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MGB Getting that Windshield Back on the Car

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72MGdriver

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Pulled the windshield to replace the frame-to-body gasket which was old and rotten and painted by the DPO. I have managed to get the two center bolts started, as well as the the two upper bolts that attach the pillars. I cannot get the lower holes to line up. I just love how the shop manual just "presents the windscreen to the body and reattach." What little I have found so far on the forum is that the job is a PITA, but I already know that. I'm hoping for a little more insight from my fellow enthusiasts. The roadster in question is a '72 and the dash is removed, so that is not an issue. Thanks in advance.
 
Not a fun job! While I can't remember the details (probably blocked them!), I remember using ratchet straps to pull the windshield to where the holes lined up. That and the help of a friend to manhandle everything in place.
 
Ok, lets start over. Not quite sure what your doing. Are you trying to attach the windshield to the car, or are you assembling the frame around the glass? Two different jobs, two different techniques, both a royal pain, especially with new rubbers! :rolleyes2: PJ
 
Pretty sure he's trying to mount the assembly to the car. Those lower bolts can be a bear with new pillar seals. Takes a fair amount of manhandling to line everything up.

One other method some have used is to take large C-clamps and attach to the lower part of the legs to compress the seals. Be sure to protect the legs and your paint.
 
This job is made vastly easier if the covers over the mounting legs are removed. Doing so requires drilling out the rivets and popping the covers off - See the attached picture (if I can get it attached). The other thing that greatly helps, is to use a center punch through the screw holes to pull the legs into position.
Cheers, P8060001.jpg
 
Per "SU Dave" I have removed the covers on the front door pillar so I can actually see what's going on. I am waiting on a #4 pozidrive from Grainger to remove a bolt from the lower door hinge so that I can try the "one-man" system recently posted on the MGExp website.
 
Here's how I install a new complete windshield assembly. I lay a piece of heavy semi clear plastic over the scuttle where the new seal will lay. This helps the seal slide on the paint and also protects the paint from scuffing. I spray some silicone on the rubber bottom. Set the windshield in place and lay a narrow ratchet strap over each upper post, hooking one end to the hood/bonnet hole where the hinge goes into, hook the other end to the door upper hinge and gently tighten each strap, one on each side, while working the frame back and forth. It will take a little force on the new rubber to get it down enough to align the holes. I install the front bolt first, then gently work the frame down evenly as not to crack the glass. After the frame is loosely bolted, the plastic will slide out from under the rubber. I never tighten the center bolt over finger tight until everything is in place. Haven't broke a glass yet. PJ
 
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