windshield pillar mess
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 171
Likes: 0
From: Boston ma
windshield pillar mess
Help...I'm looking at a 72 coupe that I would love to buy but both windshield pillars have rot about 3-4 inches up from the dash pad and about 1 inch round in size on both sides ( not just rot.. holes ! )
what is the correct fix cost ??? and is there a "safe" patch..fiberglass matt, tiger hair ???
Thanks and please respond I'm trying to make a decision soon.
what is the correct fix cost ??? and is there a "safe" patch..fiberglass matt, tiger hair ???
Thanks and please respond I'm trying to make a decision soon.
Advanced
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
Notorious leakers, it will most likely need to have the windshield removed and a new frame welded in because you will probably see rust under the top of the windshield trim as well. Also, make sure to look down! (you have to remove the kick panels to see ) The windshield post goes to the chassis and if the rust is there too it is a major project. 
They make the parts for the replacement and if it is only the upper section and you like the car and it is priced right, get some local pricing.
Think $1,500 to $2,000 plus a new windshield if they break the old one removing it. Prices vary by the area you live, so find a good Vette guy.
Ken
They make the parts for the replacement and if it is only the upper section and you like the car and it is priced right, get some local pricing.
Think $1,500 to $2,000 plus a new windshield if they break the old one removing it. Prices vary by the area you live, so find a good Vette guy.
Ken
Advanced
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
Don't get caught up buying the parts unless you are going to do the work yourself. If they do not fit it will be your fault. Let the guy who is going to do it get the parts. It is not that difficult for someone who has done it before, but they have to be measured accurately or the T-Tops will be a pain in the #%@& to get on and off later and the window adjustments hell as well. Good Luck.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 758
Likes: 14
From: Ville de la Baie Quebec. A winner is just a loser who tried again.
Be wise my friend, do not let emotion convince you that its not that bad, I can speek with experience, it is very unlikely that the rust is just what you see. Yes windshield frames are available, but are you sure it stops there ????. check the bottom pillars, body mounts, and under the rockers. Good luck
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Advanced
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
Hey, here is an OEM? windshield frame. Might be worth looking at.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...m=370063258567
$150 bucks for the dash to the top. If the lower is good, this could get you there?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...m=370063258567
$150 bucks for the dash to the top. If the lower is good, this could get you there?
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 4,883
Likes: 11
From: North Easton Mass
I see that you are in the area. If the car has spent its life in New England there may be rust problems in the frame as well as the birdcage. If the car is south of Boston or if you could take it for a spin I would be happy to give the frame a look. I am very familiar with rust problem areas on 72 frames.
Rick B.
Rick B.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 9,192
Likes: 27
From: Boca Raton Florida
There is NO good news in this thing for you, get ready for life to suck. That deal on the frame on Ebay is pretty good if you can get it for that price. The repair will require removing the front clip, dash, doors etc and cutting out the bad parts. In addition to what you have already seen the No 2 body mounts are probably toast since thats where the water goes once its past the lower WS frame corners, take a look there.
This repair is a BITCH but it can be done. If you choose to do it yourself you will learn a lot , be prepared to spend twice whatever you think its gonna cost.
This repair is a BITCH but it can be done. If you choose to do it yourself you will learn a lot , be prepared to spend twice whatever you think its gonna cost.
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,289
Likes: 3
From: East Waterboro Maine
I feel your pain, I've just spent the better part of three months repairing my windshield frame because it was all rotted out. The scope of the repair work depends largely on the extent of the rot, but a proper repair will likely require the removal of the front clip and fire wall.
To get an idea of what you may be getting into you can take a look at my website - I've got about 5 updates describing the repair work I've done so far: http://www.corvette-restoration.com/body_work.htm
Keep in mind that the trim and body are probably hiding most of the deterioration.
Good luck,
Tim
To get an idea of what you may be getting into you can take a look at my website - I've got about 5 updates describing the repair work I've done so far: http://www.corvette-restoration.com/body_work.htm
Keep in mind that the trim and body are probably hiding most of the deterioration.
Good luck,
Tim
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 171
Likes: 0
From: Boston ma
Thanks everyone.....tally seems to have more run aways than try to attempt to save the old girl !!! I have done two frame offs on mid years and don't have the energy or time to do another... this is just a local no options ( other than tilt ) 4 speed car. The price may be right enough to run for awhile as a real driver but I wouldn't want to sell it to anyone down the road so I guess I'll pass. sounds like more headache than fun
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 807
Likes: 0
From: VA
You wanna see a mess....check out this crazy Brits vette!!! What a rotted birdcage!!!! 
http://www.corvetteclub.org.uk/viewt...asc&&start=210
But the man can sure weld!!!
http://www.corvetteclub.org.uk/viewt...asc&&start=210
But the man can sure weld!!!
Last edited by al329; Jun 24, 2008 at 11:24 PM.