62-67 windshield install (how to w/pics)

[stupesnova]

I Have been meaning to do this for some time now and today I had the opportunity to install a windshield in a 65 Nova SS. So here goes :



First here are the tools you will need hook tool (cotter pin puller), 1/4" or 3/8" rope (3/8" is prefered) and some type of byutl sealant ( tremco wb300 was used here)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2269.jpg

Take the hook tool and pull down on the rubber gasket on the inside of the vehicle breaking it loose from the pinchweld. (spray soapy water on the back side of the lip makes removal easier)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2232.jpg


With your hand GENTLY push out on the glass (You may need a helper to pull down on the rubber lip while pushing out on the glass. You did spray soapy water on the gasket didn't you?)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2233.jpg

once the glass is removed from the car set the windshield on a stand (a large garbage can works in a pinch). Next remove the gasket from the glass being carefull NOT to remove the chrome. If the chrome comes out, don't worry set it aside out of the way and in a safe place. Now put the gasket on the new windshield and make sure it is seated on the glass. If the chrome came out of the gasket now is the time to put it in the gasket. It will go in only one way when it is in you will feel it "lock" onto the gasket. Be sure to get the top and bottom pieces UNDER the sides

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2237.jpg

Next insert the 3/8" rope in the INSIDE lip of the gasket. Start one end at the TOP in the MIDDLE. Make sure to leave around 12 inches hanging out.

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2243.jpg

Run the rope all the way around the gasket and OVERLAP the begining of the rope about 3-4 inches

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2245.jpg

Now you can apply the sealer to the gasket. Look CLOSELY at the picture for proper placement of the sealer. It MUST be applied all the way around the gasket for proper sealing. ( If you don't drive your car in the rain much this step can be skipped :) )

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2249.jpg

Next spray soapy water on the gasket surface. This will help to "SLIDE" the rope out and it helps the rubber "SLIDE" over the pinchweld. With a helper set the windshield in the opening of the car, make sure the rope stays on the inside of the car and the windshield is centered in the opening.

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2250.jpg

Now with a helper on the outside putting LIGHT pressure on the glass pull down on the rope.

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2252.jpg
http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2263.jpg

Pull the rope across the top, down the side and just and inch around the bottom corner the STOP. Go back to the top and pull the rope the other way around to the bottom corner. Then grab both ends and pull towards the middle. You may have to stop pulling every now and again and SLAP the windshield with your hand

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2264.jpg

The next step is to seal the gasket to the glass. Insert the tip of the sealant between the glass and the gasket and pump the sealant all the way around the windshield. (It's a PITA but MOST leaks will come from here)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2265.jpg

All that is left is to clean up the mess from the sealer.:beat: I have found wax and grease remover works best. Now go have a :beer: or 12 and cuss me out for telling you how to do this:D

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r248/stupesnova/HPIM2266.jpg

[NovatoriusRex]

Great instrux!! Nicely done.

Was that a Steele brand gasket you used?

[stupesnova]

Great instrux!! Nicely done.

Was that a Steele brand gasket you used?

Thank you very much! NPHNP Nope that was the gasket the GENERAL sent the Nova out with!:D Also if ANYONE has any questions PM me and I will give you my cell number.

[Argrandawg]

My 67 HT windshield is so scratched I was thinking of getting a new one. Are they available? Any idea how much? Thanks for the install tips I was wondering how that worked.

[stupesnova]

My 67 HT windshield is so scratched I was thinking of getting a new one. Are they available? Any idea how much? Thanks for the install tips I was wondering how that worked.

They are available the part number is a DW 622 for the hard top and DW 621 for the sedans and wagons. Price wise I would recomend shopping around. $100-$200 if you install it or $160-up for the glass shops to do it. Just remember YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!!!!! watch out for brands such as XYG the quality is not very good PPG, PILKINGTON/LOF are the BEST brands.

[Argrandawg]

Thanks again Stupesnova, One more piece of the nova puzzle solved.:)

[batman09]

Very Nice Write up!!Thank You!!bm

[Carl Stevenson]

Thanks very much. Great writeup, and pics to boot!

I did my front and back windows in 1990, and they both leak. Now I know why. I had no idea there is a butyl sealer in a tube available. I learned something new today:)

[THE_330]

very cool I should have waited a few weeks lol

[babydeuce]

I like this one, well done......I think I will make it sticky(no pun intended)

jack

[jaynova]

Glassman, very nice!!! Comprehensive and nice pics. Now do the backwindow so we can see. Is it the same procedure as the front? 63SS .

