Plexiglas only, not including the black triangular mounting frame that attaches to the car.

Replacement sail panels are available in plain black (as several models of the Fiero were originally), with "SE" or "GT" lettering, with artwork of just about any type, or left clear. If left clear it is assumed you will take care of your own painting and artwork.

The lettering for the "SE" or "GT" is a near-duplicate of the original factory letters. Each "word" is computer cut and the results look very good. The standard color lettering is silver for SE models, and red and silver for the '85 GT. For a "to be determined" cost you can have any artwork you want in place of the standard letters, providing it will fit on the sail panel. See the Custom Graphics section for details.

Based on micrometer measurements, replacement sail panels are 0.060" thick which is about 10 thousandths of an inch thinner than the originals on our 1988 Formula. This provides good flexibility so that fitting to the sail panel frame is easy. The thinner material we now use provides equal or better performance to the thicker material we used in the past (until December 1998), and it looks better.

Due to temperature changes, shipping stresses, or storage conditions the sail panel may not conform perfectly to the sail panel frame without slight pressure. This slight adjustment takes care of itself as you press the sail panel into the frame. The double-sided tape easily holds the sail panel in place as it is pressed into position. See the HOW TO REMOVE & REPLACE procedure for details.

If you have concerns about the sail panels, we will be happy to answer any questions. Alternatively, you can contact some of the people under "REFERENCES" for their opinion.