C2 Side Window Front Channel Replacement

[Dave Kitch (33108)]

I’m replacing the side window glass front channel strips in my 66 roadster. These are the lined strips that are riveted to the bottom of the vent window assembly sheet metal rear strips. I purchased the preformed and predrilled strips in a kit that also included the stainless steel rivets. The preformed strips are not properly preformed and curved to correctly fit inside the rear tack strips. When they are inserted inside the vent window track at the bottom, near where they are riveted, they pop out at the top. They are only held in at the top by the vent widow rear weather strip clips that are somewhat weak and wouldn’t be able to retain the channels at this time. I believe that the channels should fit a little better inside the strips so that they lay inside the tracks with little distortion and bending load.

Can anyone recommend a procedure to work and form the channel strips so that they better fit inside the vent window track? I’m going to use a little longer rivet than was provided which now requires a lot of force to seat the joint.

Regards,
Dave Kitch
33108

[Joe Ciaravino (32899)]

Re: C2 Side Window Front Channel Replacement

Return them and get the preformed type with the proper curve, from a different supplier. It is possible to install your "cheapos", but will require lots of patience. I know, you didn't order "cheapos".....but that's what you got. You'll have to look for them.

Joe

[Bob Rosenblatt (38164)]

Re: C2 Side Window Front Channel Replacement

I agree the liners should fit easily. There is also a screw at the top of the channel which holds the rubber stop to the channel and the vent window assembly. This may help you in putting it together.

[Dave Kitch (33108)]

Re: C2 Side Window Front Channel Replacement

Bob,

Top screw does not influence the front channel replacement.

Dave Kitch

[Joe Ray (1011)]

Re: C2 Side Window Front Channel Replacement

Dave,

You are correct that the top screw does not effect the strip in any way. It just holds the rubber stop in place.

Here's what you do to use what you have and it will look just as good as the more expensive pre-curved strips.

1. Use your old strips and trim if necessary. The top is cut at a slight angle to conform to the angle of the sash.

2. Purchase 3M 08008 Super Weatherstrip Adhesive in the red box. It will be black.

3. Put the Adhesive in the channel groove of the sash and then slip the weatherstrip in the groove.

4. Use twine or string (I use nylon because it stretches tightly) and wrap around the channel every couple of inches. Make this very tight as it must hold the weatherstrip in the groove. You can use a small c-clamp with 3/8 nuts down in the felt if you feel you need the extra holding power.

5. Put in the rivets that came with the weatherstrips.

6. Set these aside for a couple of days until the Adhesive dries throughly.

7. Remove the twine or string and then replace the small strip on the rear of the vent window and bend the tabs down.

8. Finished product is as good as new and saved you some money.

The weatherstrip channels can be purchased at any glass store in most areas of the country. Big savings by purchasing in 6 ft. lengths.

Hope this helps. It's been working for me for the last 30 years.

Regards,

JR