[acd65post]

Very well done. I would have never thought of using soap. Great idea.I will use this thread whenever it comes time to put the glass back in .

[NovatoriusRex]

Stupesnova,

Do you often find that the OEM gaskets can be reused successfully??

This is the only area of concern I have regarding replacing my windshield. Modern glass quality looks excellent (using the better manufacturers), but even the good replacement seals don't look great when installed. :(

When I get ready to replace my scratched windshield, I was planning on smashing the glass out hoping to save the OEM windshield seal. After 40 years, what are the chances it'll be reusable?

Thanks!

Brent

[stupesnova]

Stupesnova,

Do you often find that the OEM gaskets can be reused successfully??

This is the only area of concern I have regarding replacing my windshield. Modern glass quality looks excellent (using the better manufacturers), but even the good replacement seals don't look great when installed. :(

When I get ready to replace my scratched windshield, I was planning on smashing the glass out hoping to save the OEM windshield seal. After 40 years, what are the chances it'll be reusable?

Thanks!

Brent

MOST oe gaskets can be reused IF they are still pliable (soft) Try to heat the gasket a little with a heat gun to soften it up. I would NOT recomend smashing the glass as this will leave very small particles of glass in the gasket and these pieces can cause stress on the new glass...which means a stress crack:mad: Work slowly and get some help if you have never done this before it will make life easier with a helper.

[stupesnova]

Glassman, very nice!!! Comprehensive and nice pics. Now do the backwindow so we can see. Is it the same procedure as the front? 63SS .

The rear window install IS the same as the front on the 62-65.

[rods65post]

Were the heck where you about 16 months ago:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:
I was a scared puppy doing that for the first time with no instructions. It was alot like doing some other things for the first time (ie riding a bike and changing my kids diaper) LOL Thanks for the tip. I think you hit it on the head too!!!!!!!!

[stupesnova]

Sorry I couldn't have helped you then...Hopefully it will help others who want to save some money or who want to attempt this themselves.

[stupesnova]

Oops!!!!! Forgot to mention the 2 & 4 door sedan and station wagons are the same install as the hard top.:D

[THE_330]

Dude you are so the man, thanks again:beer:

[buickjef]

Nice to know there is another brother of the glass here, I own and operate my own glass and trim shop and have over 18 years experience in autoglass, I've done glass work in everything from model T's to 2007's from the local dealerships. It's always a welcome change to do some glass on an older vintage vehicle, this week I had a nice 427 powered '67 Impala SS in for a replacement!

[weft]

Great info stupesnova i will be doing this very shortley to my 63 and will definatly use the info thanks again "Weft"

[Chori]

Major thanks for the write up, we used it as a guide to put the glass on my bros wagon this past weekend. The seal(can't say co. name) was made wrong,(moldings would not fit) we had to cut more slits into it to try to fit the moldings and it still didn't fit. we installed the glass and seal anyways.

thanks again!:cool:

and 1 question: If one thinks there isn't enough sealant on one side, can one put some more sealant even after a week of it being installed?

[stupesnova]

and 1 question: If one thinks there isn't enough sealant one one side, can one put some more sealant even after a week of it being installed?

Yes you can...but it makes a bigger mess!

[Chori]

Yes you can...but it makes a bigger mess!

i guess its still better than having a leak. :eek: :D :D

[Tom Griffin]

I can't add anything else but THANKS :D nice job of documenting the removal and install;)
Tg

[NIGHTSHADE]

I like this one, well done......I think I will make it sticky(no pun intended)

jack

Not only that, but moving it to the "Best of" may be in order.


Anyway Stupes, yer not far away, wanna put mine in???

[stupesnova]

Not only that, but moving it to the "Best of" may be in order.


Anyway Stupes, yer not far away, wanna put mine in???

Bring it on down with some :beer: and I'll be more than happy too!!!;)

[vincef]

The rear window install IS the same as the front on the 62-65.

Not sure if you can install the rear as same as the front..... need a little help????

I installed the front in my 64 hardtop no prob following your instructions (big thanks!). I used a 3/8" rope as suggested and went right in no problems.

I then attempted to install the rear window using a Steele brand gasket. I put the gasket on the window and then centered it up into the opening of the car. Using the 3/8" rope it seems it maybe to thick.

I could not put enough pressure on the window and pull the rope to get the rubber gasket flange to "grab" the metal body flange.

I did not have a thinner rope to try but any suggestions or pointers to help ease the install of the rear window? Just trying to set the gasket into the car without the rear window was tough on the sides and top where a thin metal panel gets in the way.

