The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop Windshield tips

Hello, I am just about ready to install my windshield after I have painted on my 1960 C-60. Are there any tips anyone could give me before I start this? I'm just a little nervous about breaking my glass. I put the rear window in last night. No problem, work, but no problem. I have a good quality gasket.I have also been using detergent as lube but on the front seal there is no locking strip, just a seal. Thanks, and all replies are appriciated.

I was always told to make sure the windsheild lip has no burrs that could press aginst the glass and make sure the lip is clean of all previous glue and dirt.It might be good to have a helper because of the size.

If you are in a warm climate, do it in the sun on a warm day. It makes the rubber more pliable. Definitely get help and don't let them get ahead of you if they are a novice too. I put the rubber on the windshiled and place a nylon string in the outside groove of the rubber. The string ends should meet in the middle of the top, and then leave the ends hang out on the inside if the wind shield. I use some masking tape to hold the rubber in place on the windshield.
On the '60 you have the cab overhang at the top of the windshield. The top of the windshield has to be put in place first. That is not as easy as the bottom first. You won't be able to tip it into place if you start at the bottom. Make sure it is centered or you may have to take it out after you get going and start over.
Use a windshield tool to get the rubber in place around the cab opening. Don't use screw drivers. That rear window is a piece of cake compared to that windshield. That windshield is "expensive" to replace as I am sure you are aware of.
If you ar trying to bang on the glass with your hand, use the whole hand like you are spanking. Don't bang on it with your fist.
Make sure you have enough time to start and finish without interuptions. Take your time. Don't rush it. If you start to get frustrated, stop and go take a break. This is no time to loose patience.
There are a ton more tips that I'm sure will get chimed in on this post.

Good luck.
P.S. You could always bring it to a glass shop and let the guys who do it every day get it in for you. It might be a good idea, on that windshield, if you have never done it before.

There are certain chores I know better than to tackle. One is detailed woodwork, one is masonry, one is metal shaping, one is dancing with a monkey, and one is installing auto glass. I'll leave the glass work to the pros. I get enough pride in accomplishments with the 1000 other details I have to do in this project. I just don't have the patience for it.

Just a word of caution....when you call one of the big auto glass companies and get a price (reasonable) on a windshield, be sure to query the source as to whether their installer has ever put a windshield into a 19XX vintage vehicle.

My installer showed up with the glass (quality) used my new gasket for the installation and in a matter of 15 minutes was gone like the wind. Wow...I was impressed. Unbeknownst to me, he had misaligned the gasket, used no sealer and was long gone when I discovered it leaked like a seive. I made the assumtion that a big name glass company who did mega-insurance work would leave me in a mess. They agreed to give it "another shot"....with me providing another gasket......decided to do a little more research and found another company who knew the pitfalls. Didn't get any satisfaction from the original labor charge and threw in another substancial amount for the old time pros. BTW...they did a good job....sealed inside and out, no leaks. One more instance when I failed to remember that "assumption is the Mother of Error."

My point....even if you use the pros, don't assume that the guy who is doing the work even has a clue. Don't be afraid to ask about any pitfalls and for the sake of your project, seek out a company that can get the job done correctly.

Dave

Well said!

Well, Thanks for everyones reply. But considering I have a terminal case of DIY. I plan on installing this weekend. Thank goodness my hair is high and tight otherwise I have feeling I might pull it all out! Thanks again to all!

Beewrangler,

Here is a site that give a pretty good idea on the installation. It is on a 67 Mustang, but applies pretty well. Good luck!

http://www.route66restorations.com/1.html

Just my 02 worth,
Don/t use detergent as a lube. I did just once and now I have rust under the seal. The detergent acts as an acid and removed the paint to metal. every time it gets wet more rust starts.
Just me tho.
dg

KY works well

Put it on dry. Remember... it will slip "out" of the groove just as easy as it slips "on". To me using a lube on a windshield seal that is going to keep moisture out, will also work well to keep the moisture "trapped" in.

Window cleaner or water with a little liquid soap in it, in a spray bottle works the best.
These are the 2 I use all the time.
If the gasket drys, spray more on. You can not use to much.