Remove and install the front and rear windshield

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635sharknose
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Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by 635sharknose »

I want to get my car painted, the paint is weathered so a new coat of paint will do him good.

Does anyone have experience with both rear and front windshield removal? I would like to get it out during the spraying of the car.
The chrome trim around the windows is in very good condition, so I don't really want to damage it.
The rubbers seals are also in good condition and feel quite supple.
Does anyone have any tips on how to remove and replace things without damaging the chrome trim and rubber seals?
Paul
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1987 635CSi Bronzitbeige
Jubilados
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by Jubilados »

Hi, I just did this with my front windshield.
It was easy to take out.
I pulled off the interior A pillar trim pieces.
Then, from the inside, using just my fingers (no tools) I started at the top corner driver’s side, and began prying the rubber seal over the lip of the frame.
Worked my way across the top to the pass side.
Then down each side.
Once you have the rubber pried off on the top and both sides, with an assistant you can simply lift it off the car.
That’s what I did, took around 15-20 minutes.
Jubilados
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by Jubilados »

This is all done while the chrome lock trim is in place.
Never try to remove that trim while the windshield is in the car.
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635sharknose
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by 635sharknose »

Thank you very much for this information.
That sounds much easier than I expected.
Do you happen to know if the rear windshield can be removed in the same way?
Thanks!
Paul
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Instagram: @635sharknose
1987 635CSi Bronzitbeige
Jubilados
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by Jubilados »

I’m going to guess it’s the same. I’d be 99% sure. But I’ve never actually done it so I can’t say with certainty.
These windshields are standard Euro 80s setups.
I’ve done it on my E21 (which is a bit easier to install because it uses a plastic style “chrome” locking strip), and on my 80s 911. Front and rear were the same on those cars.
You’ll see once you get the first bit of rubber pried over the frame, it’s an easy, controlled process.
To reinstall, google ‘rope method’. It’ll explain it better than I can.
Jubilados
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by Jubilados »

This is all done with finger pressure, no tools, never forcing anything.
Be sure to handle the chrome lock strip very gently. Don’t ever apply any pressure or bend it. Once it’s bent it’s very difficult to ever get it to seat right again.
Removal is a piece of cake. Install can sometimes be a bit trickier.
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635sharknose
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by 635sharknose »

Thanks! [-o<
It will take a while before I will actually do it. I will post the results when it's done.
Paul
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1987 635CSi Bronzitbeige
Pod
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by Pod »

Be very careful when removing the front 'screen as it is very easy to crack it (ask me how I know.... :wink: ). The rear 'screen is much (in my experience) easier to remove and can be pushed out with your feet.
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635sharknose
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Re: Remove and install the front and rear windshield

Post by 635sharknose »

Thanks Pod!
My front windshield is in bad condition, so I can give it a try, when it breaks, it will be not a problem. Most important is too keep the rubber and chrome trims in good shape.
Surely I want to keep the rear windshield in good condition so luckily this is the easy one.
Paul
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Instagram: @635sharknose
1987 635CSi Bronzitbeige
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