Darrin Windshield Replacement

[324darrin]

Many of you have already done this or had it done so can you tell me the procedure for replacing the windshield on the Darrin?
It looks to me that the side supports need to come loose from the body but that looks very involved. Any tips or pitfalls to watch out for? Thanks in advance. Steve

 

[joefrazer]

It is best to remove the side stanchions as well as the upper and lower windshield frames as a unit. There are about a dozen nuts and bolts that hold the lower frame in place and they can be hard to reach.

No two windshields go in place the same way but the rule of thumb is to install as a unit as well. I've heard it said that when an owner decides to replace a windshield, keep two handy because you will break the first trying to get it lined up.

I once spoke to a gent who worked at the assembly plant and put these cars together. He never mentioned how many windshields they broke getting them in the car but I would imagine it was more than just one or two...

[darrin502]

The Darrin windshield must be installed in the frame off the car then installed on the car as a complete unit.
I have found that the windshield stantions groves need to be checked for size depending on what glass you are using original or viricon it may be necessary to mill the groove larger. . Also very important check the groves for any bures these will crack the glass in a heartbeat.
Most stansions use shims between the body and stantion where it bolts to the body at the door opening. Do not tighten these bolts to tight.
Take your time and have helpers at least 2 and you.
Good luck
Lee

[324darrin]

Thank you for that valuable information. the replacement windshield arrived yesterday. Can't afford two so I have to get it right the first time.  It looks to me that the fasteners are all on the sides holding the stanchions in place and none holding the frame from the cowl. It that correct? Steve

[darrin502]

Some stanchions have a bolt at the front inside the fender that screws up into the tip of the stanschion   
The rest are bolts and nuts under the dashboard. These bolts hold some braces and the windshield wiper motor.
Good luck
Lee

[joefrazer]

I’ve owned two Darrins..car 30 did not have bolts at the tip of the stanchions while car 183 does. With the door slid completely forward you should be able to see them, if present. Of course, getting a wrench in there is another matter...