Windshield Installation Help

[Michael Buonaccorso]

Hi Everyone:

First post here! I have a 64 Fleetwood and the windshield was leaking. I purchased a new gasket but have been having trouble with performing a leak-free install. I've "installed" the windshield three times now, but haven't been able to stop all of the leaks. Water is managing to get between the rubber channel and the pinch seam on the body, and then eventually drip inside the car. 

For the install, I followed the techniques in this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWdSSa1Mzhs&t=458s, including using the flowable Butyl that was recommended (CRL) and strip caulk in the inside channel. However, I can't seem to stop the leaking through this channel, no matter how much butyl I put in there. I'm going to attempt a 4th install tomorrow, my thought is that if I can put butyl directly inside the channel before the install that is being roped in (in addition to the stip caulk), perhaps it will finally seal up. 

I wanted to see if anyone has experience with this and can save me some time. Maybe Butyl is not the correct sealant to use?  

Thanks a lot!

Mike

[Jason Edge]

Mike, I cannot help you with your DIY install, but will just say when I needed to replace my windshield I took the lazy approach. I had ordered the new rubber seal from Steele Rubber, and called a local reputable auto window company and told them to be sure to send someone that knew how to install old school type windows from the 60's. They sent a relatively young guy (early mid 30's) but he knew his stuff. I asked what type of sealant/caulk they used and he gave me about a half a bottle, but threw it out a few years back as it had hardened. The number of glass companies that have employees experienced with installing this type of glass is surely dwindling but they are still out there. I admire you for installing your own, but we all have to pick and choose our battles. This is one area I caved in and let a pro do it. It has probably been 12 or so years and no leaks. 
Maybe others can give better expert advice. Just sharing my lazy but effective approach. 

[Kurt]

Ah yes, the windshield install: one of my least favorite experiences on my car. I paid an auto glass place to do it. After bringing it back to them 3 times to try to make it leak-free, I just wound up with damaged molding to boot. I decided to cut my losses and do it myself. I don't know anything about Butyl. What worked for me is 3M Bedding & Glazing Compound.I think I reinstalled the windshield 2 or 3 times before finding the right sealant. This stuff does not cure, it remains in a clay/tar consistency. As you're aware by now, it is a very messy job, be sure to cover your interior

[Michael Buonaccorso]

Thanks everyone for the input. Definitely regretting not paying someone to do this but now that I’m started I’m not gonna quit. The stuff that Kurt describes seems like a similar consistency to the stuff I’m using now so it seems like I’m at least on a viable path towards success. Guess it’s just a matter of perseverance at this point!

[3ft7bqmb7dryo]

You will need to add sealant to the frame and the seal between the glass and gasket. The new windshields are thinner than the originals.