Windshield installation help

[77_MG_Midget]

As part of the rebuild on my 77 Midget, I had to replace the gasket between the windshield and the body. Getting the gasket into the windshield frame was easy... now, does anybody have a trick to get the windshield to mount to the body. I can't seem to compress the new gasket enough to be able to get the windshield mounting bolts started... HELP!... Thanks!

 

[tony barnhill]

Glass shop - pay them any amount of money they want to put it back together & install on car

 

[GB1]

I had the same problem.

I actually (AND WOULD NOT RECOMMEND!!!) Stood on top of the very top of the windshield, braced myself from the ceiling and had someone gently slid (force) the bolts in. We had used the camphered head ones that are usually used to line up body panels.

The windshield did not break, but please do not attampt this.

I had bought a Moss seal and if you have the same, maybe that is the problem. I would however recommend getting a seal from a different supplier.

 

[Trevor Jessie]

It can be done with some creative prybars and an assistant. If you are planning on removing the dash, now is a good time. It makes the job easier. I've replaced mine once, and I'm about to do it again. Sorry, I can't provide you with any specific tips.

 

[77_MG_Midget]

yes, the dash has been removed. I gutted the car before sending it into paint. just got the wiring harness back in and figured on putting the windshield back in place before the dash

 

[Trevor Jessie]

OK, If you get really desperate here is a risky trick.

Position the car so that the corner of the windshield frame is below a ceiling joist in the garage. Cut a 2x4 to length so that it fits from the top of the frame to ceiling. Use a short bit of rope at the top of the 2x4 to secure it to the ceiling (to protect the car should it slip). Now you can place a jack under that side of the car (at the crossmember) and raise the car and press the winshield pillar into place.

Remember: I'm a HillBilly. ;-)

 

[jlaird]

Or you could very carefully turn the car over on a jack and use the car weight against the floor to push it into place.

This is the place for creative solutions isn't it?

Ceiling joist methoid seems dooable. Gesh, I had forgotten about that problem, always just worried it into place.

 

[Trevor Jessie]

Not a problem on a Mk I or mk II sprite.

 

[jlaird]

"0" wish I had known that, was a real pain job as I remember, even broke a piller ear one time doing the job. Good thing I had extras. And complements of Jollyroger I have an extra now as well, thanks Jolly.

 

[77_MG_Midget]

hmmmm... although carefully turning the car over seems like a solution, I'm kinda thinking there MUST be an easier way. Hopefully this isn't AS bad as what i'm hearing.

All else fails, anything can be fixed with 5 gals. of gas and a zippo.... lol

 

[SilentUnicorn]

its a real pain, thats for sure, just be glad your not trying to do the glass also...i did it by pinning one side with a drift, then working the other side down with another drift, and getting a bolt started, then back to the other side. i sure would like to know how this was done at the factory.


mark

 

[Trevor Jessie]

I've actually seen pictures of the 2x4 method, and am contemplating using this method when I replace mine.

I can't find the pointy 90 degree prybar I made for the last installation.