How to Install Windshield Weatherstripping (Rope-In Method)

What Is the Rope-In Method?

The "rope-in" technique is the industry-standard method for installing rubber-gasket windshields on classic cars. Instead of fighting to flip the rubber lip over the pinchweld by hand, you use a rope to pull the lip over smoothly from inside the car.

Note: This method applies to rubber gasket (rope-in style) windshields, NOT modern urethane/glue-in windshields.

Materials Needed

• New windshield gasket (Metro seal)
• Cotton rope or nylon cord (approximately 12-15 feet, 3/8" diameter)
• Dish soap and water mixture OR Vaseline/lubricant
• Helper (strongly recommended)
• Wooden or plastic tools for pressing
• Complete Installation Kit (GLK-1) includes many essentials
• Strip caulk or windshield sealer (optional, for leak prevention)

Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Remove Old Glass and Gasket

• From inside the car, apply even pressure to push the glass outward
• Have a helper support the glass from outside
• Remove all old gasket material and clean the pinchweld thoroughly

Step 2: Inspect the Pinchweld

• Check for rust, dents, or damage
• Repair any damage before proceeding—uneven pinchwelds cause leaks
• Apply rust-preventive primer if bare metal is exposed

Step 3: Prepare the New Gasket

• Install the gasket onto the glass FIRST (they go in as a single assembly)
• Work the gasket's inner lip around the entire perimeter of the glass
• Use soapy water or lubricant to ease installation

Step 4: Install the Rope

• Feed the rope into the gasket groove that will sit on the pinchweld
• The rope goes INSIDE the channel where the outer lip will flip over
• Run the rope completely around the perimeter
• Both rope ends should meet at the BOTTOM CENTER of the windshield, extending inside the car
• Leave 6-8 inches of rope tail on each end

Step 5: Position the Glass Assembly

• With your helper, position the glass/gasket assembly into the opening from outside
• Press the gasket's outer edge against the pinchweld all around
• The gasket lip should be tucked under, held by the rope

Step 6: Rope It In

• From INSIDE the car, pull one rope end steadily along the pinchweld
• As you pull, the lip will flip over the pinchweld and seat properly
• Have your helper press firmly on the outside of the glass as you pull
• Work from the bottom center toward each corner
• Repeat with the second rope end, going the opposite direction

Step 7: Seat the Gasket

• Use a wooden tool to press any areas where the lip didn't fully seat
• Work around the entire perimeter
• Verify the gasket is evenly seated with no gaps

Step 8: Apply Sealant (Optional but Recommended)

• Apply strip caulk or windshield sealer between the glass and gasket inner groove
• This provides extra leak protection without being visible

Pro Tips

• Lubricate generously. Soapy water or a Vaseline/lotion mix on the gasket makes roping MUCH easier.
• Warm rubber works better. Install in 60°F+ temperatures, or warm the gasket with a hair dryer.
• Don't rush. Steady, even rope-pulling is more effective than jerking.
• The joint location matters. Position the gasket seam at the bottom (less visible) or top (easier water runoff).

Chrome Trim/Locking Strip

If your application uses a chrome locking strip:

1. Complete the rope-in process first
2. Install the locking strip into the outer groove AFTER the gasket is seated
3. Use a locking strip tool for even insertion