5 replies to this topic

[miniGTS]

I have the windscreen kit from minispares with the joined ends. From what I read it's meant to fit with the narrow groove to the body and thicker groove windscreen.

I think the guys who did the bodywork fitted it the other way around. They never fitted the locking strip because the screens needed to come out again so I could do the headliner. The headliner is now done and I tried to fit the screen rubber the 'correct' way but it doesn't stay in place and the corners fold outward and creases. So is it possible that the rubber has now stretched having it fitted the wrong way around for a long time?

I managed to get the rear in the correct way and without the locking strip, it seems to fit better than it did the other way around.

Anyone have a picture of the minispares windscreen rubber fitted so I can compare it to how mine looks?

This is how I refitted it... The same as the bodywork guys because it's the only way I can get it in. Does this look right or wrong way around?


 IMG_20260405_181927_edit_151599516565408.jpg   31.95K   6 downloads

[Minirook]

Yours appears to be correct. Some of the corners will protrude outwards until you install the locking strip, at which point your helper will lightly push the glass inwards while installing the locking strip around the corners. The locking strip is not my favorite job, but I found that if you use dish soap with just a bit of water in the groove and the locking strip it goes in much easier, as well I use a heat gun (lowest setting) on the rubber and locking strip prior to the soaping the parts up. Everything went smoothly after that. The locking strip is started in the middle of the lower side of the glass and it helps to have a helper keep the strip centered on the groove in the rubber. There are many different ways to accomplish this task and this is what I have found to be the easiest. Also check the lower edges of your glass in the corners to make sure the windshield is centered other wise you will be doing this twice.

Edited by Minirook, 06 April 2026 - 06:18 PM.

[miniGTS]

I did the rear locking strip today. I left the car out in the sun and that warmed the rubber nicely. It went in without too much hassle. The rear seal seemed to fit the body and windscreen the proper way around.

The front locking strip seems like it will go in OK after doing a test fit with some off cut locking strip but 2 local mini specialist have said the front seal is not in the right way and both suggested I get from a local supplier that they use.

So now, do I leave it as is and fit the locking strip or get a locally supplied seal and redo it.

What's the worst that can happen if I put the locking strip in as it is?

I've driven it a few hundred km without the locking strip and not had any issues.

[Minirook]

Here is my take. You can tell after the strip goes in whether it's any good because the rubber on the window side will push up against the glass locking it into place. If after your done and it does not look right then consider what your locals are suggesting. Or get a second opinion. This guy Craig is my parts supplier, engine guru, and very experienced at putting in glass. Here is his email cwmcmini@gmail.com ask him. You can tell him John from Kelowna suggested you get in contact. Good luck!

[miniGTS]

Thanks, I think I will do as you suggest, fit the locking strip and see if it fits OK.

With the heavy duty tool, some lubricant and some patience, it's not such a painful job...

[miniGTS]

I fitted the locking strip and it seems to be sealing Ok. I guess time will tell but for now, that's how it will stay.