Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I have an opportunity to choose between a used or new ( I assume that means NOS) windshield for my '52 200. So the question becomes, are there any issues that may crop up by using a used windshield?

Things I can think of are, haziness, delamination (especially around the edges), or brittleness? As in, could there be an issue with possible breakage when reinstalling the used glass?

That would be my biggest worry, I guess. Any basis to this?

If it looks good, it is good. Bullseyes and nicks make it more likely to crack in handling if it was removed or handled carelessly. Glass becoming more brittle is not a familiar concept to me.

I BOUGHT AN OLD ONE AND IT BROKE ON SHIPPING. BRITTLE

Sure, glass is brittle and can break. I remember the size of the package when I bought a new reproduction windshield for the 56 Caribbean from Phillips Auto Glass, the box was larger than a very large refrigerator and the glass was supported every which way - folks that make a living shipping windshields know how to pack them to withstand the rigors of shipping.

i got a new windshield . got the new rubber . it was tinted. fixed the rust got at the corners of the channel. put it in three or for times to get it right.

then the punks kids threw a rock at it or something and broke it.

I dont think i will describe how i felt.
but i need anther one now.

my shipping Slip says Solex. which my good Aussie friend says is green tint.
i found a used one seven hundred miles away for cheap. but again.

i am worried about it cracking on instillation. I have done the installation before so i am familiar but is there a temperature outside that is better for installation of a used windshield. HOT out or cold? other tips would be appreciated

Used is just as old as nos so go used if in good condition and is cheaper.

Windshield glass is safety "laminated" and has clear plastic sandwiched between two sheets of glass to prevent breakage. Over time this plastic can degrade/discolor(heat&UV) and lose strength.
Glass is also susceptible to micro stress cracking over time, so one day it's just fine and the next day it has a crack propagating on one or both sides of the laminate depending on how it was stressed.
If you wash your car on a hot sunny day and the interior/glass gets real hot and then hit windshield with a cold water spray, this will tests it's "crackability". Wash in the shade if possible or while it's still cool.
Side glass sold now is usually "tempered" which makes it shatter, break into small pieces, when it breaks for safety reasons. Shards are deadly in a crash scenario. The older wreck photos, have alot to head imprints in the windshields from being thrown through the windshield, prior to seat belts.
I believe the glass on my '49 is laminated throughout, as the edges are getting yellow, so for the early models tempered wouldn't be "correct" but safer. Not sure what year they switched.
Folklore sez DuPont had a clear overliner material that prevents glass from breaking and it was rejected for cost reasons.
I worked on some glass chemical strengthening projects in my work daze. We made hot end coatings for bottles to prevent them from breaking during packaging and recycling and the Low E flat glass.