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Windshield frame weld-in insert?

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Old Mar 12, 2018 | 06:17 PM
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Windshield frame weld-in insert?

Is there such a thing? I discovered some pretty rough holes in the windshield frame that were filled in with Bondo by the previous owner...
any other ideas on an easy way to repair this?
 
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Old Mar 12, 2018 | 06:49 PM
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my 51 M3 has that rot on lower rear window, Tractor Bill from texas had a spare cab, he cut out a perfect pc for me, perhaps you could find somebody to do that for you?
spare cab ,craigslist???
good luck!
greg
 
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Old Mar 12, 2018 | 08:15 PM
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There are some intricate curves that involve the opening that if not correct, the windshield won't seal correctly. The best way to fix that is with donor parts to weld in place. I'll check my stock but I think I'm out. Hopefully someone has a bad cab with a good windshield opening they can set you up with.
 
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Old Mar 12, 2018 | 11:04 PM
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Originally Posted by 52 Merc
There are some intricate curves that involve the opening that if not correct, the windshield won't seal correctly. The best way to fix that is with donor parts to weld in place. I'll check my stock but I think I'm out. Hopefully someone has a bad cab with a good windshield opening they can set you up with.
That would be great! Let me know what you have, otherwise I'll look through CL. I did find a solid 1951 cab, it's all in one piece and has vin plates though. I'd hate to cut that up...
 
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Old Mar 13, 2018 | 08:48 AM
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I have taken a few workshops with Ron Covell and from that experience I have learned that it is possible to do what once seemed impossible with metal. If you are interested in developing the skills necessary to fabricate metal repair sections like you need for this windshield, take a look at Ron's video on hammerforming. I was amazed at what could be accomplished with no more than a wood buck and a hammer and dollies. If that doesn't work for you then there is always the hot rod/custom body shop route. Not sure what part of the world you are in but shops are located all over and there is sure to be one nearby. Good luck...
 
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Old Mar 13, 2018 | 08:55 AM
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Thanks for all the replies. Fortunately I can weld, so I'm going to try my hand at making these radius curves with an Eastwood shrinker/stretcher jaw. The tool isn't that expensive considering what it might cost at a proper shop...
 
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Old Mar 13, 2018 | 11:43 AM
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Originally Posted by Fiveflat
Is there such a thing? I discovered some pretty rough holes in the windshield frame that were filled in with Bondo by the previous owner...
any other ideas on an easy way to repair this?
Wow, that is a nasty surprise. Where are you located? You might want to add you location to your profile. I have a cab that has a solid frame.
 
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Old Mar 13, 2018 | 12:08 PM
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Originally Posted by petemcl
Wow, that is a nasty surprise. Where are you located? You might want to add you location to your profile. I have a cab that has a solid frame.
I'm in northern California, Sacramento area.
 
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Old Mar 13, 2018 | 12:25 PM
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Harbor freight had a shrinker/stretcher in stock so I snatched it up.
practice bend worked out pretty well. Wish I had a shear so didn't have to cut it with an angle grinder...
 
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Old Mar 13, 2018 | 04:48 PM
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There are quite a few high end rod builders in your area around Rockville. I bet you could find a sheetmetal shop that would shear off some strips for you cheap. I live near Direct Sheetmetal here in El Cajon and get a lot of metal there cut to dimension.
 
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Old Mar 14, 2018 | 03:25 PM
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We had to do both sidesandtop on ours .we did front and back as 2 pieces ano plug welded together. You can use 2 -18 gauge for this or 1 16 gauges
 
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Old Mar 14, 2018 | 04:12 PM
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That piece you made looks good! I'll bet you can fix it yourself. I'll be watching as I have a 70 Olds Vista Cruiser that needs extensive repair around the vista windows.
 
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Old Mar 14, 2018 | 04:13 PM
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Top strip rotted out.


Bottom corner holes in both sides.


Rough but taking shape.


Water collects here


Top finished


This is the outcome
 
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Old Mar 14, 2018 | 04:15 PM
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Top strip rotted out.


Bottom corner holes in both sides.


Rough but taking shape.


Water collects here


Top finished


This is the outcome
 
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Old Mar 15, 2018 | 10:26 AM
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I apologize for the double post and lenth of my post . I hope it helps someone.
 
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