'79 Rear Window Removal
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 642
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From: Dallas Texas
'79 Rear Window Removal
Need to replace my rear window trim clips on my '79... and as I understand, the only way to do so is the remove the rear window. Is this actually the case? And if so.... what do I need to do to remove it?
I've called to have it done by a window repair/replacement company.... but it's pretty cost prohibitive and obviously I can't get a guarantee they won't ruin/crack the glass if they remove it. So what tips might you have for taking out the back glass?
Any thoughts/experience is greatly appreciated.
I'm also taking out the windshield in order to clean up the trim and frame, but as the windshield was already in need of replacement... I'm doing that myself and have no concerns about cracking the glass. In fact, have alreay spiderwebbed the glass.
I've called to have it done by a window repair/replacement company.... but it's pretty cost prohibitive and obviously I can't get a guarantee they won't ruin/crack the glass if they remove it. So what tips might you have for taking out the back glass?
Any thoughts/experience is greatly appreciated.
I'm also taking out the windshield in order to clean up the trim and frame, but as the windshield was already in need of replacement... I'm doing that myself and have no concerns about cracking the glass. In fact, have alreay spiderwebbed the glass.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 113
Likes: 0
From: Melville, Long Island NY
Geez I hope removing the rear glass in order to replace trim clips is not the case. I need to change a clips few myself and will not take the glass out.
I'll be interested to see the Forum feedback on this one.
I'll be interested to see the Forum feedback on this one.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,247
Likes: 471
From: Glen Allen, VA
Ok, yall got me worried also. I just took the trim off mine last weekend for paint and most of the clips are broken, (shockingly, LOL). I'll be watching this thread closely also to see what the forum consensus is.
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 204
Likes: 0
From: Bonney Lake WA
I change some of my clips without pulling the window out. They are a pain in the *** though. Basically use a gasket scraper to shear the top of the clip off and push the remainder of the clip stud through the body with a cotter pin extractor . Thats the easy part. The new clip pins are some what plyable, so position the new clip in the hole (it won't be straight on now). Use the gasket scraper and force it in the rest of the way. The pin will still be on the edge of the glass. With the scraper work the pin in as far as possible. It should be tight enough to hold your trim down.
I do think that if I had to change a s#*t load of them I would have the glass guy come out and pull the window. If you had all the clips ready you could do it while he waited.
Scott..
I do think that if I had to change a s#*t load of them I would have the glass guy come out and pull the window. If you had all the clips ready you could do it while he waited.
Scott..
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
I had the same problem with the rear window trim on my '79. I realize this is not a perfect fix but it looks fine. Get some plain clear silicoln or use 3M 5200 marine silicoln sealant( only if you need more adhesion but its a mess) gently pull up the trim and apply plenty. Use something heavy to hold it back down and clean off any excess. Don't touch for 24 hours. Honestly, it doesn't look bad.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 6,362
Likes: 7
From: Brazos TX
Cruise-In IV Veteran
Cruise-In V Veteran
I haven't replaced any trim clips but I have removed the rear window. If you have to remove the glass be very careful and deliberate about cutting completely thru the old rubber sealant. I just used a utility knife and worked my way around the entire frame both from the inside and the outside. Make sure you get the blade in as deep as it will go. Many times I had to make multiple passes, going deeper each time until I got to the full depth. Once that was done I ran piano wire between the glass and the body and carefully circulated the window seal. Don't force the wire. If it hangs up, get out the utility knife. After that it came right out.
