69 Removable Rear Window - Help

[Brad H.]

Guys,
I have come to the last portion of restoring my 69 interior which for me is the rear window. I know this is bound to be a stupid question, but I have not come across any threads dealing with it - what is the frame made of? It must be aluminum, but it appears to be plated. My frame is in fair condition, but it shows some age and scratches. Polishing does nothing. Is this thing chromed over aluminum? Anyone had success taking it apart to change/restore the glass and seal? What's the best way to restore the frame?
I appreciate any help with this.
Thanks in advance,
Brad

[Chuck S.]

Re: 69 Removable Rear Window - Help

As I recall, the frame is a high strength aluminum finished by anodizing.

I believe the bottom portion of the frame is screwed to the upper portion with chrome screws to make the glass replaceable. Removing an original dated rear window will have same risk of breakage as removing an original windshield.

The anodized finish will have to be done by a professional shop, and finding one that's reliable is just as difficult for rear window frame or rocker moldings.

[Brad H.]

Re: 69 Removable Rear Window - Help

Thanks Chuck,
I did notice the screws to pull the frame apart and it really is going to be difficult to do. The finish on the frame is has a shine like polished aluminum or almost chrome. I've never seen anodizing that shiny before.
Appreciate the info,
Brad

[Chuck S.]

Re: 69 Removable Rear Window - Help

Thanks Chuck,
I did notice the screws to pull the frame apart and it really is going to be difficult to do. The finish on the frame is has a shine like polished aluminum or almost chrome. I've never seen anodizing that shiny before.
Appreciate the info,
Brad

Anodizing is my best guess. A plater could confirm.

As I recall, the finish is not shiny enough to be polished chrome, but it appears hard and wear resistant. I suppose it could be what's known as "flash" chrome. Anodizing is a common finish for aluminum, and is used to provide a very tough bright surface on parts used in punishing environments (like rocker moldings).

Oxidation would soon dull polished aluminum without a clear coat; even with clear protection, a polished aluminum frame would be soft, showing wear and abuse easily.