Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Body, interior, paint, chrome, and cosmetic items => Topic started by: racefaith on January 31, 2014, 11:52:22

Title: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: racefaith on January 31, 2014, 11:52:22
Hello. My mostly cosmetic resto is moving slowly along and my tech has asekd me to purchase the rubber windshield gasket so when ready, he can pop the glass back in.

Id like some suggestions as to whatelse I can replace at this point that is considered on/near/part of the windshield (other then the aforementioend rubber seal and glass itself)

Knowing this could range from a "shade tree" restoration to a nuts and bolts, frame off, Im not looking to go crazy.

So some help in what I should really do here that would increase the visual aethestics and would be smart mechanically but again I dont want to go crazy and replace little screws and plates that only will matter to a judge at Pebble Beach. Im not looking to do a concurs resto.

Also, when he pulls the windshield, is the obvious time to pull out the wood trim strips for refinishing?

thanks in advance!!
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: mdsalemi on January 31, 2014, 12:58:01
It is much easier to remove the wood when the windscreen is off…so that should be a consideration.
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: mmizesko on January 31, 2014, 14:38:56
Michael,

Huh, I was advised by my painter and Joe to pull the wood before taking out the windshield.  Since we were refurbing instruments and replacing bulbs with LED's it was timely anyway.

Mike
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: mdsalemi on January 31, 2014, 16:08:25
...pull the wood before taking out the windshield...

The reason for pulling the wood out while the windshield is removed, is that the wooden bows can be lifted straight up. They have protruding screws that come out the bottom, and have been known to either scratch or tear the vinyl or leather w/o a lot of extra care in removal and refitting. Not impossible of course, but that wasn't the question. It's easier to just lift them out and refit when there's no glass there.
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: hkollan on January 31, 2014, 16:43:56
Hello,

While you have the windshield out in addition to going over the wood pieces I would check the chrome moldings around the a-pillar/WS-frame for damage/pitting.  These parts cannot be removed for rechroming with the wienndshield in place.
Also the 4 chrome/aluminum trim pieces that are inserted into the windshield rubber gasket can be replaced at this stage.

Hans


Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: KevinC on January 31, 2014, 16:52:13
I agree with all that's been posted...especially regarding the wood on the top of the dash. Where are you in CT? There are a handful of members in the western Mass area close to the state line around I-91.
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: racefaith on February 03, 2014, 13:07:20
Thanks for the responses. I will have him remove the wood trim but refinish it myself.

I live in Simsbury CT which is about 12 miles west of Hartford. Let me know if you folks get together during the year.
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: rwh on February 05, 2014, 20:08:48
If you plan to refinish the wood trim be careful. The veneer is very thin and can be easily sanded through to the base wood. Don't ask how I know.  By the way, Madera concepts is very good at repairing an owner's previous attempt at veneer restoration - they did wonders on mine.

RH '64 230sl
Title: Re: Suggestions on replacing windshield parts during resto
Post by: KevinC on February 05, 2014, 20:22:15
If you plan to refinish the wood trim be careful. The veneer is very thin and can be easily sanded through to the base wood. Don't ask how I know.  By the way, Madera concepts is very good at repairing an owner's previous attempt at veneer restoration - they did wonders on mine.

RH '64 230sl

Great call. Probably unorthodox for most but I used liquid wood stripper and fine steel wool. No sand paper.