Newspaper racks
look much better without cracked or obscured plexiglass windows.
Newspaper racks are often located close to sidewalk curbs and on street corners where they are subjected to a great deal of traffic. It's not uncommon to see a newspaper machine's plexiglass kicked in, smeared with permanent marker writing and drawing, or obscured by bumper stickers that aren't aligned with the paper's advertising interests. It's best to keep fresh pieces of pre-cut plexiglass on hand for each machine you maintain and replace them when it's clear they've taken too much abuse.
Instructions
1. Remove the existing plexiglass sheet. Loosen any screws, nuts, and bolts you find securing the existing sheet in place. Use a hammer to loosen stubborn pieces of the old sheet if it's broken. Wear gloves to avoid injury from sharp edges. Take note of how the sheet is mounted. Consider machine elements before determining the thickness of the new sheet. Machines have different mounting setups, depending on whether they are plastic or metal. Whether it is a free or coin-fed rack, consider security and durability factors.
2. Measure the dimensions of the replacement sheet. Mark the cutting lines on the sheet with the permanent marker. Clamp the sheet down to the saw horses and use the jig saw or circular saw to cut along the lines. Accuracy and exactness may not be important unless the piece is made to slide tightly into a metal rack mechanism on the inside of the machine door.
3. Glue or mount your sheet depending on the rack style. Use bolts to secure the sheet, or slide it into the rack and tighten the screws. If the stand is plastic, apply glue and clamp the sheet to the plastic frame of the door with your carpenter clamps until the adhesive dries.
4. Drill holes in the corner areas of the glass for bolts or screws for a more durable hold. Do not tighten any bolt or screw too much or try to fit one into a tight hole because it may crack the glass. Use a sharp bit and a high speed drill for best results.
