windshield reinstall - to putty or not?

[steverino66]

Anyone NOT used putty between the seal and metal lip and regretted it?
Previous installation on mine used it, but the metal looks perfect (maybe a little wavy) - opinions: is the putty necessary/good insurance or no?

[64fleetside]

I used 3m automotive bedding & glazing compound #08509. The factory shop manual recommends using a similar product.

[db65]

I used to work in a glass shop that specialized in old cars/trucks. We would always seal between the body and rubber with a bedding and glazing compound. It keeps the water out so that it doesn't leak down the sides of your kick panels inside and also keeps the water from sitting on the metal in the lower corners and rusting out. Being in Washington we get alot of rain also. The only time we wouldn't seal it is if it will never see any rain, ie a show only car. We used a product similar to 3M bedding and glazing compound, usually the paint and body supply houses carry it. You can put it on with a chalking gun around the edge of the rubber before you install the glass. It can be done after but it's a pain, especially on these trucks with the overhang above the w/s. We would start at the bottom about where your white paint ends and go up the side and across the top and down to the same spot on the other side. Usually didn't do the bottom. Thats how I would do it anyway.

[steverino66]

thanks, guys - the goop is on the list!
(if I ever get done sanding/painting…)

[BMERDOC]

Not to jack your thread but...I'm near that stage too and I was wondering if the seal can be reused if I have to pull out the windshield with this sealant on it. Again, sorry for the highjack!

[db65]

You should be able to reuse the seal, the sealant will not harden like silicon does. As long as it is still pliable and not cracking it will be fine.

[steverino66]

I looked up the 3M #08509 (my local NAPA guy has it) - says it's for rubber to BODY seal - so no seal is needed for the GLASS to rubber?

[db65]

I'd try it without, if it leaks you can carefully pull the rubber away from the glass and insert your chalking tip and run a bead along the bottom and up the side then around the top corner, shouldn't need to do the top. Use a razor blade to clean off the excess that seeps out. We always used white gas, coleman fuel works good, to wipe off the rest with an old rag. Once you have it all cleaned up run your razor blade again carefully along the edge to make a nice clean gasket. Once your done it shouldn't look like you've even sealed it up! Then you should just clean up with some glass cleaner, welcome to the world of a clear view!

[steverino66]

thanks, db65 - I'm ready to paint, glass is next.

[LostMy65]

Originally Posted by BMERDOC

Not to jack your thread but...I'm near that stage too and I was wondering if the seal can be reused if I have to pull out the windshield with this sealant on it. Again, sorry for the highjack!

Searching this topic brought me to this thread.
I had the very same question.
Thanks.

Originally Posted by db65

You should be able to reuse the seal, the sealant will not harden like silicon does. As long as it is still pliable and not cracking it will be fine.

Thanks for the answer.