Windshield Install Procedure???

[wizard124]

I soaked and scrubbed the original windshield gasket. It is in good shape with good flexibility. I started a practice run at installing the new windshield. I have the gasket seated over the "V" groove bottom support (this took a bit of manipulation; I don't think I could seat it properly with the windshield in the gasket). It appears that with 2 of us working, we can next fully install the windshield in the gasket. Then, slip the frame onto the gasket and tighten the 4 bolts to the frame.

Am I going at this in the proper order?

The body shop also gave me some putty (I think he called it "Dum Dum" ) to lay in this "V" channel. I think its purpose is to put pressure on the gasket to press against the windshield's bottom edge. Has anyone else used this stuff? Is it a good idea?

Thanks,
Warren

[wizard124]

Well, I couldnt get it installed the way I was going.
There isn't enough clearance in the door jamb to get the windshield frame in. Another start over. These are the steps I took to get it installed. Definately a 2 person job

Drop the steering wheel.The gage cluster needs to be removed. Then take the dash board out. The dash is held by 4 fasteners. One nut is accessed once the gage cluster is removed and the other through the hole in the top of the glove box. 2 small bolts are at the lower outer corners of the dash. This gives you access to the rear edge of the "V" channel which supports the windshield. Then:
A) Fit the gasket to the windshield;
B) Fit the windshield frame to the gasket/windshield;
C) Mount the frame loosely with the 4 bolts;
D) Have your helper push forward on the top of the frame. From inside the car, work the base of the gasket over the rear edge of the "V" channel. I used a long small slotted screwdriver that I put a slight bend in the end. With the gasket seated, tighten the frame bolts to hold in place;
E) Install the 2 chrome trim pieces in their slot in the front, bottom face of the gasket;
F) Final position the frame and torque the bolts.

When installing the dash, you will need to work the gasket flange back over the edge of the dash.

I did lay in a length of that caulking in the "V" channel. One more thing I am going to do is buy some black silicone and apply it between the rubber gasket and windshield to ensure a leak proof installation.

This job is kind of a PITA Pulling the dash, fussing the gasket to seat, and the need for a helper make it so.

[bradartigue]

I usually get drunk before working on windshields or starters. It helps.

[76was124]

I must have been lucky, as two of us installed the assembled windshield and frame as one piece, without removing the dash on my 81....or maybe it was because the martini I had first? Brad you could be right!

[brackie1]

I have found that it always helps to be fortified when attempting projects like that. Just kind of takes the edge off.

Gene
North Carolina

[SoFlaFiat]

Chianti!!!