C3 Windshield Replacement
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 146
Likes: 1
From: Roanoke Rapids NC
C3 Windshield Replacement
Hello all,
I have a 1974 convertible that has a very hazy windshield I'd like to replace. What is the best way to do this? I see most parts vendors carry them dated and undated from $300-500 BEFORE shipping. But you still have to take it somewhere to get it installed. I have a friend that works at safelite and he says they can replace it with one that looks totally stock for <$300 installed. I've always believed in "you get what you pay for" so how is safelite able to offer a windshield WITH installation for cheaper than those vendors?
Thanks!
Brad
I have a 1974 convertible that has a very hazy windshield I'd like to replace. What is the best way to do this? I see most parts vendors carry them dated and undated from $300-500 BEFORE shipping. But you still have to take it somewhere to get it installed. I have a friend that works at safelite and he says they can replace it with one that looks totally stock for <$300 installed. I've always believed in "you get what you pay for" so how is safelite able to offer a windshield WITH installation for cheaper than those vendors?
Thanks!
Brad
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 1,327
Likes: 16
From: Fl
I would only put glass made by PPG. The tint and shade look the best as compared to original.
If you are not getting the car judged, then spending the extra $$$ is silly - no benefit at all.
If you buddy can get you PPG glass - then I use him.
I do have to tell ya, installing the front glass is a major PITA.
You have to remove all the L/R "A" pillar reveal molding and WS holder molding, as well as the upper outer molding strip. If you are not VERY carefull you will likely damage the pillar post W/S getting at the screws. If by chance it is very old original stuff, plan on replacing it. There are a couple screws that you CAN NOT get at with the W/S in the way.
Hope this helps some.
Good luck to ya!!!
If you are not getting the car judged, then spending the extra $$$ is silly - no benefit at all.
If you buddy can get you PPG glass - then I use him.
I do have to tell ya, installing the front glass is a major PITA.
You have to remove all the L/R "A" pillar reveal molding and WS holder molding, as well as the upper outer molding strip. If you are not VERY carefull you will likely damage the pillar post W/S getting at the screws. If by chance it is very old original stuff, plan on replacing it. There are a couple screws that you CAN NOT get at with the W/S in the way.
Hope this helps some.
Good luck to ya!!!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 146
Likes: 1
From: Roanoke Rapids NC
awesome, very helpful reply thanks!
Everything windshield wise is original so I will plan on replacing all WS components and even the trim moulding for cosmetics. Are there are any items I need to order and take to Safelite with the car or should they be able to get the new one in with whatever materials they have on hand?
Thanks again,
Brad
Everything windshield wise is original so I will plan on replacing all WS components and even the trim moulding for cosmetics. Are there are any items I need to order and take to Safelite with the car or should they be able to get the new one in with whatever materials they have on hand?
Thanks again,
Brad
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,486
Likes: 71
From: Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Brad,
Some of the newer windshields are thinner than the original and if the replacement you get is thinner you need to get setting blocks that are thicker to make up the difference otherwise the trim will not fit right.
Some of the newer windshields are thinner than the original and if the replacement you get is thinner you need to get setting blocks that are thicker to make up the difference otherwise the trim will not fit right.
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 1,327
Likes: 16
From: Fl
only thing I can add -- be VERY VERY sure the shop has done glass on early C3's before........
If you get someone who is marginably knowledged - they can make it worse than better.
Take pictures of all the stainless molding on the car before removal - then you will have a reference when putting it back together. Pay close attention to how the inner/outer stainless line up and are oriented. Also take a pictures of how deeply the window is set into the frame to be sure the new one looks the same.
Also - only buy CRC (corvette rubber corp) "A" pillar W/S. It will be damn near extact to original stuff in fit and feel. The others (softseal types) are complete crap and will not fit/work at all.
Use 3M black caulk strip to seal the "A" pillar stainless back up to the car also between the W/S retainer and the outer reveal molding.
If you get someone who is marginably knowledged - they can make it worse than better.
Take pictures of all the stainless molding on the car before removal - then you will have a reference when putting it back together. Pay close attention to how the inner/outer stainless line up and are oriented. Also take a pictures of how deeply the window is set into the frame to be sure the new one looks the same.
Also - only buy CRC (corvette rubber corp) "A" pillar W/S. It will be damn near extact to original stuff in fit and feel. The others (softseal types) are complete crap and will not fit/work at all.
Use 3M black caulk strip to seal the "A" pillar stainless back up to the car also between the W/S retainer and the outer reveal molding.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 1,345
Likes: 0
From: Melbourne Australia
I would only put glass made by PPG. The tint and shade look the best as compared to original.
