How to Replace a Windshield on a 1998 Chevy 1500
by Katebo
You should replace the windshield on your '98 Chevy Silverado 1500 when it has a crack in it that is longer than 6 inches. Cracks of that length compromise the integrity of the windshield. You may also wish to replace your windshield if it has chips and smaller cracks in it because these may eventually grow in size. Besides protecting you from debris, a windshield can help keep you from being thrown from your Chevy in the event of an accident. The windshield also helps the airbags deploy properly and it prevents the roof from caving in if the vehicle rolls over. If you can find a windshield from a 1998 Chevy Silverado 1500 that's in good condition from an auto wrecking yard, you will probably save yourself some money.
Step 1
Unscrew the rear view mirror screw and slip the mirror out.
Step 2
Remove each windshield wiper by lifting them up and prying up the base with a large flathead screwdriver. Put the screwdriver between the retaining nut and the arm of each wiper. Move the arm back and forth as you pry to remove the arm. Set the windshield wiper arms aside.
Step 3
Tape over all dashboard vents to protect them from small pieces of glass.
Step 4
Remove the rubber gasket from around the windshield using a razor knife. Try not to touch the windshield glass with the knife. Push the windshield out of the vehicle from inside the Chevy as your assistant catches it from the outside.
Step 5
Clean the frame, the gasket and the dashboard with a clean wet cloth. Leave the replacement gasket in a warm, sunny place for a few hours to make it more flexible.
Step 6
Place a layer of sealant on the gasket's bottom part in the channel. Slip the gasket onto the windshield, taking care to put the side with the slit facing outside of the vehicle.
Step 7
Spread petroleum jelly into the gasket's outer groove and line a heavy nylon cord around the groove beginning with the bottom center part of the windshield and going all the way around. Leave a foot of cord loose and dangling down at each end.
Step 8
Place the windshield into the windshield frame from outside of the Silverado, making sure you leave the loose rope hanging inside the vehicle.
Step 9
Tug slowly on the cord to pull the gasket inside the vehicle. Have your assistant push the gasket to the outside of the windshield frame while you are pulling from the inside. Allow the sealant to cure for 24 hours before driving.
References
- "Chevrolet and GMC Pick-Ups (1988-2000) (Haynes Manuals)"; Haynes; 2001
Things You'll Need
- Large flathead screwdriver
- Masking tape
- Razor knife
- Assistant
- Replacement rubber gasket
- Wet terry cloth
- Sealant
- Replacement windshield
- Petroleum jelly
- Heavy nylon cord
Writer Bio
Katie B. Marsh is a self-published author, article writer, screenwriter, and inventor. After graduating from South Coast College of Court Reporting, she worked as a congressional and freelance court reporter for eight years. She began her writing career in 2005. Her content may be found on amazon.com, booksforsharing.com, and ezinearticles.com. She completed her first screenplay in October 2009.
