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Subject:Re: leaky windshield
From:FRANK CONDELLI
Date:Mon, 1 Jun 2020 05:41:31 -0400

I have replaced many windshields using the original seal and new seals.  NO sealant is needed to make a water tight install, period !  If there is a leak there is a problem with the frame or the seal.  The frame is either rusted or was rusted and repaired poorly and is out of it’s proper configuration.  The metal lip that the seal sits on must be in perfect original condition.  The seal must be installed with a good lubricant to allow it to sit down on the metal lip and make a watertight seal.  I use KROWN <https://www.krown.com/en/> rustproofing oil applied to both the metal lip and the rubber seal.  It serves three purposes, stops rust if there are any unpainted, unprotected metal surfaces, allows the seal to slip into its proper position without undue force and keeps the rubber supple.   Since you are so far from the installer you need to have someone local remove the windshield and seal without naming the seal (this IS possible, I have done it many times) then photograph any areas that are not correct and try to get compensation from the shop that did the original install.  The new installer must be aware of the problems related to these Vanagons.  Leaking in the bottom corners is VERY common due to a variety of reasons.  The installer must be aware of this and know how to repair the problems, not just install the windshield !

> On Jun 1, 2020, at 12:00 AM, Automatic digest processor <LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> wrote:
> 
> Re: leaky windshield

Cheers,    

Frank Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
'87 VW Westy, '00 Kawasaki 250 Sherpa, "98 Ducati 750 Monster 
Frank Condelli & Associates <http://www.frankcondelli.com/> - Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Parts
BusFusion <http://www.busfusion.com/> a VW Camper camping event, Almonte, ON, June 11 ~ 14, 2020
Lionel Trains (Collection for sale <http://www.frankcondelli.co/trainsal.htm>)

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