Windshield repair/replacement options

[PRO-7 racer]

Jeff-
When I bought my PRO-7, 85 RX-7 it came with a cracked windshield and the replacement estimate was $100.00 to remove, $100.00 for the windshield itself and $100.00 to install. So I removed the windshield myself and then cleaned up the seating area around the windshield frame. Installed approx 5-6mm thick self adhesive foam onto the windshield seating area. Sticky side only on the side of the windshield seating area. I then made windshield clips. The clips also have the same foam on the area of the clip that touches the windshield. The clips were then attached with thread inserts to the body and screwed into place. This allows you to screw the clips down to your torque values. When using a rivet gun you can possibly crack the new windshield.
Now when I crack a windshield I only have to pay for the windshield and it takes about 15 minutes to remove and reinstall. With this setup I felt the rigiditiy of the car was still there with a full cage but I would not do this on a street car. I have also raced in the rain with no leaks.

Duane

[joeg]

Windshields are consumables in IT--just like tires and brake pads.

Learn how to remove and replace.

Try butyl instead of urethane.

[lateapex911]

Jeff-
When I bought my PRO-7, 85 RX-7 it came with a cracked windshield and the replacement estimate was $100.00 to remove, $100.00 for the windshield itself and $100.00 to install. So I removed the windshield myself and then cleaned up the seating area around the windshield frame. Installed approx 5-6mm thick self adhesive foam onto the windshield seating area. Sticky side only on the side of the windshield seating area. I then made windshield clips. The clips also have the same foam on the area of the clip that touches the windshield. The clips were then attached with thread inserts to the body and screwed into place. This allows you to screw the clips down to your torque values. When using a rivet gun you can possibly crack the new windshield.
Now when I crack a windshield I only have to pay for the windshield and it takes about 15 minutes to remove and reinstall. With this setup I felt the rigiditiy of the car was still there with a full cage but I would not do this on a street car. I have also raced in the rain with no leaks.

Duane

Winner winner chicken dinner. That's exactly what I did when I built my RX-7. Ten years ago. Still going strong.

I did it that way because I was able to install a better cage in the car with the windshield out. I knew the windsheild would take a rock or something someday, and it would happen at a race where quick removal would make life easier, so no sealant. It was pretty easy to do, actually, and it's worked great.

If you can get a windshield for $75, I think you really have no worries. My crew guy drinks more in beer each weekend.

[NBS2005]

Duane,

I like your idea a lot. Can you post pics or send them to me? Thanks!

J

[Z3_GoCar]

Anyone use windshieldstogo.com? Looks like I can save $60-$80 by installing it myself.

[joeg]

Yes...Learn to do it.

The major problem is cutting the old broken one out.

[edison_GTI]

What are you guys doing about disposal of the old windshield?

[joeg]

I fold it into thirds (in a big contractors bag) and dispose of at the curb--usually inside a couple other bags.

Do the folding inside the bag in order to keep down the number of flying shards. Wear welding gloves and a face shield too when doing this.