VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Upholstery - Interiors & Glass Removing glass

I would like to remove one piece front and rear glass without destroying it. in a 55.1 truck. I will go back with new strips. Should I cut the old or try to reuse them?

I would ask if you are going to remove the glass Why? and a good answer would ,to me, be the rubber is yucky. The shop manual shows how to remove and replace the windshield, and the rear window, there are two varietys with chrome trim and plain rubber. Most body men I know cut the rubber around the outside and gently push the windshield out the front. You will need someone helping to prevent the windshield and truck from being damaged. I would not use a glass shop that isn't used to these model vehicles, I have seen windshield replacers mess up badly on the old stuff. that is just IMHO.

Not sure about the 55.1, but on my 55.2 the rear window has a unique curve that isn't easily replaced. Be careful & not break it. Mine was polished and reinstalled.

The old rubber really does not look real bad, But I want to clean and paint under it. As well clean the glass and reseal. I do not think I could reuse the old weatherstrip/ too dry And its a flat glass

Charlie, I think i would clean around the windshield with a good dleaner , get the dirt out with a toothbrush and then check for leaks with a waterhose and not pull the windshield if it appears to be ok, maybe use some silicone or rejeuvenator on the rubber.

I would think you could afford to do a awful careful masking job rather than spending all the time and money replaceing the rubber, IMHO!

Hi Charlie-
The pinchweld metal seam beneath the windshield and back glass rubber is notorious for collecting moisture and causing hidden rusting. You are wise to want to get to it and arrest any problems that may have begun there. Getting the old rubber out in one piece without ruining the glass will be nearly impossible (and reused old rubber does not seal properly), so I would definitely cut the old out and use new rubber. Back glass replacements are a snap, and can be easily done without help. The windshield is another matter, though. Getting it out can be carefully accomplished by one person, using duct tape to prevent a slip, and lots of towels for protecting both glass and paint. To avoid damage to the glass, take great care to uniformly support the windshield when pushing on it or moving it around. Reinstallation requires two people, and a carefully considered plan of attack with all tools and sealant laid out like a surgeon's instruments. Many modern sealants are not compatible with rubber gaskets, so it is important to use the right one. Butyl works OK, and has the advantage over silicone because it can be cleaned with mineral spirits (important as you will soon find out), but is very stiff and must be heated so it will flow easily. I consider replacing a front windshield one of the most nerve-racking steps in restoring a car. I have done a lot of them but never look forward to it. If you need more help or reassurance, please don't hesitate to ask.

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