Long time member but usually just read threads. Looking for a little help. Building a 34 3 window that is in the paint shop. It is a Downs body I bought in the late 90’s, yeah I know, I work slow. The painter asked about the windshield and rear window. I have the glass that came with the body but no rubber. It looks like a flat rubber mount windshield like old VW bugs used. Can anybody tell me what I should use or who makes rubber to mount these windows for rubber mounting? Any help greatly appreciated.
I don't know about the Downs body specifically, but I would call my local glass guru. My guy always has what is required for mounting flat glass. Just a few weeks ago he mounted new glass in a gas pump I restored. He has the correct rubbers just lying around. Drop off that glass and frame and let a pro figure it out. That's what I do.
Can't remember system used for the Downs bodies, but if it looks like flush mount, then urethane(glue), and a T molding(as mentioned above S10) will get it installed. Maybe someone with a Downs body, will add some info.
I purchased the first Downs ‘33 Victoria body after Downs bought the mold from Windsor. It was a mess, the body was channeled over the floor pan, the cowl was down about 3/4” from where it should have been, the rear wheel wells were tapered in at the top, and the windshield opening was far from being symmetrical. I made a template of the opening then had it scanned so I could have a stainless faux windshield frame laser cut. When I got the template back it was obvious how far off the opening was side to side. As for installing the glass, automotive glazing tape and T molding was all that was needed. I sold the car unfinished years ago, a few years ago it surfaced near Atlanta finished and for sale. I have no idea where it is today.
Thanks guys, I went to a couple of local windshield shops today and both of them just kinda looked at me like my dog does. I have read about S10 but thought it had to be glued in. I was thinking about just ordering a VW one to try as they are pretty cheap. I also looked at Steele Rubber as a search showed they have some for street rods. I have used their parts and been pretty pleased with their stuff. Will call them tomorrow. I was hoping someone with an early Downs body had been down this trail and knows what will work. Thanks again
Check out this old article and see if it applies to your application. https://www.project33.com/article.cfm?ID=898
Yes. It's a glue in with an S10 T molding. Did several back in the 90's when glue ins were the hot thing.
After talking to and reading a lot about this, as posted above, it is definitely a glue in situation. Thanks guys. Now I’m going back and forth reading about butyl tape and urethane to hold it in. Another problem is the glass fits the hole pretty tight, I’m not sure there is enough room for the S10 rubber. My painter thinks after the w/s is glued in, just fill the small gap with black silicone. I’m leaning toward the butyl tape for the installation, but wanted some feedback. Thanks to all for the help.
About 25 years ago, a buddy and I, finished up someone's languishing 33 Ford sedan project, chopped, that needed the windshield. We had glass shop urethane in the glass, cut to fit opening, and the S10 rubber just fits in the gap between body and glass. It's T-molding. It was a fairly snug fit in that gap, but can't remember details.
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