G l a s s
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 8,807
Likes: 1,947
From: LONG ISLAND
2025 C3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
G l a s s
Where to buy a front windshield, & whats it like to install ?
Eerything else on this car is a PITA so i'm expecting the same with this. Also painting the entire nose from the doors forward, do the windshield replacement before or after ?
Eerything else on this car is a PITA so i'm expecting the same with this. Also painting the entire nose from the doors forward, do the windshield replacement before or after ?
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,560
Likes: 4
From: Arlington texas
have you tried calling one of the windshield replacement companies that come to your house to do it? I'm sure they can get the glass still. That is what I plan on doing once I get mine painted.
I'm doing mine after mainly because I am replacing the dash and figured that it would be easier with it gone. I'd recommend before (I AM NOT A PAINTER OR BODY GUY) just because when I removed mine I found a lot of surface rust had formed under it that was hidden from view with it in place. You probably will have issues to take care of and then you can get it sealed and painted along with the rest of the car.
There have been a couple of threads lately about replacing one and I believe one or two have cracked their new ones. I'll leave it to a professional on mine.
I'm doing mine after mainly because I am replacing the dash and figured that it would be easier with it gone. I'd recommend before (I AM NOT A PAINTER OR BODY GUY) just because when I removed mine I found a lot of surface rust had formed under it that was hidden from view with it in place. You probably will have issues to take care of and then you can get it sealed and painted along with the rest of the car.
There have been a couple of threads lately about replacing one and I believe one or two have cracked their new ones. I'll leave it to a professional on mine.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,889
Likes: 23
From: Kansas
Yes Sir; I'm sure someone smarter than I, in glass, will come to your Rescue. I followed the last glass replacement thread, & I believe most found that the only glass to use was the LOF brand. Also they found that some were installed to low on the opening, because of lack of knowledge in setting them properly. I hope someone can lead you to the thread. Lots of very upset people on glass installation, corners not fitting, lots of filling with silicone, which in my opinion is a lot of crap, stainless not fitting back properly, broken stainless plastic trim holders, I wish you the best of luck, but I would get a lot of input, before changing. Have a great day. Gene
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,189
Likes: 111
From: Tolland CT
I just had my windshield replaced on my 70, bought the replacement from OEM glass. They offer windshields with the correct markings, date code, etc for another $40. Takes a few weeks longer to get.
The windshield I believe was made by Pilkington Glass. From what I understand Pilkington bought LOF glass in the 80's. They say they have the original patterns.
I have heard of some replacement windshields not fitting well, too thin, contour off or being off in the side to side dimension. OEM glass was recommended to me by a local Corvette shop. All appears to fit well.
I had the Corvette shop install the new windshield, they know how to set it so there are no gaps between the glass and trim.
The windshield I believe was made by Pilkington Glass. From what I understand Pilkington bought LOF glass in the 80's. They say they have the original patterns.
I have heard of some replacement windshields not fitting well, too thin, contour off or being off in the side to side dimension. OEM glass was recommended to me by a local Corvette shop. All appears to fit well.
I had the Corvette shop install the new windshield, they know how to set it so there are no gaps between the glass and trim.
Terrorizing Orange Cones
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,572
Likes: 17
From: Northern CO
Ditto that, Gene. Good luck to 427 S P finding a solution that works for you.
Whoever set mine, before I bought it, cracked it halfway on the drivers side and fortunately, the line grew upwards. It's not in my line of vision but is terribly unsightly when showing the car. It was cracked near a trim (reveal?) clip when the installer pressed too hard, is what looked like happened.
After reading in CF what the preferred procedure is to install correctly, I've hesitated calling just anyone to replace and would rather pay a pro to install a fresh one.
My dilemma has been whom, as the current crop of glass houses in my area do not employ anyone familiar with this old school technology. I don't need 2 cracked windshields.
I'm even considering trailering the car regionally if I have to, in order to get the job done correctly.
Another question: I have full glass coverage from my insurance company and curious if they will subsidize partial or all of the cost, if taken to a classic specialty shop? Guess I should ask them.
Again, Good Luck to 427 S P getting yours squared away.
Whoever set mine, before I bought it, cracked it halfway on the drivers side and fortunately, the line grew upwards. It's not in my line of vision but is terribly unsightly when showing the car. It was cracked near a trim (reveal?) clip when the installer pressed too hard, is what looked like happened.
