Does anyone have detailed instructions on the process for installing the chrome trim around the windscreen of a MK2? I've looked at and tried to follow the instructions in the shop manual, but they are pretty vague.

Thanks.

 

Can I presume you have the screen installed, and the screen seal filler in place ?

The chrome strips, (actually made of brass) cover this filler strip. Back in the day, screen fitters had tools to insert the seals and the trims. Key thing if you try to reproduce the tool for the trims is to make sure they are made of soft material like brass, wood, or copper, or you'll scratch the trims. A bit of rubber grease can help the job. The screen seal and trim set-up is common to a lot of British cars of the 60s and 70s, and screen fitters were well familiar with it. Obviously today all the screens are glued in and totally different techniques are used. The old fitters are either retired or dead, but there may be some 'grey-hairs' still around in screen shops who may be able to help you.

I put in both front and back screens on a Mark 2 in the late 80s, but it's too long ago for me to remember the exact process, sorry !

 

Thanks for the response.

Yes, the windshield is fully installed with the rubber sealing gasket in place.

Do you recall anything about the sequence or"tricks" beyond using rubber grease to make the fitting easier? I've lined it up over the rubber seal and tried to ease the lip over the metal strip with a plastic door trim tool but it doesn't stay put for long as I work along the strip. It seems like I should tape it in place or something to keep it all lined up.

Any recollections or suggestions will be appreciated.

 

From my experience it takes seven magicians and a troop of monkeys to pull this off. I've only once been able to accomplish the task on the rear window of an E Type. fairly flat. I am confident it was done rapidly by two experienced hands at the factory but I've yet to get the trick.

 

I think you need to make up a tool that slips both lips over simultaneously. Also have an assistant to help you.

When you say you have the sealing gasket in place, does this also include the filler strip that fits in a slot in the main gasket ? The chrome strip covers this.

 

I have no idea, and never done it but I am imagining a sort of 2 jawed bicycle tire spoon. Maybe could be done with a pair of old butter knives? Good luck.

 

Apparently the chrome strip sits over the "locking strip", which is installed using a blue point tool # YA208A, available at Snap On for $28.
JP