Canvas groove on windshield question

[jedawson1]

I am installing new canvas on my cab and the groove at the top of my windshield is too large to retain the bead on my new canvas. The bead looks to be the same as the canvas I removed.

Note, this is a replacement windshield not the original.

See attached pictures, groove appears to be 1/2 inch with an opening of about 3/8 inch. My canvas bead is 3/8 inch and just falls right out.

This is my first time installing canvas on an old truck like the M37.

Help, with the windshield groove is appreciated. I have read several threads about the rest of the install.

 

[jedawson1]

She's going to get her first bath, since reassembly, tomorrow. Got the troop seats stained, sealed and installed.

 

[NDT]

Carefully hammer it closed?

 

[jedawson1]

I was afraid of that, you think a block of wood and a mini sledge will do the trick? I didnt want to try something unfounded and cause a bigger problem.

Thanks, your feedback is helpful.

Jason

 

[dmetalmiki]

Golly! 'as they say..'...someone fitted a drain pipe on there.
Most all are a real struggle to fit as they very tight to pull through, requiring a good soaping..
As said, tap it TO FIT a little at a time, until l it has a tight but reasonable holding grip to pull through.

 

[M-37Bruce]

It is indeed a struggle, I'd use a block of wood and work your way back and forth. I had to run a steel rod through mine and one end was actually crushed.

 

[jedawson1]

I used a 2x4x4 piece of ash wood, took about 15 minutes. I was guessing on wood size to avoid too little progress vs collapsing a section, the 4" wide piece of hardwood did the trick.

Picks attached, the canvas is new and still stretching.

 

[808Morgan]

I was afraid of that, you think a block of wood and a mini sledge will do the trick? I didnt want to try something unfounded and cause a bigger problem.

Thanks, your feedback is helpful.

Jason

Get the dry lubricant spray for sails, I grew up sailing and it's the same situation, sliding that into a track. Spray it in the track and get it all over the bead of the top.

 

[nattieleather]

You did good as that is believe it or not the approved motor pool method of fixing canvas bead holders. Or at least it was here in NE Ohio when I was in service. Truck looks great!