Installing window in hardtop

[IvaTiger]

I am about ready to install the plexiglass into the hardtop I have all the parts including the stainless trim and clips. I would appreciate any procedure tips. I think I read somewhere that you install the plexiglass into the rubber then put the trim into the rubber then install the whole unit into the hardtop opening ?

 

[hottigr]

I have done that job one time. IIRC most of the tips regarding this job talk about doing it from the outside. I positioned the hard top in such a way on the ground that I could basically crawl underneath it and was able to get the rubber seal into the channel from the inside without the string that some people have used. All that was required was a plastic scraper to get the seal seated from underneath. Kirk

 

[Austin Healer]

the easiest way to install the rear glass is thus... fit plexiglass into seal. put 20 ga insulated wire into the groove of the seal that the hardtop glass fits into (pinch weld). fit seal over bottom flange. have an assistant hold on to one end of the wire and then pull the other end toward yourself (from inside the top) while applying pressure to the window. the act of pulling the wire will pull the seal lip over pinch weld.

 

[Warren]

"I think I read somewhere that you install the plexiglass into the rubber then put the trim into the rubber then install the whole unit into the hardtop opening"

I agree with this. It's the same way other period car's. If you've done a VW it's the same. Sean's method is great . I'd add the helper can thump the plexi with the palm of the hand.
A little sprayer with clean soapy water and be sure the headliner is glued down well. I don't remember if the little rectangular clips remain in place .

 

[IvaTiger]

Thanks for the feedback ! I have just finished installing the windshield and I must say it is not the easiest thing to do ! It turned out pretty good. Way too many pieces to it , trim rubber screws etc. labor costs I am sure would be more than having a one piece aluminum frame and having a rubber insert piece like the Jaguar s have

 

[Austin Healer]

Thanks for the feedback ! I have just finished installing the windshield and I must say it is not the easiest thing to do ! It turned out pretty good. Way too many pieces to it , trim rubber screws etc. labor costs I am sure would be more than having a one piece aluminum frame and having a rubber insert piece like the Jaguar s have

Thanks for the feedback ! I have just finished installing the windshield and I must say it is not the easiest thing to do ! It turned out pretty good. Way too many pieces to it , trim rubber screws etc. labor costs I am sure would be more than having a one piece aluminum frame and having a rubber insert piece like the Jaguar s have

much easier to install the w/s glass with the frame off of the car!

 

[0neoffive]

much easier to install the w/s glass with the frame off of the car!

I can and have done a few. But our glass guy wanders in often enough that it’s so easy to delegate.

 

[hottigr]

BTW- the way I did it was for a one-man job...no assistant. Leaned on the glass from the outside, then went underneath to seat any areas that were hung up or didn't seat from outside pressure.

 

[IvaTiger]

BTW- the way I did it was for a one-man job...no assistant. Leaned on the glass from the outside, then went underneath to seat any areas that were hung up or didn't seat from outside pressure.

That was with the frame already installed ?

 

[hottigr]

I put the stainless trim on afterwards.