cor66vette

I'm pretty sure this has been done many times. I just started researching what's involved in converting, and from what I've read (older threads and posts) the required parts must be gathered vs. purchased in an all in one kit, but the info is vague and not very explanatory- at least I do not follow it. The word I hear that's used to describe the job is "doable", but what does doable mean? Is it a big deal to do this conversion, and are the parts easy to come by? Thank you

gjohnson

I reto fit one in my 76. Easy to do and all parts are avail.The only thing is the rear window frame is not repoduced I found mine on E bay. Once you pull the interior pieces off you'll see where the latches in the early C-3's mounted cause its still there.

cor66vette

Thanks for that. Can I use my window and add the frame? Also, might you have a list of the parts needed?

gjohnson

The glass will not fit the frame. Usually you can buy them w/the original glass.I send you more info via PM...

cor66vette

Great. I appreciate the help. Thank you

Iceaxe

I have a rear window out of a 1970 I'd sell for $50 plus shipping. The frame is in great shape but the glass is badly scratched. I'm guessing shipping might be a little pricey. The window is located in Salt Lake.

Barrist

It's a fairly easy conversion. Only messy part is the seal.
I have some pictures in my build thread.

You will need window with frame, with the pins on the bottom. Two receivers, that mount in the lower edge of the opening. Two latches that mount in the roof. And a new seal for the opening. And lastly, the "halo" panels, or do as I did, and cut Yours. All the screws and nuts can be found at your local hardware store.

Best upgrade I've made. No more ice-cream hitting me in the back of the head.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-on-storm.html

Have a Great Day,

Bill

gjohnson

You can open the frame and loose the glass.

cor66vette Killer price for frame.. snap it up!!

Alan 71

Hi c66v,
The 68-72 cars with the removable rear window had a 'storage tray' that the window sat in while it was out.
It's hinged and fits up under the rear deck quite closely. It keeps the window out of the way if you have 'things' in the rear compartment… like the roof panels. You might consider looking for a tray if you think you might find it useful.
The removable window is pretty 'cool' in several ways.
Regards,
Alan

cor66vette

Thanks, Alan. I've read about the tray. Seems like something handy. I can add that once I complete the actual conversion. I can see already this project adding up $$$.

Richard Daugird

A '77 or older was a "must" in my search for a 'Vette for this very reason. I got everything(including a sawed-off piece of roof)from a member here for $500 I believe, without the tray. Probably about the going rate. I got a good deal on the tray, but I have seen them fetching up to $500 alone, I guess because they can deteriorate. I don't consider the tray a must; you could fab something up and save some $$$.

Alan 71

Hi Richard and c66,
The tray used from 68 through 70 (and perhaps into early 71) production was made from 'black flocked' fiberboard. They were easily damaged if the rear window leaked and so have become rare ($$).
The trays used for most of 71 and 72 were made from fiberglass and have survived well so are more reasonably priced.
If you decide to install a tray be aware that the hinges each require a re-enforcing plate in the rear bulkhead and the clip or button release requires a nut plate in the fiberglass below the window.
This might deter you from adding the tray… and you can certainly live without it.
Regards,
Alan

A fiberboard tray. Note the clips to hold the window in place.


An example of the material used in the later tray.

gjohnson

IMO no need for the tray.Save $$$ Window stays put just fine due to the wheel wells ,does not move.

gjohnson

Finished look with weatherstripping

cor66vette

So the window guides in at the bottom and latches with two latches on top?

gjohnson

10-4

Richard Daugird

I actually don't foresee mine being in place very often

cor66vette

I agree, and if, and a big if, I want a tray, I will see if I can make something like you suggest.

I like the set up in post #13 - just set it behind the wheel well.

Alan 71

Hi,
The 2 'pegs' on the bottom of the window sit in a mount consisting of an aluminum plate and a nylon guide bushing.
Regards,
Alan

The nylon helps the window from squealing when you go over railroad tracks for instance.