I have an issue with the back mirror on my 2002 convertible. I'd read about this problem elsewhere on this Forum but I was wondering if anyone would be able to help me more.

I spoke to two dealers where I live about this and of course they all want to replace the top but I have read here that some people recommend RHINO GLUE which of course is a lot cheaper than buying a new top. My questions are: does this glue do the trick and does it last long and are there any suggestions anyone could make as to how to go about applying it. Below are pictures of the back window. Many thanks..

 

I glued mine, but it was a PITA, and it really didn't last very long. I got the top replaced. The new top came with a lifetime warranty on the rear window. No shop is going to glue it for you. Find a good upholstery shop. They will be cheaper, and do a better job than any dealership.

 

This may be an alternative to a new top:

 

I agree that the easiest way is just to replace the top. I had a 1996 convertible cavalier that the back window was falling out. At that time the car had 180k on it and I was not about to replace the top. I glued it back using Dow corning rtv clear silicone. I applied around whole window and it lased for a few more years until I junked it. It did become hard and opague where it was exposed to the elements, but the window was in rock solid. Today there are other proven methods that might be better to use to glue it in. You have already mentioned them I can tell you this if my window was falling out I would do it again, although I would look into the newer methods. It makes sense to try and glue it and if you fail just get a new top.

 

Thanks I''ll check into this!

 

Thanks. Good suggestion!! I think I have around 110,000 miles on mine and I see no sense in paying $1500 or whatever for a new top so I'll keep your side in mind!!

 

I'm getting ready to do mine in the next day or so and this is what I'm going to use

https://www.autozone.com/sealants-gl...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

That's great my friend. Thanks so much. Let me know how it works out. I appreciate this.!!

 

Here is a good write up on fixing it.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-refasten.html

 

Last year, I used Rhino glue on my wife’s 2006 VW Convertible Beetle. It held very well for a few months then I sold the car. I don’t know how much longer it held afterward.
However, for about $10 worth of glue and half a day’s work, I would do it every few months.

 

Thanks. I did see this before!

 

New tops are around $700 and same style as OEM fabric from what I'm told. I just bought this adhesive on amazon.
Did anyone use tape over the fabric and window afterwards?

 

I used the 3M window adhesive along with their primer. So far 2 1/2 years and still holding up. Just need to make sure you prep it well. I scuffed up the inside of the top where the glass attaches with some sandpaper.

 

Quesions:
How much did you apply?
any issues with it oozing out?
Did you only scuff up the convertible not and not the glass?

 

My 04 vert back window releases about once every 2 years. I just use RHINO glue and it works. CF has pics on the process. I consider this just another routine maintence issue in the Vert. Takes about 2 hours of prep and application to complete. See no reason to replace the a almost new looking top with a possible water intrusion issues after installation of a new top..

 

I don't recall how much. I just had one tube, you can wipe the excess off before it sets up. I just scuffed the convertible part and cleaned it with isopropyl alcohol, then coated both the top and glass with the 3M primer.

 

First off, I'm assuming you mean the rear window, NOT the mirror! That said, you'll find you can repair it yourself, but it's much easier to do BEFORE it falls out. I repaired mine in 2014, using 3M Window Weld. You need some strong suction cups, similar to what windshield installers use. I bought some intended for home shower stalls. I also used some motorcycle tiedowns, and attached one end of them to my ceiling trusses, and the other end hooked to the handle of the 2 suction cups. It's really not too difficult if you really think it thru in advance. I recommend the Window Weld. My glass has been resealed for 8 years, and over 30,000 miles. Never leaked. The stuff really works. But the good Lord has never made anything so sticky, and it's not easy to work with. I used some popsicle sticks to help spread it, and made sure to have a can or two of brake parts cleaner handy. It's about the only thing that can remove/cut the stuff. In hindsight, I'd probably recommend using masking tape to protect the top material from the stuff. If you do get it on the top, the parts cleaner will cut it, but it's best to not get it on there in the first place. Clean the surface of the top, and glass where the adhesive is going to be applied. If done properly, the stuff will work for many years. If I get 6 more years out of mine, and I fully expect to, it will have lasted as long as the original GM top to glass adhesive.. Hope this helps.........

 

What did you do and use for prep?

 

I just added the 3m adhesive and I was pressing down on the fabric so it can stick. I didn't know it's tacky enough to bond the glass and fabric so now I'm dealing with oozing. Sure I did add a bit much but only because my hands don't have a firm grip with the caulking gun.

Any idea how long I should leave the suction cups on for? How about when I should start the clean up? This stuff is messy for sure.

 

Quick update, much easier to wait 30-45 min after you apply for clean up and trimming. Use a flat razor blade otherwise you'll be smearing the 3m window weld, rags don't work.

You'd be sorry if you work dirty and or wear cheap gloves. This stuff smear all over your gloves super easy.