Removing a Glue-In Windshield

Early automobiles and trucks often had windshield glass mounted in frames and secured to the car, but by the 1930s, most cars had the windshield mounted in a rubber gasket and secured in place by the interior trim panels. As car designs evolved, the introduction of the glue-in windshield became common practice by the 1960s. This made it fast and easy for auto manufacturers to set the windshield and reduced the possibility of leaks. Unfortunately car restorers don’t always favor these glue-in windshields, as they require special skills and tools to replace the glass.

As we have often said, any car restoration is actually an accumulation of several smaller restoration projects, and there are few projects the die-hard car enthusiast won’t tackle. Sadly, replacing glued-in windshields or even removing the windshield and back glass from a car being restored is a task many will simply avoid at all costs. We’ve all seen those beautifully restored cars at events that are beginning to show those telltale signs of glass that was never pulled, as rust begins to bubble the paint around the opening.

Removing or replacing the windshield doesn’t have to be a scary proposition, and in doing so, you’ll improve the quality of your restoration. We join professional auto body technician Terry Wright and car owner Ross Kiehl as they take us step by step through the process of removing a windshield, understanding the tools needed to do the job and demonstrating how to do it safely. Wright shares some helpful tips to assist you through the process and explains what to look for in completing the job.