Back Window Glass: Service and Repair
REAR WINDOW GLASSSpecial Tool(s):
SPECIAL TOOL(S)
REMOVAL
NOTE: For removal and installation of the convertible top rear window glass, refer to Convertible Top Assembly.
1. Remove the removable top from the vehicle.
2. Remove the parts in the order indicated in the illustration and table.
Item 4: Headliner Removal Note
1. Position the headliner aside, to access the area around rear window glass.
Item 5: Rear Window Glass Removal Note
1. Disconnect the 2 heated grid electrical connectors.
2. CAUTION: Care must be used to avoid scratching the removable top.
NOTE: Lubricate the existing urethane adhesive with water to aid the special tool while cutting.
Using the special tool, starting at the top center of the rear window glass, cut the urethane adhesive away from the glass and work down the sides.
3. Remove the rear window glass.
4. Using a soft brush or vacuum, remove dirt and foreign material from the adhesive area.
INSTALLATION
1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
Item 5: Rear Window Glass Installation Note
1. CAUTION: After installing glass, the vehicle should not be driven until the urethane adhesive has cured. The curing time at temperatures above 13°C (55°F) and relative humidity above 50%, is 12-24 hours (decreasing at higher temperatures and lower humidities). Inadequate curing of the urethane adhesive may adversely affect the strength of the urethane adhesive bond. (Refer to the Essex driveaway chart for cure times as the temperature may vary.)
Dry fit the rear window glass to the existing urethane bed on the adhesive area. Align the rear window glass in the opening for uniform fit.
2. Use tape or non-permanent marking pencil to make alignment marks on the rear window glass and the body to aid in the installation alignment of the rear window.
3. After alignment, remove the rear window glass from the vehicle and place on a stable work surface.
4. CAUTION: Care must be taken to avoid scratching the adhesive area.
Trim the remaining urethane adhesive on the adhesive area. The urethane surface should be smooth and free of cuts and contamination after trimming. Avoid touching the urethane surface after preparation.
5. Using the wool applicator, apply urethane adhesive primer, to any exposed material on the urethaned area. Allow 6 to 10 minutes to dry.
6. If reinstalling the original rear window glass, trim the remaining urethane adhesive from the rear window glass surface, leaving a thin layer for adhering to the new urethane bead.
7. Clean the inside of the glass surface with an alcohol-free cleaner to make sure the ceramic-coated area is clean.
8. NOTE: If the molding is already on the rear window glass, proceed to the next step.
Align the "V" notch in the ceramic paint and rear window glass center. Fully seat the rear window glass outside molding along the top edge of the rear window glass and along the sides and bottom edges of the rear window glass.
9. CAUTION: Wipe off the urethane glass prep immediately after each application because it flash dries. Apply with deliberate strokes, making sure not to overlap the applied area.
If installing a new rear window glass, apply urethane glass prep, twice around the glass surface to be prepped.
10. Apply urethane glass primer, in the same area as in the previous step. Allow five minutes to dry.
11. Cut the urethane applicator tip to specification.
12. Apply a bead of urethane adhesive to the urethaned area.
13. NOTE: The windshield glass must be positioned within 10 minutes of applying the urethane adhesive.
Install the rear window glass on the vehicle, aligning it with marks made previously.
14. Check the rear window installation for air or water leaks through the urethane bead.
15. Place two strips of tape onto the rear window glass and secure it to the removable top. This will help avoid misalignment while the urethane cures.
16. Connect the two heated grid electrical connectors.