Karmann Ghia coupe 1966  rear widdscreen seal (146 530 703) 66–74
143845521C
The parts that will be for sure evaluated with each Karmann Ghia restoration are the rubbers, which are in most cases altered by the weather and cause leaks.
Good quality rubber is an important aspect, poor quality can lead to leakage and premature dehydration of the rubber.
These so-called Deluxe rubbers are equipped with decorative molding and were originally used by Volkswagen with each Karmann Ghia that left the factory.
From 1968, the convertible version was equipped with a glass rear window, before that it was part of the convertible roof. This fixed rear window is also mounted with rubber in the cabriolet frame and has no decorative moldings, it consists of a profiled strip that is stretched around the rear window, so the following mounting method is not applicable for this window.
Rubbers for the front and rear windows of the coupe and convertible are delivered without finishing molding, which often also need to be replaced. If they are available, they are listed under the options tab, if they are not listed, you must replace the original moldings.
Mounting the rubbers is easier with a piece of rope, here’s how to do it:
1. Tighten the rubber around the glass.
2. Place a piece of rope in the groove that will later be positioned in the bodywork.
3. Apply glycerin to the window frame (see also the note on this subject).
4. Slowly pull the rope through the inside so that the rubber falls on the raised edge of the bodywork.
6. Once mounted, press the window firmly into the rubber and check inside to see if the rubber is in the groove.
The assembly of the rubbers is only possible by two people, one pressing the window firmly into the groove and the other slowly pulling the string between the rubber through the inside of the car. At the point where the rope ends meet, you put them a little on top of each other, which makes it easier to install the window later on.
Note : During assembly, use only glycerin and no other lubricants such as grease, soapy water, multi-spray or other substances, the rubber will be affected and within one year cracks will appear in the corners. No guarantee can be given if it is demonstrated that other means have been used.
Warning : The difference in year of manufacture between the front and rear windows of the coupe and the front window of the convertible is in the shape of the decorative moldings. If you have a pre-1966 car and no longer have any original moldings, use the 1966 and later rubber in combination with the recommended molding (see tab options).
