Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

[Keith B.]

Require new windshield for my 66 TF car. Have non-original in now. Would like to hear from current judges which glass manufacturer or supplier makes the best OEM windshield relative to tint bandwidth, date coding, etc. I have contacted OEM glass $ 485 for tint & date coding. Auto City Classic - $ 339, and Pilkington who are - Officially Licensed GM Restoration Parts Distributor for glass products and the GM Soft-Ray logo. Their price $ 340 tint/date. Which glass dealer is closest to OEM ???

Lastly, not having a org windshield I do not have any glass date codes. Maybe a silly question but my Factory side glass for my 66 is both date coded " YJ" - Oct /65. My build date is April 7th, 1966.

Should I have one of the manufacturers use the YJ date code to match the side glass for judging purposes , or go with the more TYPICAL 1-3 months prior to my manufacture date. ie : NA, XA, or LA.

[Terry B.]

Re: Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

Hi Keith,

I've done some research on windshields for C-3's and found there are no windshields that are currently made like the originals. I have a feeling that is the same with C-2's also, you will lose points on any replacement. From tint bandwith, date code font, thickness of glass or the weather stripping used, you will lose about 10 to 15 points from a knowledgeable judge on a replacement windshield.

As for the date codes, NCRS accepts one year on glass from the car's build date.

Good luck with the search.

[Stuart F.]

Re: Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

My understanding is that, besides the tint band width, the actual tint color is not accurate. That has kept me from changing mine in my original 63. Besides, I have a warm place in my heart for every stone ding because with each is a memory of where/when it occurred. Also, in 63, there were very few Vettes that had both windshield and side windows tinted like mine, as I ordered it that way and I want to maintain the color match between them.

Stu Fox

[Stephen L.]

Re: Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

I used AUTOCITY Glass for my replacement glass (all windows). The Codes passed muster at last yrs Nationals. The tint is not per original and was noted.

I believe all the C2 repops are made by the same manufacturer so you won't find a totally correct tint stripe unless you find an original windshield.

If I recall correctly, I believe the shipping box had "Plinkton" on it, which is why the costs are the same at Plinkton and Autocity.

[Dick W.]

Re: Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

I have used OEM Glass 800.283.2122 for over 25 years and have always had good results. The only deduction you will take is the banding.

[Anthony P.]

Re: Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

In January I got glass for my 62 from OEM Glass. They shipped it quickly, and it was perfect. I also used them for other non-corvette classic car projects an have always been happy.

[Keith B.]

Re: Windshield Suppliers and Date Coding

Thanks_ if all things are somewhat equal then I'm not sure why OEM is $ 145.00 more than Pilkington and Auto City Classic...............I'd pay the higher amount if I thought it was better...........any thoughts from someone who has compared OEM to the other two suppliers......