Windshield replacement procedure?

[coreydmc]

Hi everyone,
I am about to replace the windshield. I did this about 15 years ago and can't remember how I did it. I have looked for a tutorial or guideline on the process but can't seem to find anything. Maybe I am blind! Is there a good write up on the procedure to install it? Is it only held in with urethane or urethane and butyl? I think I used thin butyl on the sides and thicker on the top and bottom but can't remember. Any information would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you in advance!
Corey

[Ethan Rode]

Hi Corey,
I'm not aware of a write-up on the procedure outside of what's described in the workshop manual. We're lucky to have a great glass guy who's also an owner, here in AZ. He's done several D windshields, as well as other glass on the car. Here's some pointers from helping him..

-Do not attempt with a bad roofbox. The glass is integral to supporting the weight of the roof.
-The doors must remain closed while the glass is out or while the urethane is curing.
-The glass should be installed with a high-quality urethane. Contact surfaces must be free of butyl, oils, and contaminants. Remove as much old urethane as possible without damage to the underbody. If any old urethane remains, it should be cut down to 1/16" or less, and must be flat and smooth.
-Definitely do use the primer and activator specified for the urethane you choose.
- If the glass is to be out of the car for more than 24 hours, it's recommended that the roof be supported. I built a jig using scrap wood and carpet, with a scissor jack to do this. For added peace of mind, shim the doors to maintain panel gaps.
- Rear view mirror is attached with supplied double sided tape or 3M VHB tape. Do not glue the mirror on, it will crack the windshield.

Briefly, the procedure would be:
-Pull back the outer door seals to reveal the fasteners for the window trim pieces. Remove trim pieces, and set aside. Also remove wiper arms, and the plastic grate below the windscreen
-With the doors open, cut out the adhesive on the vertical sides of the windscreen.
-Close the doors and lower the windows
-Break the remaining bonds between the glass and the car and remove the windscreen.
-prepare the mating surface on the car
-replace A-pillar trim now, if needed
-apply urethane primer and activator on the new glass and on the mating surfaces of the car.
-Run a 1/2 wide x 5/8" tall triangular bead on the new glass, overlapping stops and starts by 1"
-Using suction cups, set the new glass in place. There are a couple "saddles" that locate the bottom of the glass.
-Check for even reveal side to side, and then apply gentle hand pressure to seat the glass
-Wait 24hrs before re installing trim and wipers

Good luck!

[coreydmc]

Ethan,
Thank you very much for taking time out of your busy day to help me understand more about replacing the windshield!
I really appreciate it
Corey