NOS windshield rubber seal?

[jcfoote60]

I talked to a guy that has been installing windshields for 28 years and owns his own auto glass shop here and he told me that aftermarket window rubber is crap for our trucks. Then went on to say the repop windshields we buy today are thinner glass than original.

So here's the deal. I have an original un-chipped green glass windshield I would like to install but this guy said the aftermarket rubber seal will not work due to the the thickness of the glass, says the new rubber is designed for teh new thinner repop glass. So here's my question, does anyone know of a place that sells NOS GM windshield rubbber seals?

[suville]

Chances are you wont find one and unless its been kept in a cool dark environment it will be harder than when new all those many years ago. You didnt say if you had a gasket or not, if you dont I would recommend Soft seal or Steele if you call and discuss this with them they should be able to clarify this , true the glass is thinner and not as hard (no lead) but Ive installed several while in Washington state the rainy state with no problems. I personally dont like any rubber repop stuff unless its Softseal or Steele Rubber products.

[jcfoote60]

Good points. I actually did buy a new seal and stainless trim from LMC on a big order almost 2 years ago anticipating this project. Do you know what brand seal LMC sells? Also the glass guy here groaned when I told him about the stainless. He said polish, fix or do whatever because the aftermarket stuff is so flimsy..

[suville]

Most repop rubber is import stuff, I have used them but they dont compare to the US made stuff. Once you see or feel the difference you'll never use the cheeper ones. And our Burbs have lots of rubber gaskets and it aint cheep, I know!

[jcfoote60]

Hey thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it, you are validating what the guy here is telling me. the reason why the forum is so cool!! Thanks again,

Jim

[Huck]

Jim, suville is right on with his info. LMC rubber is basically crap. Some of our board vendors sell windshield rubber with a lifetime warranty but I have no personal experience with it. The new glass is thinner, comes from Mexico and costs the glass companies around $50. wholesale. If you have a glass guy who will put in a new windshield with rubber and guarantee the deal---depending on price---might be the best solution. The rubber to the glass is not the big deal-(easy to seal post install)--the rubber to the windshield frame is the bigger problem and harder to seal after the fact.