Ghia windshield trim for early 1966

[russelltatedotcom]

Hi guys , I wonder if you can help me with something?
I need a new windshield trim for my 1966 KG.

The problem is the windshield is 17.5” deep and takes the C-channel moulding.
From what I can see on the internet, nobody is making it, only the T-profile channel which is for a 17” deep windshield.😞
Does anyone gave a contact for C-channel trim or have any suggestions as to how I can insert new trim ?

Thanks
RT

[Era Vulgaris]

The C-channel trim molding is not reproduced by anyone. The only option you have if you definitely want to use it and it wasn't on your car, is to find it for sale in the classifieds like I did. I'm also restoring an early 66, before the trim change that came halfway through that year.

The only way to use the later T-trim is to buy the later, smaller windshield. The opening for the windshield stayed the same, it was only the windshield that changed size to accommodate the different trim style. You can't use the T-trim with the early, larger windshield. It won't fit.
_________________
Currently own:
66 Karmann Ghia, L390 Gulf Blue, under construction, here: www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=760505&highlight=
99 Mazda MX-5 10AE, Sapphire Blue Mica, 6 speed, LSD

Previously owned:
98 Porsche Boxster, silver, 2.5L -- 67 Karmann Ghia, Black, 1500sp -- 98 BMW Z3, Atlanta Blue Metallic, 2.8L I6 -- 75 Porsche 914, Laguna Blue, 2270cc -- 72 Porsche 914, Signal Orange, 1.7 FI -- 74 Karmann Ghia, Black, 1600dp -- 74 Triumph TR6 with O.D., sapphire blue

[russelltatedotcom]

Thanks Era, so If I understand you correctly , if I buy a 17” windshield and use T-seals and T-profile trim all of them should fit properly inside my early 66 Ghia windshield frame ?
Also could the rear window use either C or T profile trims and seals because the glass size DID NOT change from 66 to 67?
Confusing stuff, but great to have people like yourself sharing your knowledge on The Samba!

[Era Vulgaris]

[Braukuche]

[russelltatedotcom]

If I had to wait for C trim to turn up. I would not mind, it’s just the quality 😞 Everything else on my car is nice and new looking with sign of wear pitted trim would let down the look and to to expect to find mint condition might be setting the bar too high. I’m considering getting a new screen so I can fit T profile Trim and seals. I know the expense might seem mad but the look of the car would be consistent. I guess there is also the risk of getting the right repro glass to be the right size and not under 17” deep

[Era Vulgaris]

[Era Vulgaris]

[russelltatedotcom]

Hi Era, this turning into something bigger than Ben Hur now!

So glad I found out about thickness when looking into new windshields.

I also made enquires in Australia and found a supplier that has glass that is 17.3" deep which may or may not be too deep, but it has ....a green tint to it, so that is another curve ball to consider?

Your idea of Re-chroming might be worth considering? I thought it was Anodized Aluminium but if it is brass it might be possible

[sputnick60]

I had my C trim rechromed. Electroplating Technologies in Queenbeyan. Copper Nickel and Chrome plated. He also did my vintage Cinelli Super Corsa bicycle.
Nicholas
_________________
'66 Karmann Ghia Cabriolet...
'65 Porsche 356C Coupe...
2005 Mecedes Benz C180 Kompressor Estate
Stop dead photo links! Post your photos to The Samba Gallery!

[Braukuche]

The repro aluminum T trim BTW looks nothing like the chrome trim in finish. It is mat vs shiny.
I had chrome C channel trim rechromed and they ruined it by welding wire to the trim to suspend it in the dip. If you get yours rechrometell them not weld anything to the trim. If they are not careful they can also distort it which makes it a nightmare to reinstall.
I ended up hunting around for decent originals and paid out the nose for a good set, like $400, but after reading Era’s summary I guess I got off cheap!
_________________
Go Reds! Smash state!

Retirement is here!
1956 Ghia
1959 SO-23 Westfalia
1960 double cab
1963 stretched double cab
1962 Golde sunroof Ghia
1963 356 B coupe
1963 Ghia coupe
1965 Squareback
1967 Ghia convertible
1967 21 window rust bucket
1970 Ghia convertible
1972 Ghia coupe
1973 Ghia convertible
1974 Ghia convertible

[russelltatedotcom]

Thanks guys, Wow, the idea of re-plating (what ever the cost) is certainly something I'm going to look into.
It just completely cuts out problem of new glass being:
Too tall, short, wrong colour or too thin.

I'll look into the platers you recommended Nicholas
(Are you are part time P.I.? how do you find all these obscure suppliers!)

The only other question is who supplies the best Moulded corner C-profile trims!

[sputnick60]

[Era Vulgaris]