86Coupe

I just got a new stone chip that's driving me nuts. I'm interested in knowing how much it's going to cost to replace the windshield and what's involved.

I remember my mechanic saying that most shops have a glass guy come in and do the work. I'm uncomfortable that the glass guy will know the special steps necessary to replace a 911 windshield. Maybe it's not a big deal but will they get a good seal, connect the windshied antenna correctly? What about my old rubber and moldings, do those get replaced?

I can ask my mechanic to watch over installation and specify what needs to get done. I imagine it's best to replace the rubber and moldings wtih new ones.

Someone suggested having the glass guy come to my house to save mechanic's fees. I'd rather pay a little extra to have a pro supervise it. What should I expect, grand total, to have it done at mechanic's shop (parts + labor, including new seals and modlings)?

Any negatives to replacing the windshield? I heard it's good to do because you can get in there and check for early rust.

Would appreciate any thoughts/comments. Car is 1986 Carrera Coupe with original windshield.

Pete

Bill Gregory

You want to find someone that knows what they are doing. When they cut out the old windshield, they can nick the metal, and if they don't touch it up, rust bubbles will follow some day. I've always used the Porsche rubber seal, as I've heard others rubber seals aren't as good as the factory, in terms of fit. You might try calling some independant Porsche mechanics to ask them who they recommend to do the glass. Cost varies depending on whether you want American or German glass. I've been told American is a little harder glass and is cheaper. For German figure $450, give or take, installed.

ricwon

I had to have my windshield replaced last fall. I found a reputable glass co. locally. It was a sigla with a tinted top band, and cost was $495. I bought the windshield rubber from Pelican and that cost $49.20. So far, no leaks.Ric

911Dave

How's the condition of your dash? To replace the dash you have to remove the windshield, so this would be the time to replace the dash if it's cracked or warped.

If I were you I would feel more comfortable having it done under a Porsche shop's supervision. And I would spring for new seal and rubber surround no matter what, since they're relatively cheap.

RANDY P

Just had mine done - Big rock bullseye was simply getting to me. $179 installed with PPG Glass. No big deal.

Process was the installer sat behind the wheel and simply pushed on the corner of the glass and the windshield came right out. Removed metal trim, then the seal and put it on the new glass. According to the installer you want to keep the seal if it's good since it's molded to the glass and the car already. Wraped a rope around the seal and placed it in, pulled the rope and done.

Good time to check for rust around the sealing area and clean it out. Be ready.

pgsandiego

Im looking into this also.
For my 82, no antenna, Ive received three quotes of just over $300 for "premium" glass (securit or pilkington). All use an aftermarket gasket. Ive heard the aftermarket gaskets leak, but all shops garantee "no leak."

All three were recommended by local good Porsche shops so, any of the three would probably do a great job. My hanging point is the gasket. I'll probably order one from Pelican and ask for a discount at the shop (for providing my own gasket). I hadnt thought of re-using my gasket, but might not risk it as it's 22 years old.

Call your local Porsche shops. They know who has porsche/windshield experiance

Patrick

PS I beleive 86 was the first year you DIDNT have to remove the windshield to remove your dash. Now the headliner is a different story....