After reading in CF what the preferred procedure is to install correctly, I've hesitated calling just anyone to replace and would rather pay a pro to install a fresh one.
My dilemma has been whom, as the current crop of glass houses in my area do not employ anyone familiar with this old school technology. I don't need 2 cracked windshields.
I'm even considering trailering the car regionally if I have to, in order to get the job done correctly.
Another question: I have full glass coverage from my insurance company and curious if they will subsidize partial or all of the cost, if taken to a classic specialty shop? Guess I should ask them.
Again, Good Luck to 427 S P getting yours squared away.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 8,807
Likes: 1,947
From: LONG ISLAND
2025 C3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
UPDATE:
Called O.E.M glass, ( ILLINOIS ) the company that owns all the patterns from Libby Owens Ford ...........( LOF ) & GM..........
THEY ARE OUT OF BUSINESS !!! they refered me to
Plinkington glass.........with no additional info.
Spoke the them..........they manufacture the glass right there & it's not too shabby.
Was quoted:
$255 for the windshield
$50 Date coding
$125 Shipping to a business address ( CRATED )
2-3 week turn around !!
Now to find the "RIGHT" guy to do it..........
Called O.E.M glass, ( ILLINOIS ) the company that owns all the patterns from Libby Owens Ford ...........( LOF ) & GM..........
THEY ARE OUT OF BUSINESS !!! they refered me to
Plinkington glass.........with no additional info.
Spoke the them..........they manufacture the glass right there & it's not too shabby.
Was quoted:
$255 for the windshield
$50 Date coding
$125 Shipping to a business address ( CRATED )
2-3 week turn around !!
Now to find the "RIGHT" guy to do it..........
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,189
Likes: 111
From: Tolland CT
I believe the source was Pilkington glass so you'd be getting the same glass. OEM glass was just the middleman? I'm happy with mine, hope it works out for you as well.
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Drifting
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,889
Likes: 23
From: Kansas
Yes Sir; I spec. the brand of glass I wanted to use, & had the glass Co. furnish it. Yes they marked it up 14 % but they took all the liability of the shipping & installing. They charged 95.00 labor. Even if they had broke it, it was their worry, not mine. Have a great day. Gene
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,729
Likes: 267
From: Austin Texas
Corvette of the Year Winner 2017
2016 C3 of Year Finalist
I would suggest you remove the old windsheild, inspect the frame and make repairs.
then let work with the pro to install the windsheild.
make sure you, and he know how to correctly set the corvette postion,
so your trim will match up properly.
then let work with the pro to install the windsheild.
make sure you, and he know how to correctly set the corvette postion,
so your trim will match up properly.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 954
Likes: 2
From: San Jose CA
That sounds like a lot of $$$.
I bought a Plinkinton windshield for $85 from a local glass company. Not date coded. Any glass shop can get one for about that price. No need to ship. Just curious, why would you want a Plinkinton windshield with a fake date code?
I removed the stainless trim and windshield myself. Then cleaned out years of different types of sealants, took care of minor surface rust, then painted everything matte black.
Then returned to the glass guy who dropped it in for $80 more. I went to a glass shop familiar with old school cars. Make sure they use butyl bead like in the link and not glue it in using urethane (modern method).
http://www.ecklers.com/corvette-wind...1964-1982.html
The butyl raises the windshield off the frame a little bit and ensures that the trim fits properly. Then I reinstalled all the stainless trim. Looks good.
I bought a Plinkinton windshield for $85 from a local glass company. Not date coded. Any glass shop can get one for about that price. No need to ship. Just curious, why would you want a Plinkinton windshield with a fake date code?
I removed the stainless trim and windshield myself. Then cleaned out years of different types of sealants, took care of minor surface rust, then painted everything matte black.
Then returned to the glass guy who dropped it in for $80 more. I went to a glass shop familiar with old school cars. Make sure they use butyl bead like in the link and not glue it in using urethane (modern method).
http://www.ecklers.com/corvette-wind...1964-1982.html
The butyl raises the windshield off the frame a little bit and ensures that the trim fits properly. Then I reinstalled all the stainless trim. Looks good.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 8,807
Likes: 1,947
From: LONG ISLAND
2025 C3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
That sounds like a lot of $$$.
I bought a Plinkinton windshield for $85 from a local glass company. Not date coded. Any glass shop can get one for about that price. No need to ship. Just curious, why would you want a Plinkinton windshield with a fake date code? SO IT MATCHES AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO WHAT IT'S REPLACING I removed the stainless trim and windshield myself. Then cleaned out years of different types of sealants, took care of minor surface rust, then painted everything matte black.
