I have acquired an 81 with rust of windshield frame and significant leaking into floorboards. Can someone give some general inf o on what it will take to fix this (the right way vs, the expedient way)?
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Re: Rusted and leaking 81 window frame
Larry-----
This is a common problem for Corvettes and affects all 63-82 models. To fix it the "right way" is practically impossible at the current time due to the current unavailability of windshield side frame/pillar posts. These parts, which constitute the side portion of the windshield frame, were last available under GM # 14033459-left and 14033460-right. I saw a set of these with header frame and corner pieces for sale at Bloomington last year for $2,000. I recently purchased a set for my collection for a steep price, but considerably less than the Bloomington price. By the way, the set I saw at Bloomington was the ONLY set which I saw there for sale. I did see one other lone right side pillar post, though.
In any event, replacing these pillar posts is a MAJOR job, which I would only recommend be left to a professional experienced with it. Caledonia Clasic Cars of Belding, MI specializes in this work (619-794-5026).
The header frame, originally GM #3936231, and the corner pieces, GM #3936227 and 3926228, are long since GM-discontinued but are being currently reproduced by CSC Reproductions of Rocky River, OH. (440-331-8939). The header frame sells for about $200 and the corner pieces are about $70/each, as I recall. CSC is also planning on reproducing the pillar posts and should have them available soon, if not already.
Another approach to repair, which involves less work, but still should be left to an experienced professional is to obtain a sound windshield frame from a dismantled Corvette possessing one. This frame can be installed and welded into your existing lower pillar posts. Properly done, it works relatively well. Still, it's a lot of work and, by the time you're done, VERY expensive.
Lastly, your frame can be repaired if it's not too bad by removing the "cancerous" metal and welding in new sheet metal of the appropriate gauge. Once again, difficult, and best left to an experienced professional.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: Rusted and leaking 81 window frame
J&D Corvette in Bellflower CA dismantles Corvettes and will have what you need, probably for a reasonable price.
Regards,
- GregComment
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Re: Rusted and leaking 81 window frame
Larry, You could also try Corvette City 303-762-8388, Joe give me there there name and they came through with a lower window cage for my 65. MikeComment
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Re: Rusted and leaking 81 window frame
As Joe pointed out, any way you replace/repair the frame is a MAJOR job. I had to patch extensive rust in my '72 (this was before I knew there were replacement frames available) and unless it's not that bad, I would reccommend replacing the entire frame. Patching it here and there was a nightmare as the rust frequently extends inside the channel around where you have cut out the original damage, which makes it virtually impossible to clean it properly enough to MIG weld without having major problems.
Yes, definitely replace the entire frame if it's real bad and have a professional do the job if you're not qualified. Also, the fact that your car is rusted there could be a sign that it may also be affected in the other usual trouble spots (body mounts, birdcage, radiator support, front frame crossmember, and if I'm not mistaken, I believe the later sharks have metal floor pan inserts which may also be rusted since you have standing water there, but I'm not positive. Maybe someone else would know for sure).
Good Luck,
Bob BoothComment
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