ERA 289 FIA Windshield Repair

[427 Street]

Well, when I bought my car from F40 Motorsports, there was a SAAC sticker on the top edge of the windshield....and, it was very off-center which I thought was odd. When I peeled it off, there was a stone/starburst crack there. I had it fixed the next day with a mobile unit. They said it was strong as ever.

My mechanic took it for a test ride yesterday. The glass then split from top to bottom...starting at the starburst.

Question: Can anyone, like Safelite, replace the glass, or do I have to order it from ERA, Finish Line, etc?

Thanks.

[strictlypersonl]

It's not that hard to replace a windshield, but it certainly helps to have done it before. The penalty of a mistake is another broken windshield. That can even happen if one of the screws is switched places or is too long. Frankly, I wouldn't trust Safelite unless they have someone who has done it before.

[Dwight]

I ordered a windshield (years ago) and had a local auto glass shop to use mastic instead of the rubber piece supplied with the glass to mount the glass to the windshield frame.

I then took the frame back to my buddies garage and installed it onto the upright frames. On the last screw it cracked the top edge of the glass. Just the inter layer on glass. I think they mounted the glass just a very small amount to the right. Making that one screw about one thread to long.
Cut the screw down and installed it.

Covered the crack with an small American Flag decal.

6 or 8 years later it's still there.

I know every time he drives his Cobra he thinks about the crack. Sorry Mike.

[Grubby]

I did mine. It was a really easy job. Take your time and it can be done in 1 hour.

It is easier than putting a windshield in a traditional type car.

Buy the glass from ERA or others and then I would gladly walk you thru it. Be sure to get the sealant tape/ribbon when you get the glass.

FYI - I had never attempted a windshield change in a car like this before. I have a good friend that used to be in the car windshield business and he encouraged me to try it.

John

[Karl Bebout]

Easy-Peazy. You might consider going with plastic. I bought a piece of hardened Lexan and cut out my own for about $100. Use your old glass for a pattern and cut the plastic with a ban or table saw. (I tried a jig saw and it just made the plastic melt back together). If you use windshield wipers, disregard and a little more care is needed on Lexan when cleaning. Very mild soapy water followed by plain water and micro fiber cloths do the trick without leaving swirls and tiny scratches.

I have seen "polyglass" windshields advertised that are suitable for using wipers and normal cleaning. That's what I'll go with on my 289 car, when the time comes. My 2¢

[427 Street]

Thanks all...I called Peter today and ordered a new one. My mechanic wants to help me with it. I am a little nervous. Grubby...if the offer stands, you can PM me your number. Fingers crossed.

Thanks...

ps...I do like the idea of a plastic windshield...especially in a comp car. It would give it a cool look.

[Karl Bebout]

427, the plastic windshield I was referring to was full sized, not the nifty little "motorcycle faring" type that was used by some race cars.

[Grubby]

[quote=427 Street;1393565] Grubby...if the offer stands, you can PM me your number. Fingers crossed.

PM sent and the offer is open. The job is truly no more difficult than a tune up on your FE.

John

[Karl Bebout]

Be sure your screw heads are in good shape. They are probably 10-32 so nothing special. I'd use a drop of medium strength Locktite rather than give them that "last quarter turn" just to avoid putting a crack in your new, expensive glass.

[427 Street]

Job finished today....so far so good. Thank you for everyone's concern and assistance.

Nick