How to Install a Windshield in a 1957 Chevy Car
by Contributing Writer
Perhaps the most popular classic car of the '50s is the 1957 Chevrolet. Its graceful lines and sweeping tail fins leave a lasting memory in many a young car lovers eyes. The venerable '57 Chevy has been restored, hot-rodded and customized and immortalized in countless car magazines over the years. There are many aftermarket parts suppliers thriving on the love for this elegant beauty. While many restoration projects require professional assistance, installing a new windshield is a relatively easy job for the car owner.
Step 1
Prepare the windshield. Place the rubber molding around the windshield. Starting at the center of the bottom of the molding, insert the cord into the channel of the molding and thread it around the entire length of the windshield and molding. Be sure to overlap the cord two or three inches at the bottom, leaving about a foot of cord outside of the molding. A small piece of tape can be used to secure the cord inside of the molding's lip.
Step 2
Lubricate the molding. Mix a solution of two parts water and one part liquid soap (dish detergent) in the spray bottle and mix well. Spray the entire perimeter of the windshield molding channel containing the cord. Spray the metal lip of the car where the windshield molding will be installed. This will help the rubber molding slide over the steel lip and secure the windshield.
Step 3
Install the windshield. With the help of a friend, place the windshield and molding onto the bottom edge of the metal lip of the windshield opening of the car. Have a helper push against the windshield holding it in place while you get inside the car. From inside the car, pull the cord while your helper pushes against the windshield. Continue pulling the cord as the rubber lip of the molding slides over the metal lip and the windshield slips into place.
References
Tips
- A thin plastic putty knife can be used to assist the rubber molding in sliding over the metal lip of the car. Place it beside the cord as you pull it and ease the rubber lip over the metal.
Things You'll Need
- Windshield
- Rubber molding
- Cord, 1/16-inch
- Liquid soap
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Tape
- Helper
- Thin plastic putty knife
Warnings
- Never glue the rubber molding to the windshield. The rubber and glass are meant to move inside of each other. Gluing the two together will cause leaks, squeaks and possible cracks to the glass.