Getting ready to go buck up at a glass shop if I can't get it on the next try. what am I missing??:confused:

[stupesnova]

Try having the rope ends cross on the bottom and get someone to help you.

[stupesnova]

I have had a lot of PM's about this I hoped that it has helped a few of you and obviously it has. If any of you have any questions please send me a PM and I will get in contact with you.:beer::beer::beer::beer::beer::beer:

[Bowserhound]

I just saw this thread and can't wait to pry my windshield out. Thing is, there is a long strip along the inside top that appears to be rivetted on, that is really in the way of the top windshield rubber. Do you recommend removing this, or getting creative?

THANKS!

[Bowserhound]

I actually got the windshield out last night. I was pushing "gently" and the whole thing cracked down the center. I resorted to using a 2x4 length wise to try to apply even pressure along the whole top of the glass. Didn't really work too well, maybe because the glass hasn't been removed since the factory.

Doesn't really matter as it already had a crack and is the reason for replacing. Hopefully, the rear window will be more forgiving. The glass is fine, but the rubber seal is cracked and separated in many places.

If anyone has any tips on how to push the glass out a little more "gently", I'm all ears.

THANKS

[Too Tall]

I just did this following the instructions so thoughtfully supplied here :) Be patient and use a fresh painters razor to cut the old seal. Be methodical and take your time. You can't just gently push it out...gotta cut the rubber first.

[Bowserhound]

I thought the initial instructions called for reusing the rubber. So that tells me that there is a way to get the glass out without cutting it.

But, since I have to get new rubber anyway, a cutting I will do.

THANKS

[stupesnova]

I thought the initial instructions called for reusing the rubber. So that tells me that there is a way to get the glass out without cutting it.

But, since I have to get new rubber anyway, a cutting I will do.

THANKS

Be sure to get a STEELE brand gasket for the best fit and quality!!:beer:

[dennisdwd]

Thanks You for the detailed post I did not know the grades of glass varied now I will look like a pro;) when I order new glass for my car.

[stupesnova]

Thanks You for the detailed post I did not know the grades of glass varied now I will look like a pro;) when I order new glass for my car.

NO PROBLEM!! If you have any Questions PM me your number and I can call you and hopefully answer them!:rolleyes:

[vincef]

I installed my front w/o issues BUT still having troubles w/ my rear window so thought I would take some pictures.

First is how the rear window sits in the rear channel in my 64 hardtop - does this appear to be the correct rear window?
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s293/vincef/1964%20Chevy%20II/Chevy%20II%20Rear%20Window/DSC01400.jpg

Next is pics of the STEELE brand gasket. It almost seem the rear window should be installed from the inside of the car. Is this right? I assume this because the channel in the seal for the rear window is farther in that the channel in the seal for the body's "lip". I can not see how the seal in going to pull onto the body lip because the window will not fit inside the opening.....
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s293/vincef/1964%20Chevy%20II/Chevy%20II%20Rear%20Window/DSC01405.jpg

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s293/vincef/1964%20Chevy%20II/Chevy%20II%20Rear%20Window/DSC01403.jpg

Any details or pointers on how to get this window and seal installed? I am baffeled b/c the seal seems to position the window inside the body's lip but this doesn't seem right....?

[stupesnova]

You are trying to put the gasket on BACKWARDS, turn it around and you will have no problems!;)

[NIGHTSHADE]

You are trying to put the gasket on BACKWARDS, turn it around and you will have no problems!;)


In the imortal words of Homer Simpson........ DOH!!!!!:beat:

[vincef]

You are trying to put the gasket on BACKWARDS, turn it around and you will have no problems!;)

Dang - WOW I AM ........ (pick a ending)

All the time I spent staring at this thing.... in my defense it just seems to go the other way...... hahahahahaha

[stupesnova]

Dang - WOW I AM ........ (pick a ending)

...A NEWBIE AT PUTTING IN GLASS!!!!!!:rolleyes::awkward::D

[DEL]

Today I spent about an hour and removed the windshield out of my 67. It came out without too much trouble and in one piece!

This post saved me $80 and the hassle of coordinating with a mobile windshield repair company (who told me over and over that they would probably break the windshield trying to remove it). It also gave me the satisfaction of doing something myself.

This kind of quality information posted in a forum like this pays off over and over.

Thanks much!!!

[stupesnova]

Today I spent about an hour and removed the windshield out of my 67. It came out without too much trouble and in one piece!

This post saved me $80 and the hassle of coordinating with a mobile windshield repair company (who told me over and over that they would probably break the windshield trying to remove it). It also gave me the satisfaction of doing something myself.

This kind of quality information posted in a forum like this pays off over and over.

