NEED HELP ! An easy way to install rear corner glass . also i am using chrome lock beads. I got the lock bead tool from Classic, but does not seem to work well with the chrome lock bead. I am restoring a 51 chev 5 window. Thanks.
Unless you have someone to help you, this is much easier done with the center rear window out. That way you can have one hand inside holding the glass and seal in place while you push the lock bead into place. Like you, I didn't have much luck with the tool, so I made one of my own. Took a 8-10" piece of 3/8" dowel rod, put one end into a pencil sharpener, "sharpened" to a dull point, and used that to work the bead into the channel. The main thing is to use lots of lubricant and to avoid stretching the bead as you install it. Hope this helps!
corner window install Likewise about the "installation tool"...it just doesn't work and was a waste of money. I wound up taking a nylon toothbrush, ground a wedge angle in the end and worked the bead into it's groove inch by inch. Being quite honest...it was one of the most miserable things I did during the whole restoration and my fingers were sore for a week. However, it really looks great! Dave
Thoser are easy. Use the tool with the handle leading. Get the bead started, oil or armor all the groove, and use a wide flat blade screw driver to coax any uncooperative spots. at the end, cut it a little long and cram it in there, to combat shrinkage later. As you are feeding it in, try not to pull on it and stretch it, otherwise it will shrink back in time. A little dab of super glue will help to avoid this also.
Thanks guys for the input ! Try as I might I could not use the tool without making marks on the chrome. I did not have any 3/8 dowel stock in my shop , but I did have a carpenters pencil (new unsharpend) it worked fine for opening the slot. Go-jo hand soap works great as a lube. I found that if you start at bottom center, open the slot and insert the bead on an angle you can then push it in with a small flat screw driver (about an inch at a time) it is tedious but worth it. ( no marks on the chrome and does not stretch it ). Super glue on the ends is a good idea. Thanks again.
