Windshield rubber glazing

[Nelson]

The rubber seal around the windshield on my Mk 2 Sprite is very hard and I would like to replace it. My problem is that I can't figure out how to remove it. The insert rubber strip portion pulled out very easily but I'm not sure how the main rubber strip was put into place. It would be nice to remove it without breaking the glass. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[jim79]

Not sure if this helps but I just replaced the seal around my 79 midget windshield and this is how I did it. I had to take the frame(metal around the glass) apart and then the rubber is a "u shape and simply removes from around the glass.Now for the bummer, the new rubber seal is a pain in the back side to squeeze back in to the metal frame with the glass. I used vasoline on the rubber seal and a mini racheting cargo strap to compress the frame and force the glass/seal in. I couldn't even come close without the vasoiline and the seal would pop out without the cargo strap.While the strap is holding the mousetrap together I put the frame screws back in.I hope this might be of help if your car is similar.?

 

[Nelson]

I was able to take a razor blade and cut the outside of the rubber. This allowed me to push the glass forward and out of the frame. On my Sprite the frame is one piece so it can't be taken apart. I have instructions on installing the new material but I just might wind up taking it to my local glass shop and having them do it for me. I understand it is not an easy DIY project and I still have work to do on the body of the car.

 

[v8mgbal]

Thanks for the info Jim. I am going to be doing this soon and had not thought of using the ratchet straps.