Convertible Windshield GLUE
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 164
Likes: 1
From: Houston Texas
Convertible Windshield GLUE
Hi everyone. It has been a long time I didn't post anything here!
Here we go: I completed an entire frame off restoration on my 71 convertible LS5. Among the last tasks was the replacement of the broken windshield with a new one.
Then I took the car for a first drive after restoration: As soon as I got out of the driveway onto the street, I saw a crack forming on the right side of the new windshield. After a couple miles, the crack now goes from the top to the bottom of the windshield.
Before replacing it, I like to know what I did wrong not to repeat the same mistake: A convertible is more flexible than a coupe and it probably stresses the windshield more. Is there a specific way to glue the windshield so that it does not apply too much stress on the glass as the car goes over bumps? A specific glue to use that doesn't harden too much?
Here we go: I completed an entire frame off restoration on my 71 convertible LS5. Among the last tasks was the replacement of the broken windshield with a new one.
Then I took the car for a first drive after restoration: As soon as I got out of the driveway onto the street, I saw a crack forming on the right side of the new windshield. After a couple miles, the crack now goes from the top to the bottom of the windshield.
Before replacing it, I like to know what I did wrong not to repeat the same mistake: A convertible is more flexible than a coupe and it probably stresses the windshield more. Is there a specific way to glue the windshield so that it does not apply too much stress on the glass as the car goes over bumps? A specific glue to use that doesn't harden too much?
Race Director
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 11,360
Likes: 382
From: Plano TX
I'm worried by you using the term "glue". A C3 windshield is not glued in, it sits on a rubbery caulking that never hardens completely, called a "ribbon seal".
This is what you need. It comes in different thicknesses. I used the 3/8" version, some prefer the thinner 5/16".
This is what you need. It comes in different thicknesses. I used the 3/8" version, some prefer the thinner 5/16".
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 8,918
Likes: 27
From: New Hill NC
The windshield needs to be spaced up off of the frame and at the bottom of the glass to make sure there is no metal contact.
You also need to take care with the screws for the side moulding. Too long and they will contact the glass and crack it.
You also need to take care with the screws for the side moulding. Too long and they will contact the glass and crack it.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,160
Likes: 4,236
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi A,
I'll also add that what seems like the smallest 'nick' with a tool on the EDGE of the glass while installation can cause a crack. This is why trying to put the upper trim clip screws in place with the glass installed is SO dangerous.
Regards,
Alan
PS: How about a few pictures of your 71? Please?
I'll also add that what seems like the smallest 'nick' with a tool on the EDGE of the glass while installation can cause a crack. This is why trying to put the upper trim clip screws in place with the glass installed is SO dangerous.
Regards,
Alan
PS: How about a few pictures of your 71? Please?
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