window glass compatibility

[dvonk]

i have a special model #43. does anyone know if the glass is the same size as say, a model #41? e.g., could i take the glass from a #41 and put the window frame from my #43 around the glass?

[dvonk]

does anyone have any idea if it is possible?

[58limited]

Which window are asking about specifically?

[dvonk]

apologies, i just re-read my post and realized it's somewhat vague. the windows to which i was referring are the windows in the doors that roll up and down. in the model #43 (and, i believe, the other Riviera models as well) they have a stainless trim around the glass. on the #41 the door glass does not have this stainless trim.

is the door glass on the Rivera just the sedan door glass with the stainless trim around it? i.e., will adding the trim to a #41 window make it work on a #43?

i hope that clarifies it a bit.

[58limited]

I looked in my parts manual and the glass has different part numbers for the two models, which means the glass is not interchangeable. Fortunately, this is flat glass and can be cut by any glass shop if you have the old glass to use as a pattern. The Riviera models do not have the divider post between the doors and this makes the glass significantly different (longer).

Alternatively, I've found places in Hemmings Motor News and on the internet that have the patterns and sell the glass for a reasonable price. They can provide either clear or the original E Z EYE tint used on A/C cars. Some glass places can even etch the lettering and date codes into the glass.

[dvonk]

excellent, that answers my question. it makes sense that the glass would be longer on the Riviera models, but mine is the only '58 Buick ive actually seen in person, and it is hard to tell from looking at pictures of other '58s. thanks!

[groundhog180]

Hello,
I had a rear side window cut for my 58' Olds sedan this past May. It is a direct interchange with my 58' Special 4dr sedan. My interchange book gives glass dimensions between all these years/models and sometimes there will be just an inch or so difference.

As 58limited stated the glass shop made a great replacement for around 60-70$ and re-cemented the new piece into the original frame with a new rubber seal. Mine was clear,but tints are available for a bit extra.

Saves looking for an old piece of glass in a parts car you probably won't find anymore......Lee

[dvonk]

Lee,
thanks for the input, I had always wondered the approximate price range for a glass shop to cut a piece but had never asked. that is definitely a feasible price, especially if you consider the shipping costs for buying a used window on ebay. new glass sounds like the way to go!

[groundhog180]

Hi Dvonk,
I believe the size of the glass made up the price. It took about a week or ten days to pick it up,because they were backlogged with other orders. Considering I had it out of the car and laying broken/ spider-webbed on a shelf for a few years a week was short....Lee