02-02-2013, 11:06 PM
(This post was last modified: 02-02-2013, 11:10 PM by broncosbybart.)
Thanks Biff.
Well, got some more done.
The windshield frame wasn't in very good shape so it was removed. I cut the upper part right off the windshield frame hinge using a cutting disc on the angle grinder.
The early year models had bolted windshield frame hinges. Later years (like thie 77 here) were spot welded to the tub. I like to remove panels or pieces that are spot welded by grinding them off, if I am replacing them. I use a 4.5" angle grinder to do it. As the grinder near end of the piece of metal, the metal will discolor like in the picture below. From there, grind slowly so that the metal piece below isn't damaged. I like to get it really close and use a pry bar to try and 'pop' the 2 pieces apart from there. Repeat about 80 more times and the windshield frame hinge is off...
After that I will take a flap disc on the angle grinder and smooth everything out. Don't go crazy with it, but get the left over metal and high spots. My plans are to bolt the new windshield hinge, so I plan on cleaning this area really good to eliminate the surface rust and prevent it from coming back.
SORRY- bear with me. Pics aren't uploading at the moment.
Well, got some more done.
The windshield frame wasn't in very good shape so it was removed. I cut the upper part right off the windshield frame hinge using a cutting disc on the angle grinder.
The early year models had bolted windshield frame hinges. Later years (like thie 77 here) were spot welded to the tub. I like to remove panels or pieces that are spot welded by grinding them off, if I am replacing them. I use a 4.5" angle grinder to do it. As the grinder near end of the piece of metal, the metal will discolor like in the picture below. From there, grind slowly so that the metal piece below isn't damaged. I like to get it really close and use a pry bar to try and 'pop' the 2 pieces apart from there. Repeat about 80 more times and the windshield frame hinge is off...
After that I will take a flap disc on the angle grinder and smooth everything out. Don't go crazy with it, but get the left over metal and high spots. My plans are to bolt the new windshield hinge, so I plan on cleaning this area really good to eliminate the surface rust and prevent it from coming back.
SORRY- bear with me. Pics aren't uploading at the moment.