Shadyredeyes

I need some help fast. My front windshield on my '88 S/C is cracked and getting worse quickly. Is there any way to fix this or should I just get a new windshield? I only have liability insurance on it. Is anyone aware of any place to get a good deal on a windshield?

novafirebirdguy

You're probably just gonna have to replace it. Google windshield replacement or something like that an you'll find a few "discount" places.

BTW: your sig is awesome!

Shadyredeyes

Thanks for the info. I'll try that.

Iroctopless

Depending on the length and location of the crack it may be repairable. There are many places that do that by filling the crack with a clear bonding material. If it's too bad, then it will need to be replaced.

Some have had luck stopping a crack from spreading by drilling a tiny hole from the outside into but not through the glass at the tip of the crack. This creates a "dead-end" for the crack.

Good luck.

Shadyredeyes

I'll try that tomorrow, but it's about half way up the window starting from the bottom. Not good!

GTA50

I just had the windshield on my '89 Firebird replaced a couple of months ago at Speedy and asked about those temporary repairs for rock chips, etc. I was told that will buy you about a year and then the windshield will need to be replaced.

The funny thing is that I asked about the cost of a windshield for my '88 GTA, which will not be covered by insurance (I can get one from a wrecker for about $145, pulled) and the guy at Speedy said a new replacement is only about $120

Iroctopless

To many vaiables to be general about the results. Depends on the extent of the damage and the quality of the repair. Rock chips and small crack repairs can last years and years. Often right up to when the windshield must be replaced due to normal pitting causing unsafe glare at night.
If the damage is more serious a repair can be a roll of the dice or even impossible. With the damage that Shadyredeyes describes, I'd expect most places would say time for a new windshield.

PS; be sure to watch the quality of the windshield replacement. Some shops give a cheap rate or increase profit by taking short cuts. Examples . . . not using OEM type weatherseals or low quality ones (yields poor fit and water leaks), incorrectly prying the windshield out and damaging the windshield frame and even chipping the paint (yields rust and corrosion and future body work), not using the proper adhesive (yields water leaks and weak fit).
I've seen one shop damage the windshield frame so bad from prying the windshield out to save time, that they covered up their poor workmanship by using an extra wide weatherseal around the frame! There should also be no need for prying a windshield if the removal is done properly.

Shadyredeyes

I'm planning on drilling the windshield tomorrow to prevent the crack from spreading. But I shall soon look to replace the windshield. Anyone know where to get a good deal on one?

50bmgshooter

iTrader: (4)

usually any crack in your windshield that is inside the sweep of the wipers will fail you on a inspection

jb3829

iTrader: (1)

Yeah I second the last reply.....I had to replace the windshiel on my SUV because it would have failed inspection....just choose a reputable shop....and remember, you get what you pay for.

Shadyredeyes

I tried to drill the windshield today and that didn't work out too well. It just continued to crack as I tried to drill it. Looking for a new windshield as of.............now!

RU1NER

iTrader: (1)

Do they make replacement windshields with built in antenna's like in an 81 malibu (friend has one and had it replaced).