73 rear window option

[waterboy1976]

I know removable rear windows were available in 72 but my 73 has it and I have heard that a "FEW" 73's came through with them....anyone help here??

 

[Tom73]

Nope, no '73 came from the factory with the removable rear window. But it was and still is a very popular conversion.

tom...

 

[Crickett]

How involved is that conversion?? Does anyone know?

 

[mfendley]

Here's a thread on how I converted my 77 - collecting the parts is the time consuming task, the actual installation took about two hours (less the tray - another story)

77 Corvette and C3 Forum

 

[Tom73]

Tried to access your link and got "Only registered members are allowed to access this forum."

tom...

 

[Thumper]

I would like to see/read about your conversion. Can you post a link that works?

Thanks

 

[mfendley]

Putting a removable rear window in a 77 vette

First is the view from the rear - I lost my rear window defroster in the process, small price to pay.

This is a view from the inside with the lower trim piece removed so you can see where the rear window guide pin brackets are mounted. There is a spot already molded in the fiberglass, you just have to drill the holes to mount the plate. You can also see the locks at the top of the window.

This is a closeup of one of the upper locks. There is a flat spot to mount these already molded in the fiberglass, but you have to drill two holes for the bolts. I put the window in place and then held the locks so they were tight against the window and then marked the holes. I cut the rear trim piece, but I plan to buy the correct one from a 68-72.

This is a lower guide plate installed (there are two). There is a nylon piece covered by a stainless piece, and retained by two screws.

Finally, this is what it loos like when you have inserted the window guide pins in place, just prior to pivoting the glass up and locking the upper locks. Putting the window in or taking it out takes 30 seconds, tops.

 

[mfendley]

Part 2

Here's a picture of the installed window with all the trim pieces installed. Note that the rear window tray is also installed, but it folds flush so that it's not visible from this view:

Here's a picture of the tray looking up from where the driver's seat would mount:

This is a picture of the tray lowered. This is as low as the tray will tilt down, as it rests against the wheel tubs:

This picture is with the rear window installed in the tray. At the rear of the tray (top of the glass window) is a metal clip that clips over the top of the window to stop the window from moving. The tray is molded for the window to fit into the depression. Note the little cups to allow room for the window guide pins.

Finally (and a little off topic) here's a picture of the completed passenger seat installed. I had the leather covers made in red and black (kinda like a Z06) to carry thru the red and black theme of my interior. My car had the red leather interior originally, but I decided that an all red car with an all red interior was too much red for me. When I get the car repainted, it will be bright red with some sort of black accents.

 

[Culprit]

Nicely done - thank you for the pics and description.

Culprit

 

[Crickett]

That looks great!! I've gotta do that soon!! Is it very difficult to do? How easy is it to find all those parts?

 

[mfendley]

The window and tray are the hard part - I bought both off eBay ($100 for the window and $70 for the tray) I have seen tray go for as high as $400! The latches, guides, and seals are available aftermarket. I bought mine a Paragon, since they had them all in stock; paid about $130.