Back Window Glass: Service and Repair
REMOVAL1. Remove the rear wiper arm.
2. Apply protective tape along the edge of the body to protect it from damage.
3. Cut the lip of the rear window molding by using a razor knife, and remove the lip.
4. Use a tool like that shown in the figure, and insert the blade into the sealant.
5. Pull through the sealant around the edge of the glass.
NOTE: The rear window glass has fastener-type pins as shown.
6. Make a hole through the sealant between the rear window glass and the pins from the inside of the vehicle by using an awl.
7. Pass piano wire through the hole.
8. Wind each end of the wire around a bar.
9. Working with another person, saw through the sealant between the rear window glass and the pins. Use a long sawing action to spread the work over the whole length of wire to prevent it from breaking.
10. Remove the glass.
11. Turn the pins 90° clockwise and remove them.
12. Remove the dam and spacers.
INSTALLATION
1. Cut away the old sealant by using a razor knife so that 1 - 2 mm {0.04 - 0.07 in} thickness of sealant remains around the circumference of the frame. If all the sealant has come off in any one place, apply some primer after degreasing, and allow it 30 minutes to dry. Then put on new sealant to create a 2 mm {0.08 in} layer.
2. Carefully clean the bonding area on the body.
3. Securely bond a dam to the glass 11.5 mm {0.45 in} from the edge. Allow it dry completely.
4. Securely bond spacers to the glass as shown.
5. Install the rear window molding to the glass.
1. Align the molding to the center of the lower edge of the glass. (A)
2. Align the molding to the lower corners. (B)
3. Install the molding from outside to inside. (C)
4. Install the molding from sides to the top. (D)
CAUTION: Keep the area free of dirt and grease, and do not touch the surface or the primer and sealant will not properly bond to the glass and body, causing leaks to occur.
6. Use a brush to apply primer to the bonding area of the glass and the body. Allow it to dry for approximately 30 minutes.
7. Apply an 11 mm {0.43 in} high bead of sealant around the circumference of the glass as shown. Keep the bead of sealant smooth and even, reshaping it where necessary by using a spatula.
8. Align the glass via the pins and install it onto the body.
9. Press firmly inward on the glass to compress the sealant.
10. Use a scraper to smooth away any sealant that oozes out. Add more sealant to any points of poor contact.
11. To prevent the glass from being pushed out by air pressure if a door is closed, open all of the windows until the sealant has hardened.
Hardening time of sealant
12. Check for water leaks. If a leak is found, wipe the water off well and reinstall the rear window glass.
13. Install the rear wiper arm.