Windshield trim install

[David W]

I am completing the restoration of my 72S “RS” look. I have installed the front windshield but am having a very difficult time installing the “appearance trim” that goes around the window (two pieces). It is made of Aluminum and has a small lip on the underside to latch into the rubber trim. I have tried to hammer it on (with a rubber mallet) but the trim just bounces off the rubber. Any tricks on installing this trim?

Regards, David

[CarreraS2]

Do a search.

In a nutshell, you have to install the trim piece with the windshield out of the car. You absolutely CANNOT get the trim pieces in if the windshield is in the car.

When you remove it and try to assemble it, and have difficulties still, it is because you have bent up the trim pieces by hammering on them.

You'll need to try to straighten them out the best you can.

[CHILI]

I goes in before you install the window. Sorry to be the one that breaks the bad news, but you will need to remove the window from the car, install the trim then re-install the window.

[CHILI]

Ahh, Brian beat me to it. The search will tell you all of the tricks. Rope, silicone, etc.

[David W]

Bummer, thanks guys, I did this in about 1990 on my 72E, I guess old age is creeping up on me, I forgot!

I assume I will need to do the same on my rear targa glass?

Regards, David

[onewhippedpuppy]

Run away, run away! I was unfortunate enough to do this on my T rear window several weeks ago, PO told me to simply pry the chrome trim off of the window to remove it. NOT a good idea. After I got wise to the fact that something was wrong, after multiple attempts including the ever handy rubber hammer, I retreated to Pelican. Help! Rear window seal I bent my trim beyond the point of no return, but the car is my daily driver, so I ended up installing the rubber on the window, and then crimping the trim into the rubber with a pair of channel-locks. It looks like hell, but it's in, and now the window won't blow out. I need to replace my headliner sometime soon, another fun project, so when I do that I'll have to spring for $150 of new window trim, that's a pretty steep learning curve. Reportedly Targa rear windows are the worst, and very prone to breaking, if you can afford it, just pay someone, make them suffer.

[ZOA NOM]

Count me in as a member of the club. I removed one half of the trim on my rear window before checking the message board. I did come up with a good temporary solution while I wait for the rest of the parts to come. I didn't want to drive it without the trim in the groove to lock the window in, so I picked up some of the rubber strip used to hold a screen in a window (thickest diameter) and pressed it into the groove. It fits snugly enough to spread the groove, locking the window, and it actually doesn't look half bad. (No, I'm not actually considering leaving it.) My mechanic recommended I get the European window seal, which eliminates the silly aluminum trim, and looks a lot cleaner.

[bob tilton]

i decided to go trimless but have to admit i didn't know about how the trim was suppose to go in with the seal. don't plan on installing trim.

[tangerine911e]

me too. trimless for 5 plus years. not by choice but didn't have the trim at the time. will get around to it soon i hope!



Ash

[ZOA NOM]

Wait a minute... You guys are trimless? Do you mean you have a rubber seal without a groove for the trim? Or do you have a groove, but no trim to lock the window in? I think the trim is a functional piece required for the window to stay in place. If the trim isn't locked in, the window may just pop out on you at just the wrong time.

Here's a pic of the lower right corner of my rear window and the "screen window" trim piece in the groove.

[bob tilton]

ash,
i'd like to see more picsof your car...please .

[Raynald]

Hello i restaure my 911 and i don't have trim for it...i bought a rubber trim and i install it very easy job to do and same look
i wll post pics !

[Raynald]

This is a part of the rubber trim, now i change all for the chrome alu. but when it was black it was very nice...
if some of you want my old black rubber front and rear it is available
you can see in my link the black front look...

[Raynald]

And when i install my new chrome trim i have no choice to removed the windshield and install the chrome in the rubber and after reinstall all the windshields rubber and trim together same for the rear glass...
Ray

[tangerine911e]

Bob,

A couple of pics in this thread. BTW love your car. Classic look

Wheels on at last!

Car still has a fair way to go. Lightweight interior is next . More pics once I get at back from the shop (and a decent camera!!).


Ash

[onewhippedpuppy]

Zonas, that's just what I would have done, if I were only smart. Sure beats forcing in old shot chrome trim.

[ZOA NOM]

It was actually a breeze to install. If I could find a smooth piece without the ridges, I might consider leaving it. I'm not at all interested in the whole window removal thing.

[bob tilton]

ash - what a great looking car! lowered and raked just right. love when the classics take on an agressive look and retain original styling. i have become a big fan of the warmer period colors (oranges, yellows) that really date the car. i hope to see that car someday in person. are you done with the suspension?

[bob tilton]

oops...just read your profile. don't think i'll be seeing that one in person. well just keep us informed with plenty of photos.

[David W]

Wow, this is a great forum. I actually thought of paying a pro to do this, but they don't gurantee it against (them ) breaking the window! I have a new OEM German windshield I pursched (about 10 years ago). I shutter at the cost of one now.

Anyway, I plan to remove the windshield and install the trim, and start over!

It's amazing, the engine install, etc, was much easier! I need to stick to turning wrenches!

Thanks Again!!!!! David