todd reid
Gold Level Sponsor
Paul,
I removed and replaced the glass on my Series V with the frame on the car. I used the "sting method" for replacement. Based on my limited experience, it seems that it would be easier having the frame anchored to the car rather than floating on your work bench, because it takes some force to get the glass into the rubber. I don't know if the earlier Series cars were different or not - hopefully someone else will chime in.
puff4
Platinum Level Sponsor
I used the "sting method" for replacement.
I assume you mean the 'string' method? In which case, yes, the job can be done that way.
The WSM is entirely silent on how to replace the Alpine windscreen - it only details the removal (but not replacement), but it does say to remove the entire assembly to do the job. However, as you noted, using the string method will work and the windscreen can be replaced in-situ.
Having said that, the lower seal (w.s. frame to body) is almost always shot on these older cars, and as a result there's usually rust beginning on the screen frame and/or scuttle. Plus, it allows water to come in and piddle on your shoe when driving in the rain (my car did that very nicely). So, sometimes it's just easier and more thorough to just have the whole lot off and re-seal and restore everything in one go. The only issue is getting the screen back in the proper alignment, and as noted by others, there are some handy-dandy adjustable bolts that make that a lot easier. Also, if one accurately measures the existing screen's angles and placement
beforeremoval, it will make reassembly one heck of a lot easier, and with less fiddling. Kind of a modification on the old adage "Measure twice, remove once".
Ron67Alpine
Silver Level Sponsor
Unfortunately, as I've just learned it's almost impossible to replace the lower chrome frame surround, without at least raising the frame, some, to allow the chrome piece to slide into the lower gasket. I spent a day trying and only succeded in tearing the rubber. It may be possible, but I couldn't do it. Someone posted a warning about this, recently, but it was after I'd already mounted the frame to body. Installing the window in the frame, mounted, using the string method, was pretty easy. Use soapy water as lube.
