7 replies to this topic

[mikerigg]

I'm replacing the windscreen in my car using a new rubber seal and silver insert. I've got the wider seal which was fitted from 1990 onwards. It doesn't want to fit! Previously I've fitted the w/screen by putting the rubber seal on the car i.e. seating the seal on the metal flange, and then, using lots of diluted washing up liquid, gently pull the seal over the glass with a plastic spatula. Because this new seal is wider, it doesn't seem to work this way - anybody got any sugesstions?

[dklawson]

It sounds like you are trying exactly what I was going to suggest. I was unaware that late model seals are wider.

[Dan]

I have fitted wide seals this way, just try again. Make sure the rubber's nice and new, and also quite warm.
The extra width of the new seal shouldn't be a problem as it runs around the outside of the screen. The section of rubber which actually grips the glass is more or less the same profile as the original.

Don't like the idea of washing up liquid to fit anything to cars, especially rubber trims which will trap the liquid behind them. This soap is REALLY salty and this area of a mini, particularly later shells doesn't need any help to corrode. I use some nice, thick slippery silicon based polish (only if the paint is nice and hard of course) such as Autoglym tyre shine. Autoglym stuff is good as it is in trigger bottles rather than aerosols so you can control it a bit better and get on a good thick coat.

[Woody]

I have been using washing up liquid to fit mini windscreens for 27 years , the guy who taught me was using it before that for many years , the profesional windscreen fitters use washing up liquid (in a nice little pump-spray)
the rubber ALLWAYS goes on the car first (no need for lube here)and then the glasss into the rubber , you will find it much easier to fit the chrome (plastic) filler trim if you use the correct tool (only about £12) and you wont damage the rubber .
I fitted a screen on the side of the road once and had no washing up liquid so i used WD40 to ease it in .
P.S. if you ever want paint work done on your car again in the future DONT use silicon in any way shape or form on your car , this includes polish or sealer and most interior dash treatment that makes the dash slipery .

[mikerigg]

Thanks all - I'll have another go.

[Rob]

Ive used petrolium jelly when ive fitted a couple of screens as I think it creates a good water tight seal. A bit messy though.

[bluebottle]

i know its a cop out, but why not pop around to your local windscreen place and get them to do it, half an hour and you'll be done then!

[cowboy]

woody were can i get the tool from, i used a welding rod shapped and my fingers hurt like buggery afterwrds, window went in OK