If you are not getting the car judged, then spending the extra $$$ is silly - no benefit at all.
If you buddy can get you PPG glass - then I use him.
I do have to tell ya, installing the front glass is a major PITA.
You have to remove all the L/R "A" pillar reveal molding and WS holder molding, as well as the upper outer molding strip. If you are not VERY carefull you will likely damage the pillar post W/S getting at the screws. If by chance it is very old original stuff, plan on replacing it. There are a couple screws that you CAN NOT get at with the W/S in the way.
Hope this helps some.
Good luck to ya!!!
If you are not getting the car judged, then spending the extra $$$ is silly - no benefit at all.
If you buddy can get you PPG glass - then I use him.
I do have to tell ya, installing the front glass is a major PITA.
You have to remove all the L/R "A" pillar reveal molding and WS holder molding, as well as the upper outer molding strip. If you are not VERY carefull you will likely damage the pillar post W/S getting at the screws. If by chance it is very old original stuff, plan on replacing it. There are a couple screws that you CAN NOT get at with the W/S in the way.
Hope this helps some.
Good luck to ya!!!
just changed the windshield on my 76, big job, and it takes awhile to get it done. I claimed mine through the insurance, otherwise it would have cost over AU$850.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 146
Likes: 1
From: Roanoke Rapids NC
Wow guys, sounds like it really is a tuff job. I would imagine this install is a little more in depth than what they're used to at Safelite. I wonder if it'd be much smarter to take it to an actual corvette shop. Zip Corvette's is only about an hour and a half away, does anyone know if they do windshield installs? I know they sell them and they do other work. I'm sure it'll cost nearly twice and much but I want it done right the first time.
PS my friend at safelite is a manager, super guy but obviously he wouldn't be doing the install. Ive seen some of the characters that work on the floor...
Thanks for the advice!
Brad
PS my friend at safelite is a manager, super guy but obviously he wouldn't be doing the install. Ive seen some of the characters that work on the floor...
Thanks for the advice!
Brad
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Drifting
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 1,327
Likes: 16
From: Fl
Brad,
If you can find a shop up your way that does work on C3's - I would bring it there for sure. It is so worth an extra $$$ to get it done once and correctly.
If this was 1970 something I say take it to a regular shop, these were driver cars back then and worked on regularly in shops.
If you post your city, I will ask the guys on the NCRS discussion board who is close to you. Also - let me know if you are close to Charlotte, Raliegh etc..
If you can find a shop up your way that does work on C3's - I would bring it there for sure. It is so worth an extra $$$ to get it done once and correctly.
If this was 1970 something I say take it to a regular shop, these were driver cars back then and worked on regularly in shops.
If you post your city, I will ask the guys on the NCRS discussion board who is close to you. Also - let me know if you are close to Charlotte, Raliegh etc..
Race Director
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 11,360
Likes: 382
From: Plano TX
To maybe summarize what others above are getting at:
The actual glass replacement is easy, and no different than any other old car that needs a ribbon seal rather than polyurethane. Only tricky part is to set it at the correct height, but as long as they use the spacer blocks supplied with the 3/8" ribbon seal kit and don't squish the glass down too hard that part is fine.
The hard part is the moldings. Both removing without damage and re-install so that it looks right. From personal experience I can tell you that it is very noticeable when done wrong and ruins the looks of an otherwise nice car.
You may consider taking it to a vette shop to remove and install moldings, and have the safelite guys just replace the glass.
The actual glass replacement is easy, and no different than any other old car that needs a ribbon seal rather than polyurethane. Only tricky part is to set it at the correct height, but as long as they use the spacer blocks supplied with the 3/8" ribbon seal kit and don't squish the glass down too hard that part is fine.
The hard part is the moldings. Both removing without damage and re-install so that it looks right. From personal experience I can tell you that it is very noticeable when done wrong and ruins the looks of an otherwise nice car.
You may consider taking it to a vette shop to remove and install moldings, and have the safelite guys just replace the glass.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 146
Likes: 1
From: Roanoke Rapids NC
I am actually a student at NCSU in Raleigh
Charlotte is a little further but I could do it if need be. My hometown (vette location) is Roanoke Rapids, right on I95. Zips, which is in Mechanicsville, VA is about 1.5 hours from RR. I've dealt with them before and am happy with their services. Looks like they'll do just about anything on your vette for the right price
I do know that they have plenty of experience on older vettes though and they have all the correct parts in house.
