Pilkington/Non OEM Windshield glass or BMW ONLY?

[RC000E]

I have an insurance claim to replace a windshield in my 535. I've read and researched about the glass replacement, for some time. I've found several threads indicating that aftermarket glass has leakage, unless supplemented by urethane, which isn't how it was originally installed. I have to forward the findings and results of this thread to the insurance company, in order to claim supplement on this replacement, otherwise they will only cover the cheapest piece of aftermarket glass there is.

If you have experience with Pilkington/PPG glass not fitting, can you confirm that here, as well as state your conclusion as an E28 enthusiast from this community?

Thank you for your help resolving this claim for me, which has proven a NIGHTMARE. God help you if you need to file a third party claim with a classic car, not fun.

[vinceg101]

I just replaced the Pilkington windshield in my M535i last May with a new BMW replacement. I don't know how long it had been in the car, but it could have been anywhere from 7 to 15 years old.
While the Pilkington fit correctly (pretty well it looked like) and never leaked, it was starting to de-laminate in the lower corners (I can't seem to find a photo showing this at the moment). They set the gasket in with adhesive but set the glass in using just the lockstrips the way the system was designed.

Replacement windshields for E28's are really problematic, especially after-market units. If I were you and have the option, I would pick up a BMW unit somehow (Ivo is coming over with a bunch next month). Even if you have to order it from BMW, it's well worth it to avoid any fitment issues.

Of course the next piece of the puzzle is finding the right installer who is experienced with E28's as well as securing the right parts (i.e. trim, lockstrips, gaskets, etc.).

[johne]

I have no experience with Pilkington. However I did use Safelite and after 3 failed/leaking windshields they installed a factory BMW windshield. No leaks no issues. During that process Safelite wanted to use urethane but I said no. I found out later speaking with an independent installer that urethane does not adhere well to the window gasket. Insist on BMW and find someone that's old enough that worked on these cars when they were originally manufactured. Hope this helps. John

[tn535i]

My 5 has had a Pilkington since I purchased it, maybe not original, but fit and sealed fine with no extra adhesive. It has clouded in the bottom corners and the greenish shade across the top is quite faded, but the car has always been outdoors. I was also told by a old time BMW guy that Pilkington was the 'better' replacement alternative for these cars and may have been OE on some glass for the e30's, but don't think that's true for the 5/6 series. I've also put a Pilkington (used but perfect) in our old e30 and then moved it to our project e30 and never had any trouble with it. Just my limited experience.

[John in VA]

My glass guy tried to fit Pilkington glass but could only get 3 corners in at one time! Ended up with PGW.

Section 51-29 of the factory shop manual mentions "sealing the window with cement between glass & metal frame as well as between rubber frame & body."
https://www.bmwtechinfo.com/repair/main/137en/index.htm

[RC000E]

Well, the current situation is, they ordered a new gasket and lock strip from BMW, but the glass is in the air. Currently they can't locate an installer for Pilkington, so that's out. They said they contacted BMW and, of course, the glass is listed as not available. I've posted in the windshield thread in "eye candy" but the insurance company is covering a rental, and I'm pushing time as it is. I've already clearly stated, that I will not tolerate urethane and caulking this thing to make it seal. It'll seal properly or they'll re-do it, even if there is a war, I've made that clear. A silicone botched install may not leak today, but that's not to say it won't leak later. I'd like as close to a proper/spec install as possible.

I agree that, the installer here is the key to making it work, or not work...and that's what worries me. I'd be more confident in installing it myself, but were I to do that and the glass breaks, or something goes awry, and I'm not covered by the insurance company on it. I've built cars for SEMA, I'm sure I can install this windshield, but like anything the right tools for the job and proper care will get it done.

We'll see....

Thanks for all the comments. I've also submitted some search findings. Thanks for the instructional there also.

[cfisher]

I have had three PPG windshields and every single one leaked. And this was all with brand new gaskets. (Three different cars) On all three, the upper corners don't quite "fit". The aftermarket glass does not push the gasket up into the upper corners ensuring proper seals. After getting a BMW glass on one car, guess what? It doesn't leak a drop. And this is on a car that has the interior totally gutted, so I would know if it did.

I would not accept anything other than a BMW windshield.

cfisher

[ovide]

I have had three PPG windshields and every single one leaked. And this was all with brand new gaskets. (Three different cars) On all three, the upper corners don't quite "fit". The aftermarket glass does not push the gasket up into the upper corners ensuring proper seals. After getting a BMW glass on one car, guess what? It doesn't leak a drop. And this is on a car that has the interior totally gutted, so I would know if it did.

I would not accept anything other than a BMW windshield.

cfisher

So what about the Saint Gobain Sekurit's that are a perfect match and OEM supplier for BMW?

see my tread about the incoming shipments: http://www.mye28.com/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=142621