67 coupe windshield molding, good place to buy one that fits.

[Domenic T.]

I'm getting close to finishing my frame up on my 67 coupe. My windshield molding is not in good shape and 2/3rds needs to be replaced.
Do the repo moldings fit? I know how hard they are to install and do not want a problem with a bad repo.
Any suggestions, I get a lot from LIC and wonder if there is any purchase experience here in our forum?

Dom

[Paul S.]

Re: 67 coupe windshield molding, good place to buy one that fits.

Coupe windshield moldings are a b-i-t-c-h to get to fit . If i were you i would try and find used ones ( un buffed) . Sometimes guys can screw them up buffing them. Get the moldings, and test fit them prior to painting the car . I always install the windshield and back glass , base coat around the glass and install the moldings before i final paint. I know thats not how the general did it but it keeps from having to spot in new paint when you chip it trying to get the moldings snapped in place .

[Domenic T.]

Re: 67 coupe windshield molding, good place to buy one that fits.

Paul,
Thanks, I know what you are talking about, the installation. I found a way to help matters while installing. I use silicone gelling on the clips and molding. I had a different approach and no way to change it as the only thing installed is the air conditioning/ heater box. Paint is on and the windshield will be easier with the dash out. I have the tools and buffer to work the trim over but know it will take mega time and the chance of it being perfect is slim.
Are you saying that the repo trim won't fit properly? I installed the trim on my coupe in 71 but there was NO way to remove trim as the rubber was rock hard and it removed like egg shell. Thought I would loose the windshield but chipped the rubber 1/4" at a time. The trim was absolutely stuck at each clip as the rubber was rock hard and that took it's toll when removing. LIC has the trim pieces I need and if they fit it is not cost effective to do repairs on the old. My worry is, do they fit. I plan to pre- fit as I did Ion the back window, different and much easier. Took about 15 min after the buffing was finished. One piece is about $ 140 and the other $ 115!! Will they match? Are they like the originals? LIC is very short when asking questions!!

Dom

[Domenic T.]

Re: 67 coupe windshield molding, good place to buy one that fits.

Paul.
I made a 180, took your advice and will tool up and fix my originals. After all, not much is cost effective on a vette. I will take my own advice also," why invite other trouble in". If it doesn't come out perfect then I only have myself to blame. PATIENCE!!

DOM

[Stewart L.]

Re: 67 coupe windshield molding, good place to buy one that fits.

No doubt, the coupe windshield moldings are tough. I would definitely stick with originals. Get the good clips from LICS and pre fit the moldings adjusting the clip location as necessary and. The problem is the reproduction weatherstrips are a bit fatter than the originals so when you go to install the moulding after the windshield is in, the fatter weatherstrip will cause the moulding to "tilt" a bit and not catch the clip properly. I have put either the upper moulding or lower part of the lwr/side mouldings on first then slid the windshield in. (using liquid soap for lube) Having the dash out will help.
Stewart

[Domenic T.]

Re: 67 coupe windshield molding, good place to buy one that fits.

Stewart,
Leaving the dash out was my goal for the windshield installation. I started working on my original trim and after making special simple tooling, it' looking good.
When I installed the trim on the rear window it was a snap as I measured and installed the trim where the overlap was even.
I decided to lube the clips and trim and found that the trim would slide if needed. Had to use a block of hard wood but sticking to the markings I made on the tape, it went fast.
I installed the trim on this car back in 71, and even with GM parts it was at best rough. The GM rubber around the window turned to rock and the trim was impossible to remove without damage. I thought I would loose the windshield as it I had to slide a thin scraper between the rubber and windshield then cut & chip the hardened rubber away a little at a time. I will use the lube on the clips and trim when installing the trim this time.

Dom