Does any one have a proper way to install the rear window and weather stip on a 51 p.u.? Does the bead lock go on the outside?
Backlight Installation Yes , there's a $5.00 tool you're supposed to use and still it cam be tricky . you install the grommet to the body , then insert the glass then finally you work in the locking stripbeginning at the lower center and going around clockwise , typically the end is too long so stuff it in and trim it off , too tight and it'll grow a gap soon . The shop manual shows this clearly and Chevy Duty sells the cheapo tool .
Painful exercise I would say putting my back windows in was the most painful exercise in redoing the truck. The tool at least for me was worthless. Wound up doing it just as Nate says, using lots of soapy water in a spray bottle and a short flathead screwdriver to open the gap and force in the bead. I had to do about a quarter of an inch at a time. The good news is that once you get it in, the window will never come out unless you pull the bead!
Rear window installation I found that if you cut the end off a toothbrush and sand the end down to a wedge shape it'll make both the glass and bead insertion less painful. Also, if you slip and hit the paint you won't leave any gouges. I agree that the installation tool isn't worth the money and can inflict some major damage to painted surfaces. Patience is the key to getting the back glass and beading installed. Dave BTW....soaking your aching fingers in ice water also helps.
