Author Topic: S1 Backlite Removal  (Read 362 times)

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Offline My S1

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S1 Backlite Removal
« on: Wednesday,October 11, 2023, 03:57:54 PM »
How difficult is it to remove and replace the backlite on an S1 Europa?  It feels like a pretty sloppy fit but I'm reluctant to pop it out.  Is there a special tool for replacement?

Offline dakazman

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #1 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 03:51:05 AM »
  What backlight?
  Inside car or your taillights?

  Pictures?
Dakazman

Offline jbcollier

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #2 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 05:42:27 AM »
Backlite = rear window

It is very easy to remove.  You can pull out the locking strip and gently push it out but probably the best way is to simply use a razor and cut it out.  Less chance of breaking it that way.  Order new rubber and locking strip and follow the manual’s instructions on putting it back in.  Use only plastic or wooden tools when fitting the glass.  You will a special tool and soapy water to install the locking strip.  I like the ones with a wire tip as there is less chance of tearing the seal.

Offline My S1

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #3 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 08:13:49 AM »
Thanks John.

Offline My S1

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #4 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 08:23:13 AM »
Surprise!  The locking strip was not installed on my car.  I suppose that is why the glass is flopping around in the hole.  John, would you please drop a picture of your special tools for me if you get a chance?

Offline dakazman

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #5 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 10:36:22 AM »
  Windshield Locking strip installation tool , see pic.

 The seal kit is pictured and available at RD .

Dakazman
 
   

Offline My S1

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #6 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 10:46:21 AM »
That is most helpful.  Thank you.  I suppose there is a learning curve that I'll have to climb.  From what I've heard the WS is far more challenging than the backlite.

Offline RoddyMac

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #7 on: Thursday,October 12, 2023, 11:56:26 AM »
Other way around, the backlite is an absolute pain, the windscreen is a breeze compared to the backlite.

Offline jbcollier

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #8 on: Friday,October 13, 2023, 06:40:04 AM »
These are the type of tool I prefer:

https://www.misterworker.com/en/ks-tools/locking-strip-insertion-tool-160mm/80331.html?gmc_currency=9&SubmitCountry=CA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqJXssZLzgQMVVSWtBh3wJgT8EAQYCCABEgIdivD_BwE

It has a roller to press against the strip and a wire guide loop which has no edges so it slides better in the groove.

YMMV

Offline jbcollier

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #9 on: Friday,October 13, 2023, 06:47:47 AM »
I’m a cocky, know-it-all, bastard.  I worked 35 years on European cars.  I took one look at the instructions in the manual and thought, “What a load of baloney.”  I got a friend, lube, string and went at it the way I have installed dozens of windows in the past.  2 hours of cursing and repeated attempts, it wasn’t in!

My friend went home.

I then sat down and carefully read the manual.  45 minutes later, the rear window was in, including the locking strip… by myself!

The only change I made from the manual’s instructions was to use plastic pry tools not dull metal as suggested.

Offline My S1

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #10 on: Friday,October 13, 2023, 08:22:19 AM »
You have every rite to be a cocky, know-it-all bastard.  Don't change a thing.

Offline dakazman

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #11 on: Friday,October 13, 2023, 09:42:11 AM »
 :I-agree:
 
Dakazman

Offline dakazman

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #12 on: Monday,October 16, 2023, 09:22:58 AM »
  Here is a complete kit that should get the job done .
I put mine in by myself pretty fast BUT  I was standing in the engine compartment, on removed shell and I had no firewall in .
Dakazman
   

Offline My S1

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Re: S1 Backlite Removal
« Reply #13 on: Monday,October 16, 2023, 09:44:58 AM »
Outstanding.  Thank you.