how to remove window trim

[Licketysplit]

Hi,

I am restoring my 1979 280 zx and I really want to get the back window out so I clean any scale that may be in the channel..what is my best way to remove the rear window trim?

[zbane]

There are two things you will need to do.

Start by having new weatherstripping on hand, or if yours is still in good shape you will want to refresh it with some silicon oil or similar stuff because you don't want it to crack as you remove the trim or glass. If possible, wait to do all this until you have a nice warm day, or heat the rubber with hot water before starting to help keep it flexible.

Starting at the corner, get a slim yet sturdy flat blade and gently maneuver it under the metal to metal seam along the bottom edge (if I recall correctly). Once it is under there a bit (doesn't need to be much, but a bit more is better), twist the lower edge of your flat edge upward. This should get the corner trim loose, though it might take a little convincing. The vertical connection slides off.

Do this at all the corners (I'm not sure which edge "locks" the trim on along the top-some careful exploration will show the way). Once the corners are off, apply your flat edge between the trim and rubber and carefully work it loose.

And for those that follow, please take photos as you go along to post and share, along with any observations, comments, suggestions, etc...

[beandip]

If you are dealing with the original window rubber , the likely hood of saving it is vary slim. The gasket become stiff or hard after this many years. In an effort to save the rubber you could crack the glass. If you use a razor knife and just cut around the glass and peal off the outer lip and metal , then lift out the glass. Installing the glass with a new gasket. I use spray glass cleaner for a lubricant to make things slippery. Put the gasket on the window and the metal trim ,BEFORE installing the glass. I use a 1/4'' dia. cotton rope to rope in the glass. If you have never done this before or seen it done . I recommend having a glass shop do it for you.

Gary