Then returned to the glass guy who dropped it in for $80 more. I went to a glass shop familiar with old school cars. Make sure they use butyl bead like in the link and not glue it in using urethane (modern method).
http://www.ecklers.com/corvette-wind...1964-1982.html
The butyl raises the windshield off the frame a little bit and ensures that the trim fits properly. Then I reinstalled all the stainless trim. Looks good.
I bought a Plinkinton windshield for $85 from a local glass company. Not date coded. Any glass shop can get one for about that price. No need to ship. Just curious, why would you want a Plinkinton windshield with a fake date code? SO IT MATCHES AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO WHAT IT'S REPLACING I removed the stainless trim and windshield myself. Then cleaned out years of different types of sealants, took care of minor surface rust, then painted everything matte black.
Then returned to the glass guy who dropped it in for $80 more. I went to a glass shop familiar with old school cars. Make sure they use butyl bead like in the link and not glue it in using urethane (modern method).
http://www.ecklers.com/corvette-wind...1964-1982.html
The butyl raises the windshield off the frame a little bit and ensures that the trim fits properly. Then I reinstalled all the stainless trim. Looks good.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 954
Likes: 2
From: San Jose CA
Go to almost any windshield replacement company. Have you? A C3 corvette windshield is nothing special and readily available. I just wanted to make sure there was no rust. Plus I trust glass guys for installing windshields (they do it all day) but not to take the time required to properly R & R the stainless moldings.
Most places won't sell the windshield separately. They package the price with the installation. All my quotes (installed) were from $145 to $229. This is in high cost San Jose, CA
Most places won't sell the windshield separately. They package the price with the installation. All my quotes (installed) were from $145 to $229. This is in high cost San Jose, CA
Last edited by Clubby99; Jun 14, 2011 at 06:30 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 954
Likes: 2
From: San Jose CA
I went back and checked my receipt. The glass cost $85.13. They separate the price because you have to pay sales tax on the windshield but not the labor.
The glass model was "DW 0714 PLK GBN"
The glass model was "DW 0714 PLK GBN"
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 8,807
Likes: 1,947
From: LONG ISLAND
2025 C3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Called all over, that was the BEST price. ZIP / MID AMERICA ETC were all $400 + for correct date coded glass
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 954
Likes: 2
From: San Jose CA
I used this local company:
http://autoglassmastersandtinting.com/
The owner has a 72 Firebird. Plus he was working on a 68 Camaro before my car. I just don't understand this date coded thing. It is a $85 windshield with a $350 stencil job. Same windshield. To me windshields are like tires and oil filters. They wear out. My 72 is as original as possible (engine, rally wheels, interior, etc.) but saw no need for a fake stencil on my windshield.
http://autoglassmastersandtinting.com/
The owner has a 72 Firebird. Plus he was working on a 68 Camaro before my car. I just don't understand this date coded thing. It is a $85 windshield with a $350 stencil job. Same windshield. To me windshields are like tires and oil filters. They wear out. My 72 is as original as possible (engine, rally wheels, interior, etc.) but saw no need for a fake stencil on my windshield.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 8,807
Likes: 1,947
From: LONG ISLAND
2025 C3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
I used this local company:
http://autoglassmastersandtinting.com/
The owner has a 72 Firebird. Plus he was working on a 68 Camaro before my car. I just don't understand this date coded thing. It is a $85 windshield with a $350 stencil job. Same windshield. To me windshields are like tires and oil filters. They wear out. My 72 is as original as possible (engine, rally wheels, interior, etc.) but saw no need for a fake stencil on my windshield.
http://autoglassmastersandtinting.com/
The owner has a 72 Firebird. Plus he was working on a 68 Camaro before my car. I just don't understand this date coded thing. It is a $85 windshield with a $350 stencil job. Same windshield. To me windshields are like tires and oil filters. They wear out. My 72 is as original as possible (engine, rally wheels, interior, etc.) but saw no need for a fake stencil on my windshield.
NO............it's $255 windshield with a $50 stencil / etch job.
My car is restored to N.C.R.S standards & it matters.
For $50.00 i'm having it done correctly to be as original as it possibly can since the "ORIGINAL" windshield that lasted over 43 years without a crack or stone chip is now headed for the trash, due to some inconcidderate, rug rats .................