Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto

[racefaith]

Hello. My mostly cosmetic resto is moving slowly along and my tech has asekd me to purchase the rubber windshield gasket so when ready, he can pop the glass back in.

Id like some suggestions as to whatelse I can replace at this point that is considered on/near/part of the windshield (other then the aforementioend rubber seal and glass itself)

Knowing this could range from a "shade tree" restoration to a nuts and bolts, frame off, Im not looking to go crazy.

So some help in what I should really do here that would increase the visual aethestics and would be smart mechanically but again I dont want to go crazy and replace little screws and plates that only will matter to a judge at Pebble Beach. Im not looking to do a concurs resto.

Also, when he pulls the windshield, is the obvious time to pull out the wood trim strips for refinishing?

thanks in advance!!

[mdsalemi]

It is much easier to remove the wood when the windscreen is off…so that should be a consideration.

[mmizesko]

Michael,

Huh, I was advised by my painter and Joe to pull the wood before taking out the windshield.  Since we were refurbing instruments and replacing bulbs with LED's it was timely anyway.

Mike

[mdsalemi]

...pull the wood before taking out the windshield...

The reason for pulling the wood out while the windshield is removed, is that the wooden bows can be lifted straight up. They have protruding screws that come out the bottom, and have been known to either scratch or tear the vinyl or leather w/o a lot of extra care in removal and refitting. Not impossible of course, but that wasn't the question. It's easier to just lift them out and refit when there's no glass there.

[hkollan]

Hello,

While you have the windshield out in addition to going over the wood pieces I would check the chrome moldings around the a-pillar/WS-frame for damage/pitting.  These parts cannot be removed for rechroming with the wienndshield in place.
Also the 4 chrome/aluminum trim pieces that are inserted into the windshield rubber gasket can be replaced at this stage.

Hans

[KevinC]

I agree with all that's been posted...especially regarding the wood on the top of the dash. Where are you in CT? There are a handful of members in the western Mass area close to the state line around I-91.

[racefaith]

Thanks for the responses. I will have him remove the wood trim but refinish it myself.

I live in Simsbury CT which is about 12 miles west of Hartford. Let me know if you folks get together during the year.

[rwh]

If you plan to refinish the wood trim be careful. The veneer is very thin and can be easily sanded through to the base wood. Don't ask how I know.  By the way, Madera concepts is very good at repairing an owner's previous attempt at veneer restoration - they did wonders on mine.

RH '64 230sl

[KevinC]

If you plan to refinish the wood trim be careful. The veneer is very thin and can be easily sanded through to the base wood. Don't ask how I know.  By the way, Madera concepts is very good at repairing an owner's previous attempt at veneer restoration - they did wonders on mine.

RH '64 230sl

Great call. Probably unorthodox for most but I used liquid wood stripper and fine steel wool. No sand paper.