73 Coupe: Converting Rear Fixed Glass to Removable Glass

[Richard M.]

A buddy and I converted his 73 rear window to the removable type. Remember I'm a c1/c2 guy with limited c3 knowledge, but learning. Came out very nice. His favorite year is the 73 and loves t-tops and open rear window. This was part of a body on restoration which has come out great.

We got a nice CRC weatherstrip and all associated pieces and he installed everything. Along with the ws I ordered the 68-72 rear window ws screw kit for it but cannot figure out where they go. 4 small black screws in the pkg. Appears to be 2 dimples in the lower corners of the ws. Seems odd there's no metal reinforcement on the ws for screws.

Do we really need the 4 screws?

Thanks,
Rich

[Chuck S.]

Re: 73 Coupe: Converting Rear Fixed Glass to Removable Glass

A buddy and I converted his 73 rear window to the removable type...We got a nice CRC weatherstrip and all associated pieces and he installed everything. Along with the ws I ordered the 68-72 rear window ws screw kit for it but cannot figure out where they go. 4 small black screws in the pkg. Appears to be 2 dimples in the lower corners of the ws. Seems odd there's no metal reinforcement on the ws for screws...Do we really need the 4 screws?

The 70 AIM doesn't show any screws being used, only adhesive.

As I recall, the rear window weatherstrip has to be stretched slightly to fit the hole...it's not an easy fit. The screws may be included to address complaints of those having trouble with the installation, but it really won't help because weatherstrip adhesive sticks on contact...you either have it positioned properly to start or you're SOL.

I found that removal of my rear window (with the T-tops off) added little to the driving experience except to change the air flow pattern in the cockpit to increase turbulence. Removal of the T-tops alone, on the other hand, does get you 30% of the way to the "open" convertible feel. Knowing that, I probably wouldn't bother with the conversion, but that's my opinion.

[Alan S.]

Re: 73 Coupe: Converting Rear Fixed Glass to Removable Glass

Hi Rich,
On my 71 the weather strip has a flat tab at each upper corner. The screws are located at that point, 2 per tab. They just mount through the rubber into the fiberglass itself. When the halo trim is back on you can no longer see the screws' heads.
Regards,
Alan

[Roger S.]

Re: 73 Coupe: Converting Rear Fixed Glass to Removable Glass

I have added the removable rear window to 2 73's and have never used the ws screws. I just glued the ws to the window opening and used the window to hold the ws in place while it cured.

I really enjoy the rear window out. The air flow is thru the interior instead around the interior.

Roger