Windshield cosmetic trim removal

[Stephanos]

How hard is it to remove the chrome trim that runs around the windshield?

The original windshield didn’t have chrome trim; it was plain black (which I liked) When I had the truck painted,
I had the body shop put in a new windshield since the original one had a large crack on the driver’s side. They ordered
one with the chrome trim. I didn’t mind at the time, but now the chrome plastic (or whatever it is) is corroding  and
looks bad. I would like remove it sooner or later and put the black trim back in its place if I can.



Not long after I got it back from the shop ...


... and now the chrome is not so chrome anymore.

[Da67goatman]

Really simple, the piece is not one circle, there is a metal tab that covers the split.  (mine was center of the windshield on the bottom)  Pull the tab with a screwdriver and then grab the strip with pliers and pull, comes out real easy.  Putting it back in is the tricky part.  I used a couple straight blade screwdrivers to work it back in a little at a time.  Put one edge in all the way around then work the opposite edge in with the screwdrivers.  Be careful not to slip and damage the glass.  The worst part is being patient and not getting excited, the calmer you are the safer the windshield is.

P.S.  WD40 helps it slide in and keeps water out of the grooves.

[Irish_Alley]

they make a tool for removing it got one from snap on i don't know who else sells them. but i would try first tape it off then scuff it up and spray paint it

[topp]

Pull the tab as Da67goatman said.
Then pull out the trim.
Install the black rubber but instead of using WD40, use a solution of Dish detergent and water.  It will slip in easier and will not affect the rubber seal.
Do not use a metal blade to push in the new seal.  Start at the bottom center of the windshield and work your way around, slowly and patiently.

Do not try to paint it in place, or at all. The strip is rubberized and it expands and contracts with heat and cold. Also, no matter how you mask it as the outer seal expands and contracts, you will see where you couldn't get the paint in. 

[Irish_Alley]

So you don't think the fusion paint will hold up

[beastie_3]

Dont use dish wash soap, your truck doesnt have food on it. Use car wash soap.

[topp]

The paint will not hold up long.....

Dishsoap like dawn or palmolive works fine.  Most glass shops here use it.

[VileZambonie]

I use windex to aid in seal installation. It doesn't leave any residue.

This is a windshield lockstrip tool and it's a must if you want this to be an easy task.

http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-47000-Windshield-Locking-Strip/dp/B000COA1CQ

[beastie_3]

My windshield guy used that tool. It only took him a few minutes to install it.

[Stephanos]

Sorry for the late reply. Thanks for the info and tips. I’ll try and order the black windshield trim this week. Haven’t been in a hurry to replace it since its not anything major, just cosmetic stuff.

[Blazin]

When you order it they might not know what you mean when you say trim. Its called a locking strip, or some glass guys call it a zipper. Get the tool its worth the few dollars to save the aggravation. I use dish soap as well. I recommend not using it to wash a vehicle as it will dull the paint after repeated use. But a one time deal it will be fine. Just wash the truck after with car soap.