Windshield molding tool [Archive] - Chevelle Tech

: Windshield molding tool


DougA
Feb 11th, 05, 2:08 PM
Ebay #4526506241 Is this what I need to take the windshield molding of my Chevelle?If so how do you use it.Thanx

Jim Streib
Feb 11th, 05, 3:38 PM
That one is for releasing most window moldings. The trick is sometimes finding where the clips are. I used a similiar tool on a 68 Dodge Dart I'm working on for a relation and the channel had a lot of sealer and old pieces of the vinyl roof under the moldings but by taking my time I was able to get it all off without damage.
The tip of the tool is made to wedge in between the molding clip and the trim or the body edge of the car and then by either rocking it back on the rest of the tool or by applying pressure to pull the clip away from the molding the molding can then be lifted up and away from the clip. On the ones I have done I sometimes take a piece of paint stirring stick and once I start getting the molding loose I put in a piece of stick between the glass and the moldihg to hold it up while I work on the next clip on the molding.
A tip I can give is if you get one half off of the car the other side of the car should have the clips in pretty much the same spot (mirror image) to where it helps you locate the clips easier to get them loose.
Another tip is take your time just like I did on the Dart as I had no idea whereor how many clips were on the different moldings but once you use the tool it becomes easier the second time around. It's sorta like hammer and dolly work on sheet metal. You can't really describe how hard to hit the metal but once you do it some you get a feel for it. If all else fails, take the tool to the salvage yard and try it out on one of their cars.
One last thing, when you get the trim off and are removing the clips from the glass channel, make notes (or take photo's) as to where each one was at. Some use different clips in different positions and must be put back that way or the molding will not go back on.
Jim