1970 A-66 Challenger Convertible

[DetMatt1]

You're too kind, really. I'm far from an expert but I am an enthusiast.

 

[340challconvert]

Trouble with the Windshield Molding Clips?
Purchased repro molding clips. They are physically smaller then the originals.
Worried about the molding fitting correctly.
I "pre-fit" the surround molding to the clips and the height of the molding seems OK. This was of course without the windshield.
Using the 3M window weld kit, so the windshield height with the sealer should be close to stock.

Has anyone that used the reproduction clips had any trouble with the height of the clips and setting back the surround molding?

 

[moparlee]

I have run into the same thing and that is quite a difference in height. And I don't think there is any difference in the clips between the windshield ones and the rear window clips.

 

[340challconvert]

I have run into the same thing and that is quite a difference in height. And I don't think there is any difference in the clips between the windshield ones and the rear window clips.

I'm almost thinking of using the original clips rather then the repros. They are in overall good condition?

Another point to make: the holes in the clips: originals seem to have a little up and down adjustment with the screw hole, almost oval vs. new clips, if put into original screw holes seek to move up every so slightly, making the top of the clip closer to top of the lip.

 

[DetMatt1]

I almost certainly used new clips and had no issues. I should also mention that I had a glass guy come to my shop to do the install including the installation of the trim.

 

[challenger6pak]

If the originals are good, I would use them.

 

[aussiemark]

If the originals are good, I would use them.

I agree if they're all like the one in the photo that looks great not even a trace of rust.

 

[340challconvert]

I agree if they're all like the one in the photo that looks great not even a trace of rust.

Thanks for the feedback! I put the originals in Evaporate-rust. Stuff works great.

 

[quapman]

Make sure you coat them somehow so they don't rust up.

 

[AUSTA]

Put some copper coat on the screws you could spray the clips with zinc coat

 

[340challconvert]

Finally installed a new tinted windshield with the 3m window weld kit.
Decided to order clips from Roseville; great. Clips were very close to originals.
Cleaning up the surround molding. Coming out ok without extreme polishing.

 

[quapman]

You'll be cruising again soon!

 

[fk5aar]

The bottom trim on the windshield is the same for convertibles and hardtops correct?

 

[340challconvert]

The bottom trim on the windshield is the same for convertibles and hardtops correct?

I believe the bottom, wide windshield stainless panel is the same for both. Not 100% sure.

 

[340challconvert]

I like to see the original details;
Bottom of windshield corner surround moldings have a little sponge on the install clip to prevent metal to metal contact.
You can also see the way they pinched the edges to install the clip.

 

[340challconvert]

Finally getting to the back end of the Challenger; clean up and assessment of brakes, springs, shocks, looking for factory markings.
Correct 044 springs on both sides
489 case w factory 3:55 gears
Yellow paint on the differential yoke
Numbers stenciled in yellow on the differential

 

[340challconvert]

Would the 1022 stencil numbers stand for October 22?
The SBD as well as other original parts span from the first week of October 1969 through about the 3rd week of that month.

 

[340challconvert]

Differential case showing yellow and white stripes on bottom

 

[340challconvert]

Starting the next dirty clean up job!
Working on the rear axle and differential cleanup
Rear wheel well undercoating is a little tougher then the front inner fenders
Still using the dremel oscillating tool, sharp scrapers and a final DA 80 grit to do the clean up
So far luckily, no serious rust noted anywhere.
This dam stuff is thick; probably saved the car.

 

[340challconvert]

Original seams and sloppy original welds. Cleaning up nicely with elbow grease.