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Removed the rear window...

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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 11:03 AM
  #1  
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Default Removed the rear window...

I removed the rear window in my 1977 Vette for better flow through. I get almost no turbulence in the cabin anymore, and I love the way it pulls footwell heat out. I usually just garage it or cover it to avoid weather issues related to not having a back window.

Problem is safety. I have a very nice, very custom stereo installed in this car and without a rear window, taking it out and parking in public is a concearn.

I know some years of Corvette had removable rear windows, and I want to install one of those in my 1977. I would assume the body panels around the rear glass are the same from say '71 to '77, but I don't know for sure.

Can someone help with soem brain storming or personal experience? Thanks.

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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 12:21 PM
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did this on my 76
1) found a window with the frame from a 72 on ebay
2) bought the latches(2), nylon bushings for the frame pins (2) and the weatherstrip from DR. Rebuild.
3) clean the old window glue from the body.
4) glue in the weatherstrip using 3m adhesive
5) install the latches. You must buy 2 new upper trim panels with the cut outs for the latches.

The hardest part is cleaing the old goop out. You have to drill holes for the latches.

good luck!
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 12:24 PM
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Originally Posted by ajstr1265
did this on my 76
1) found a window with the frame from a 72 on ebay
2) bought the latches(2), nylon bushings for the frame pins (2) and the weatherstrip from DR. Rebuild.
3) clean the old window glue from the body.
4) glue in the weatherstrip using 3m adhesive
5) install the latches. You must buy 2 new upper trim panels with the cut outs for the latches.

The hardest part is cleaing the old goop out. You have to drill holes for the latches.

good luck!
That's awsome man. I'm glad it's something I can get done with no major trouble. You have any problems with leaking or wind noise? Also, I'd love some pics if you can get some. Thanks.
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 12:38 PM
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Default

I don't have any pictures at this time. There is no wind noise when it is in (but that is rare) I do get some leakage when I wash it but looking at the design of the whole thing I can't imagine that they all didn't leak.I am just careful when I wash it. I never had it in the rain.
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 12:47 PM
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Originally Posted by ajstr1265
I don't have any pictures at this time. There is no wind noise when it is in (but that is rare) I do get some leakage when I wash it but looking at the design of the whole thing I can't imagine that they all didn't leak.I am just careful when I wash it. I never had it in the rain.

Where did you buy the latches, bushings, and weather stripping?

Can I mod my upper panels myself or do I have to have new ones?
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 01:49 PM
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I bought mine from Dr. Rebuild

You can probably cut the notches in the panel. I did not try that on mine
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 01:54 PM
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Originally Posted by ajstr1265
I bought mine from Dr. Rebuild

You can probably cut the notches in the panel. I did not try that on mine
Thanks. I will probably cut mine since I have spare panels, and I don't mind the extra custom work.
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 03:04 PM
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Default Rear Window Conversion

Hi! I also did the same rear window conversion on my 75. There have been numerous articles on the forum regarding this. You can search the archives, but this is one http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...t+Modification

Bruce
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 03:13 PM
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Default

Originally Posted by steelblu75
Hi! I also did the same rear window conversion on my 75. There have been numerous articles on the forum regarding this. You can search the archives, but this is one http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...t+Modification

Bruce

Did the article ever get written up? I'd love to read over it. I would like detailed descriptions of where to buy the parts, if a new window pane is needed or if my '77 glass will work. Stuff like that that I am having trouble finding in the search.
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 03:43 PM
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Default

Search the archives for lots of info on the swap.

Corvette FAQ has a write-up or two, as well.
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Old Aug 16, 2006 | 03:46 PM
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Default

Originally Posted by I'm Batman
Search the archives for lots of info on the swap.

Corvette FAQ has a write-up or two, as well.

You've got PM.
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