Thanks much!!!




It probably saved you more than $80 because they WOULD have probably broke your W/S!:yes: Now just remember to follow the directions when installing the glass!



P.S. YOUR WELCOME!!!!!
:D

[65Nova4door]

I Have been meaning to do this for some time now and today I had the opportunity to install a windshield in a 65 Nova SS.

great job. you wanna do a tutorial for installing rear window trim? if you do, I'd like to send it to the guy that butchered mine!!! (http://www.stevesnovasite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=87189):devil::devil::devil::devil ::devil:

[kcmocarguy]

I am a little concerned about the guy getting my rear trim put on right. I bought Steele gaskets since I am told they are the best. I have all of the clips for the trim but am still concerned. The guy that is going to do it has been around glass for a while, I hope it works. Is the install fairly routine for older cars?

[stupesnova]

WELL how did it go? We need pics! :yes::D

[Jake]

VERY valuable thread. Thanks for taking the time to show us how to do it properly!:yes:

[Ryan V64SS]

I am going to give removal a try tomorrow. Hope I dont break anything:rolleyes:

[JRouche]

What a great service you have provided "stupesnova", sorry, dont know yer name.

I just bought some new glass and yer step by step instructions have me feeling more comfortable. Well, not as comfortable as having you here leading me by the newbie hand.

I bought some Softseal gaskets before I saw yer nod towards Steele. Any issues you have heard of with theirs. I would rather buy the Steele product now if there is an issue with SS gaskets.

I bought four tubes of Sikaflex 220+ sealant on another recommendation. Wasnt cheap either. Any advise?? Toss it for another??

Last but most importantly, how do we get a sixer of yer favorite suds to you?? Fedex? Paypal??

Thanks for all yer help. John Rouche

[Ryan V64SS]

Well both my front and back glass came out in one piece:). If I can offer a suggestion on the front windshield to make it come out easier I bought a bunch of popsicle sticks and as I pulled the gasket out on the sides and top I jammed a stick between the pinchweld and gasket every couple of inches which held the gasket open. The windshield came out very easy. The back glass gasket was soo cracked that I cut it out after I removed the trim and pulled the glass out from the bottom. My only question is probably pretty obvious but here goes... On the back window the order is window and gasket on first and trim on last as it is not in the gasket like the front glass it is attached to the body right?

[stupesnova]

What a great service you have provided "stupesnova", sorry, dont know yer name.

I just bought some new glass and yer step by step instructions have me feeling more comfortable. Well, not as comfortable as having you here leading me by the newbie hand.

I bought some Softseal gaskets before I saw yer nod towards Steele. Any issues you have heard of with theirs. I would rather buy the Steele product now if there is an issue with SS gaskets.

I bought four tubes of Sikaflex 220+ sealant on another recommendation. Wasnt cheap either. Any advise?? Toss it for another??

Last but most importantly, how do we get a sixer of yer favorite suds to you?? Fedex? Paypal??

Thanks for all yer help. John Rouche


You can fed ex the suds to me! PM me and I will send you my address!:yes::yes::D:D If I remember correctly the sikaflex 220 has to be heated to 180+ degrees F! If you don't heat it it will not cure properly. By the way DO NOT use it to seal the W/S !!! If you do it will NOT come back out if you ever need to replace the glass again!!!:no:

Jeremy

[stupesnova]

My only question is probably pretty obvious but here goes... On the back window the order is window and gasket on first and trim on last as it is not in the gasket like the front glass it is attached to the body right?


It depends...do you have a sedan or a hardtop?

[Ryan V64SS]

It depends...do you have a sedan or a hardtop?

Hardtop...

[stupesnova]

You are correct. On the hardtop the glass goes into the gasket and then into the car. Then the chrome snaps onto the clips OVER the gasket!

[JRouche]

You can fed ex the suds to me!


Its on the way....
The only way I could afford Fed-Ex was to get you some "light" beer, they ship on weight ya know LOL Thanks Stupes!!!! JR

[benslick]

Thanks for the help!

Mark

[bbqrat]

Something is wrong... you made it look so simple...and it look just great finished... Thanks for the education...did you use the original gasket?

[chuckha62]

+1 for Steele! Just had both the front and back glass reinstalled in my '63. When the glass guy showed up he asked me what brand gasket I bought. I told him and he was less than positive about them, "had problems, blah, blah, blah..." He said I should have bought "Precision", but he'd give it a try.

He had both windows in in less than a half hour and said the Steele went in MUCH easier than the last Nova he did with Precision. He changed his mind and was going to start buying Steele for older cars.

Whew!