Part 9: How to Install a Windshield

4. Since our windshield is recycled, the old sealer and dirt were removed. With a razor blade, we scraped off most of the old sealer, then worked it over with WD-40 to remove the rest of it. Finally, glass cleaner was used to remove any remaining residue and ensure proper adhesion to the sealant.

5. Before installing the windshield, we cleaned the opening and repaired any rust. Our Valiant's opening was in good shape, so we cleaned the old sealer from the frame and used the air compressor to blow away any loose debris.

6. Place a bead of sealer around the opening. The bottom of the seal does not have a lip like the sides and top do. Place a 1/4-inch bead as far to the inside of the opening as possible. On the sides and the top, place a small bead as close to the edge of the lip as you can. After applying the sealer, install the weatherstrip into the windshield. Be sure to check the sealer manufacturer's instructions regarding set time before installing the weatherstrip.

7. With the weatherstrip installed into the opening of the car, put a small bead of sealer into the groove that receives the windshield. Now place the windshield into the bottom portion of the groove in the weatherstrip. The groove in the weatherstrip has a locking lip that allows it to be opened to slide the glass into place.

7. (B) With the lip unlocked, we used a plastic roller made for screen-door repairs to pull the lip up over the windshield. Take your time. The job would be easier with the proper tool, but who has a windshield tool lying around?

8. The locking lip simply folds under and holds the windshield in place.

9. For our stainless trim, we thought we'd have to scour the swap meets. Luckily, Layson's Restorations has a vast assortment of used trim pieces. We started at the bottom of the windshield and carefully pressed the trim over the clips. Do not use brute force to put the trim on because you could dent the trim or have to start over when you put your hand through the windshield.

10. Once the trim was on, all that was left was to give it a bath with a garden hose. This revealed any leaks before we hit the road.