67 Hardtop Project Finished, but not quite

[Gerard F.]

Here's a photo (Photo 1) from the Motherlode Roundup parade ( an annual parade and rodeo in Sonora, CA) from this past weekend.



I was last and oldest Corvette of the 9 in our local Corvette group (Motherlode Corvettes). Heard a lot of comments from the crowd, that they saved the best for the last.

But I am not a happy camper about the rear window fit and trim fit, in putting back the original rear window with repro weatherstripping.
First I had problems with the rear window clips, and went through 2 sets, and finally bent the clips correctly like the originals.

Then, I dryfitted the upper window trim and marked the final positions (Photo 2).

But when I installed the window with the new weatherstripping, I just couldn't get the trim to fit properly around the upper corners and to the dry fit match marks. (Photo 3)
I even put a kink in one trying to hand bend the trim to fit and hammer them in. The garage was full of foul language, to say the least.

I think the problem is in the weatherstripping being slightly thicker and harder than the original.

So I gave up for now, but will see if Glassworks can repair my damage and reset my rear window in San Diego at the Convention.

[Don H.]

Re: 67 Hardtop Project Finished, but not quite

Jerry
I understand how what should be really pretty simple job can turn you into knots. These cars seem to have a knack for that, don't they? And these SS window trim pieces are so reasonably priced, aren't they? I think you have put about a month- six weeks into this project now and not sure you accomplished anything if you have to have it redone by GW. I feel your pain, but let me say that your marina blue 7 with old worn paint looks super. I even like your luggage rack. But recommend next time you do a parade, strap an old Louie Vuitton on the rack. Folks will get a kick out of that.
see you in SD !
Don

[Gene M.]

Re: 67 Hardtop Project Finished, but not quite

Jerry,
The rubber w/s under the trim can be "ground down" using a dremel with a grinding wheel. It is hard to see in the photos but I assume you can't get the trim to sit down tight. Right? I used extra clips on each side of the corners to hold them down better. That trim dent can be repaired. Pound out the dent flush to above the virgin outside surface. File down with sand paper starting at 600 going all the way down to 1200. Be sure to use a block so it stays flat. Take your time and go back and "level" as required. Following with black compound on buffer and going to the white. The repair will be invisible never happened and your garage will be save for children's ears again .........!