Why Is Replacement Door Glass So Expensive for Gehl CTL80 and Mustang MTL25

[MikePhua]

The Machines Behind the Glass
The Gehl CTL80 and Mustang MTL25 are compact track loaders built on the same platform as the Takeuchi TL150, a model renowned for its durability and hydraulic power. Manufactured under license by Manitou Group, both Gehl and Mustang rebranded the TL150 chassis with minor cosmetic and cab differences. These machines feature vertical lift paths, high-flow hydraulics, and robust undercarriages, making them popular in demolition, land clearing, and grading. Thousands of units have been sold across North America since the mid-2000s, and their longevity means replacement parts—especially cab components—remain in high demand.
Terminology Clarification

• Tempered Glass: Heat-treated safety glass that shatters into small, blunt pieces when broken.
  
• Laminated Glass: Two layers of glass bonded with a plastic interlayer, which holds the glass together upon impact.
  
• Lexan: A brand of polycarbonate plastic often used as a shatter-resistant alternative to glass.
  
• Sticker Shock: A term used to describe unexpected or excessive pricing, especially for replacement parts.
  
• Wiper Motor Cutout: A hole or mounting point in the glass to accommodate the windshield wiper assembly.
  

Why the Price Jump Happens
Operators often experience sticker shock when replacing door glass. A pane that once cost $200 may now be quoted at $550 or more. This price inflation can be attributed to several factors:

• OEM glass often includes pre-drilled holes for wiper motors and mounting hardware.
  
• Tempered glass requires specialized fabrication and cannot be cut or drilled after treatment.
  
• Supply chain disruptions and low-volume production increase unit costs.
  
• Dealers may quote Lexan or polycarbonate panels, which are more expensive but offer higher impact resistance.
  

In one case, a Missouri operator broke his door glass twice—once from a tree limb and once from a chunk of gumbo clay. The second replacement quote was nearly triple the first, prompting him to explore local alternatives.
Local Glass Shops as a Viable Option
Many operators turn to local glass shops for custom-cut replacements. These shops often offer laminated glass, which can be cut to size and drilled before installation. While laminated glass is not as impact-resistant as tempered or Lexan, it provides adequate protection for general use and costs significantly less.
Typical pricing from local shops:

• Laminated glass: $120–$150 installed
  
• Tempered glass: $200–$300, with longer lead times
  
• Lexan/polycarbonate: $300–$600 depending on thickness and UV coating
  

One technician in Illinois opted for laminated glass and skipped the wiper motor cutout. He applied Rain-X to the surface, which helped shed water and ice during winter operations. The solution was simple, effective, and cost-efficient.
Drilling and Mounting Considerations
Drilling holes in laminated glass is possible but must be done before installation. Most local shops can accommodate custom cutouts if provided with accurate templates. For tempered glass, holes must be specified before the glass is heat-treated. Lexan panels can be drilled post-installation but require care to avoid cracking.
Operators should consider:

• Providing a cardboard or plywood template with hole locations
  
• Verifying thickness and edge finish to match OEM specs
  
• Using rubber grommets or bushings to prevent stress fractures around mounting points
  

Preventive Measures and Spare Strategy
To avoid downtime and repeated costs:

• Keep spare glass panels in the shop, especially if operating in wooded or rocky terrain
  
• Consider switching to Lexan if frequent breakage occurs
  
• Train operators to avoid overloading buckets or working under unstable debris
  
• Use protective films or guards on high-risk areas of the cab
  

One contractor in Oklahoma bought three laminated panels at once, reducing the per-unit cost and ensuring quick replacement. Ironically, he never broke another pane after stocking spares—a classic case of Murphy’s Law in reverse.
Conclusion
The high cost of replacement door glass for Gehl CTL80 and Mustang MTL25 machines stems from specialized fabrication, low production volume, and dealer markups. However, operators have viable alternatives through local glass shops, especially when opting for laminated panels without complex cutouts. By understanding the material options and planning ahead, owners can reduce costs, minimize downtime, and keep their machines running safely and efficiently.