S1 Backlite Removal

[My S1]

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?

[dakazman]

  What backlight?
  Inside car or your taillights?

  Pictures?
Dakazman

[jbcollier]

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.

[My S1]

Thanks John.

[My S1]

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?

[dakazman]

  Windshield Locking strip installation tool , see pic.

 The seal kit is pictured and available at RD .

Dakazman
 
   

[My S1]

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.

[RoddyMac]

Other way around, the backlite is an absolute pain, the windscreen is a breeze compared to the backlite.

[jbcollier]

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

[jbcollier]

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.

[My S1]

You have every rite to be a cocky, know-it-all bastard.  Don't change a thing.

[dakazman]

 
 
Dakazman

[dakazman]

  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
   

[My S1]

Outstanding.  Thank you.