How to Repair an Automobile Windshield
A damaged windshield should always be promptly repaired, if not replaced. The windshield is actually a major structural component of your vehicle's cabin, and driving with a damaged or unstable windshield can be dangerous, especially if you encounter strong winds or are involved in a crash. Windshield work often requires professional help, but for the experienced practitioner, it is possible to repair your own.
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Instructions
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Acquire a thorough understanding of how to remove and install windshields by reading a good selection of auto repair manuals. You can obtain such manuals and reference materials from your car dealership or you can purchase windshield repair videos, either from your local bookstore or online. You should feel absolutely comfortable in repairing your car's windshield.
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Wax down the windshield moldings until it is completely soaked, allowing you to easily remove the trim without damaging the windshield itself. If possible, repeat this process everyday for at least three days, especially if the trim is old and rusted. When the molding is completely soft, removing the trimmings should be almost automatic.
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Slip the hooked trim removal tool underneath the trim so that the hook can connect with one of the clips. Release the clip by pulling the tool toward you or the middle of the window. Normally the trim will be connected with a snap on clip or a bolt on clip. Repeat this process for each clip along the windshield.
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Cut the butyl window seal away from the windshield with a utility knife. Do this around the whole circumference of the windshield. This must be done with caution in order not to further damage the glass.
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Use the cold knife to penetrate the butyl material. To do this, position the 90 degree blade of the cold knife into the channel between the windshield and metal frame. The blade should be in alignment with the frame of the windshield. Pulling the T-handle of the cold knife should allow it to penetrate the butyl material. The whole process of cutting through the butyl material should take no longer than six minutes.
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Push out the windshield gently from inside the car. As you do this, the window will stay in place due to the factory rests attached to the cowl. Seek an assistant or two to hold the windshield up until you get out of the car. Once the windshield is removed, put it aside for repair and installation.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you clean away as much of the butyl material as possible. To do this, you can use a putty knife along with a mineral solvent. Get rid of as much rust as possible within the windshield channel and cowl areas. Once this is finished, the windshield should then be able to fit perfectly within the channel.
In order for you first attempt at repairing or installing a windshield to be a success, you should never try to repair your windshield without adequate knowledge and without a good assistant. You will do more damage than good if you drop and break the windshield while trying to install it yourself.
References
- Photo Credit the old car image by Yuri Bizgaimer from Fotolia.com