I will be applying for a Navy college program soon, if I am accepted my monthly stipend will finally let me fix the vette up right
Thanks guys,
Brad
Charlotte is a little further but I could do it if need be. My hometown (vette location) is Roanoke Rapids, right on I95. Zips, which is in Mechanicsville, VA is about 1.5 hours from RR. I've dealt with them before and am happy with their services. Looks like they'll do just about anything on your vette for the right price
I do know that they have plenty of experience on older vettes though and they have all the correct parts in house. I will be applying for a Navy college program soon, if I am accepted my monthly stipend will finally let me fix the vette up right
Thanks guys,
Brad
Platinum Supporting Vendor
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 3,665
Likes: 341
I am actually a student at NCSU in Raleigh
Charlotte is a little further but I could do it if need be. My hometown (vette location) is Roanoke Rapids, right on I95. Zips, which is in Mechanicsville, VA is about 1.5 hours from RR. I've dealt with them before and am happy with their services. Looks like they'll do just about anything on your vette for the right price I do know that they have plenty of experience on older vettes though and they have all the correct parts in house.
I will be applying for a Navy college program soon, if I am accepted my monthly stipend will finally let me fix the vette up right
Thanks guys,
Brad
Charlotte is a little further but I could do it if need be. My hometown (vette location) is Roanoke Rapids, right on I95. Zips, which is in Mechanicsville, VA is about 1.5 hours from RR. I've dealt with them before and am happy with their services. Looks like they'll do just about anything on your vette for the right price
I do know that they have plenty of experience on older vettes though and they have all the correct parts in house. I will be applying for a Navy college program soon, if I am accepted my monthly stipend will finally let me fix the vette up right
Thanks guys,
Brad
Looks like they'll do just about anything on your vette for the right price :
We do get windshields installed, the way it works though is I have a glass guy that actually sets the windshield and we do all the stainless and W/S work. I may also be a good time for you to install new windshield clips. As far as how much it will cost, it should be about 2 hours, but that will also depend on your car and how much corrosion is in the windshield frame. If the screws come out that is great, but if we have to drill all of them out it could easily turn into a 10 hour job.
Thanks
Justin
Heel & Toe
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Ware Shoals South carolina
I had Safelite replace mine on '79 last year. It had a crack running the length of the window from left to right under the hood line. I had no problems with the service tech nor his attitude to the job at hand. He even treated the window frame for potential rust in the future. Of course it was an insurance job.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 146
Likes: 1
From: Roanoke Rapids NC
Justin,
Thanks for your reply, didn't mean to sound like a smart@$$, I was just pointing out the fact that a specialty Corvette shop would probably charge more than a quick in and out shop, which is fine because I don't mind paying more for someone who's passionate about vettes and will do the job right. It is helpful to have the numbers you posted to go by.
I also considered polishing out the haze to get a few more years out of it. The tint at the top has bleached to a golden color but oh well. How would one go about polishing a windshield?
Thanks for your reply, didn't mean to sound like a smart@$$, I was just pointing out the fact that a specialty Corvette shop would probably charge more than a quick in and out shop, which is fine because I don't mind paying more for someone who's passionate about vettes and will do the job right. It is helpful to have the numbers you posted to go by.
I also considered polishing out the haze to get a few more years out of it. The tint at the top has bleached to a golden color but oh well. How would one go about polishing a windshield?
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,239
Likes: 19
From: Chino CA
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,108
Likes: 11
From: No Prov RI
replace the glass .....you'll be glad you did and having it done at Zip sounds like a good idea also. while the glass is out you will be able to tell the condition of the w/s frame and if you need to do any work to repair its structual integrity
Hammadown
and having it done at Zip sounds like a good idea also. while the glass is out you will be able to tell the condition of the w/s frame and if you need to do any work to repair its structual integrity Hammadown
Last edited by hammadown; Jun 17, 2010 at 07:29 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,359
Likes: 15
From: Confusion
One thing to be careful of, the retainers that hold the W/S for the pillar window edge have screws that protrude into the window channel area. The glass must be centered side to side and not get anywhere close to the screw holes, or when you put the retainers back on the screw will hit the glass and crack it (don't even ask how I know that). If I were you, remove all trim at the top and seal it real good for water leakage prevention.
I just had a windshield put in my Chevelle and broke it 24 hrs later trying to remove the trim after denting it putting it on, glass is not my friend!!!!!! I had the proper tool to do it, but later found out the prongs were slightly bent towards the glass and it slipped on one clip and caught the lip of the glass, resulting in a 2 inch crack...................Just some warnings..................
I just had a windshield put in my Chevelle and broke it 24 hrs later trying to remove the trim after denting it putting it on, glass is not my friend!!!!!! I had the proper tool to do it, but later found out the prongs were slightly bent towards the glass and it slipped on one clip and caught the lip of the glass, resulting in a 2 inch crack...................Just some warnings..................
