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The convertible rear window frame is made of steel with an attached tacking form all around.
We urge the convertible restorer to read the restoration tip below concerning the convertible rear windows.
If the steel frame is in perfect condition you can purchase, and attach a new plastic tacking form. However, we strongly recommend that you consider the complete rear window frame with the wood already attached to its metal frame, as a unit ready to apply to the new top.
Any rear window frame and glass may be installed in any new top, regardless of year!
The rear window is suspended in a framework made of steel and either plastic, wood or particleboard. The framework is tacked to the convertible’s top and headliner. The steel frame rusts and changes shape as the car bounces and ages and as the top shrinks. The insert that is part of the framework (the insert holds the staples) cracks or rots. The window stays in place, usually, because the seal is essentially glued in with age. But when the new seal is put on the glass and the old framework re-installed into the top, the distortion and deterioration are often fatal. The rear window will not install properly or will not stay in!.
There are steps that must be taken to prevent this. The procedures, step by step, for doing this job
come with our rear window parts, on request. The instructions should be followed carefully. To save work and to guarantee that the framework has exactly the right geometry
(so that mismatch stresses don’t throw the window back out of the car)
we have a replacement framework. It is steel with a wood insert already attached. It is painted with a rust and rot preventing paint. It is ready to tack in place immediately, thus saving a lot of labor and uncertainty. These frameworks are our parts #MP201 and #MP202 (depending on the year of your car).
If you decide that you will save the old steel frame after you remove it:
sand blast or wire brush it and spray it with metal primer and paint. Make sure you reconfigure it to its original shape. This is crucial! Use the glass as a guide. Glue in the new insert. Test the glass with its seal applied and make absolutely sure it lays right over the insert. Follow our directions, please. Whatever the year of your car, you may install a late model rear frame and glass into a new top. You must buy the frame and glass that match each other. The back of the top will be cut to receive whatever frame you use.
The mid-75 chassis number is 1552012218. This and higher is mid75 and later. Lower chassis number indicates early 1975 or before.
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