New windshield install and Shadowline trim (Shifty style lon

[Damon in STL]

I just got done helping the installer put in my new front windshield with shadowline trim front and rear. He got here about 2:45 and left about 4:45. Not a bad install time! He's been doing this for the last 15 years and is quite knowledgeable. He's also recently put in my M3 windshield and my wifes Honda Odessey's windshield. He is also the german car guy for his company.

After reading about all the horror stories with non OEM glass, I decided to talk to him prior to the install. He told me that currently there are two main suppliers of automotive glass (Plinkton and PPG). He basically said that the glass is made to spec and the difference is in the install. He said many of the new guys did not know how to install the older style windshields and try to use the newer method of the "bonded" windshields.

The tricks he used included putting the lock strip on the dash of his van with the defroster on (and the van running) while he setup the gasket and the bottom metal trim on the windshield. He then inserted a rope approximately 1/4" in diameter in the inner slot of the gasket where it contacts the body. Next he placed a bead of sealant (can't remember the name) on the gasket where it comes into contact with the glass. This is similar to what BMW originally used and it never completely solidifies (I pulled a bunch off the old gasket that we re-used....oh, and he said no prob to re-using the gasket as long as it was cleaned and in good shape). He then placed the windshield/gasket/trim assembly into the opening.

He started at one of the botom corners and got the windshield into place and then slowly worked his way around. At this point he used a tool that was about 18" long with a kink in the last couple of inches and a crows foot at the end to move the gasket around on the inside. As he had went completely around the windshield, slowly pulling the rope out as he went, he would periodically tap the windshield into place from the outside. After the windshield was in the body, he used more sealant on the glass side and body side all the way around the gasket.

Next, he inserted the lock strip using a tool that looked like a bottle opener. He took his standard lock strip tool and used his dremel tool to contour it to the BMW style lock strip shape (someone had permanently borrowed the last one he had made). If there is an interest in this tool he said he would make some and sell them if anyone wanted one. Anyway, the lockstip was installed in 5-10 minutes with the top corners taking the most time. Oops forgot, he use plenty of silicone spray to lube it up good before installing. The lube is more for the tool movement.

We next tackled the rear trim similar to how the front was done. It took maybe 20-30 minutes.

Okay I'm tired of typing and need another beer, so, I'm liking the new site and will proof the above text later. If it needs to be edited.....I'll get to it later...

Damon in STL

[Marcus in San Diego]

Wow, I'd hate to have to try to do that myself. Thanks for the report.

-Marcus

[Blue Shadow]

Good Report Peak. Nice to read the correct way to install the windsheild, using the gasket to seal and not the glues of the more modern cars.

[MarkD in NJ]

I'm having my windshield replaced this weekend, also - new BMW gasket and lockstrip. Now I know what to watch out for - GREAT info!

Did your installer say not to drive the car for some period of time? TIA

[Damon in STL]

Did your installer say not to drive the car for some period of time? TIA

Since the e28 isn't currently licensed, I didn't ask him about how soon I could drive it. When he did my M3 (wich is a bonded install) he did say it would be best if you let it sit over night.

Damon in STL