Windshield Crack Today

[ltslimjim]

So, I was almost at work today driving the old Civic VX and here comes a metal ring(the kind that supports plastic wheel covers) flying over the SUV in front of me. Sure enough I had no reaction time and after digging a nice 'paint to metal' scratch upon contact with the hood, it proceeds to make a nice little crack in the windshield. I just got home from work now.

It's a small 1/2-1 inch vertical 'hairline' like crack. The inside glass isn't damaged. A small chip at the end of the crack makes a somewhat deeper 'gouge'.

I've used some windshield repair kits before. Does anyone have a preference, Permatex or VersaChem etc?

I thought we had some from a repair before, but I can't find it. I'm about to head out to buy some to apply tomorrow to cure in sunlight. I'd like to get this done so it won't spread and save myself from buying a windshield.

 

[simple_gifts]

I assume you don't have windshield coverage on your insurance? Mine covers crack repair as well.

 

[ltslimjim]

No, this car only has minimal insurance coverage and I couldn't stop the guy in front of me in time to get his insurance information. So, even if I could 'prove' it was kicked up by his car, oh well now. We are talking about a 1992 vehicle, I can ask but I don't think the insurance covers this. Still, it doesn't seem like 'that' big of a problem yet if this kit repair works like it did last time for me. Just trying to get some info or tips on the repair, any recommendations. Not necessarily insurance advice.

 

[wrcsixeight]

I had something similar happen back in the mid 90's, but the windsheild was a complete loss.

My insurance covered it, and the very next month they had increased my bill by 27$ a month.

Thus began my overwhelming hatred for insurance companies which continues to grow exponentially.

 

[Astro14]

Doubt anything will be permanent...and in some states, if it's in your field of view...then it will not pass inspection...

I just replaced the windshield on the 4-Runner out of pocket...it was $179 and installed in my driveway...

Good Luck!

 

[ltslimjim]

Originally Posted By: Astro14
Doubt anything will be permanent...and in some states, if it's in your field of view...then it will not pass inspection...

I just replaced the windshield on the 4-Runner out of pocket...it was $179 and installed in my driveway...

Good Luck!


Well, if it came to that, I'd hope I can get it done under $200 for sure. No worries on it impairing my vision or line of sight/FOW.

 

[lairdwd]

Dude - if you are going to try a DIY repair, you need to do that like yesterday. Once the crack becomes too elongated, it's beyond repair.

I did a bunch of research on what is the best repair kit, and this one got best reviews.

http://www.amazon.com/Fix-Flat-Windshield-Do-Yourself/dp/B000EA5WLS

 

[Errtt]

Some of those windshield repair places will take care of the insurance part for you if your insurance will cover it.
Some windshield places around me won't back up their repairs if a quarter can't completely cover a crack. I guess a crack larger than what a quarter can cover has a reduced success rate.

Few months back I got a windshield replaced on my daily work vehicle. The very next morning on my way to work, it got hit by a rock thrown by a passing truck - Grrrrrrrr

 

[ltslimjim]

Originally Posted By: lairdwd
Dude - if you are going to try a DIY repair, you need to do that like yesterday. Once the crack becomes too elongated, it's beyond repair.

I did a bunch of research on what is the best repair kit, and this one got best reviews.

http://www.amazon.com/Fix-Flat-Windshield-Do-Yourself/dp/B000EA5WLS


Thankfully, I did the repair the morning after starting this thread. It seems to have done well. I got the Permatex Kit, though I have used that Fix a Flat brand kit before with moderate success as well. It seems like a thin, hair line like scratch that's about 1/2 an inch long. It doesn't feel deep at all, certainly not to the inner membrane or inner glass pane. The patch hopefully will hold it from ever growing, but we'll see. It's hard to notice it without knowing where to look.

 

[maersk]

The crack will spread with body flex.

I know you're supposed to cross etch ahead of the ends so it won't grow.