I purchased new u- window channel from S.I. Now comes the time to actually install it in my Champ pickup. Since the new channel is very stiff, how do I go about bending it to fit the upper back part of the door frame? I don't want to mess up the new channel, so I figure I have only one shot at this.
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Replacing u-channel in Champ Pickup
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Yes.... you have really only 1 shot at it. You need to make sure that the ends of the channel are not crimped tight when being cut to length (you can always trim "after" fitment. The easiest way to bend the channel is to remove the window and bend/form around the known curve for best result. You will likely be installing the cat whiskers anyway, so its a good time to check regulator and all adjustments, lubing, etc while in there. Follow the shop manual or expect to pull some hairs out....Watch out for the Jesus clips for guides...
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THIS: "You need to make sure that the ends of the channel are not crimped tight." If it has the chrome bead, the ends of that bead need to be open. Why? There is a plastic(?) insert inside that bead that will push it's way out as you bend it. That needs to happen to make and maintain the radius of the curve. A little at a time. Go slowly.KURTRUK
(read it backwards)
Nothing is politically right which is morally wrong. -A. Lincoln
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Isn't the method usually used, to just Cut little wedges out of the flat portion, every 3/4" to 1 Inch around the curve, to form it to the shape of the Upper, Rear of the Door Frame?StudeRich
Second Generation Stude Driver,
Proud '54 Starliner Owner
SDC Member Since 1967
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I've always started by using my thumbs at the bend radius and start to form the large radius required. Don't rush it. Work the slight curl out of the remaining straight sections as you go - you can feel that you can then continue forming the radius with less resistance. Go back and forth from taking the slight curl out of the straight sections and then forming the required radius and you will not damage or kink the run channel at all.
I have been re-channeling Studebaker door windows for decades now so I barely have to think about it. A few months ago I did a demonstration at a Northwest Chapter meeting and I think everyone realized it was not difficult.
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Well, I went ahead and tried to bend the u-channel by hand and that was a disaster!! Will have to order another length of channel for the otherside. I found that from the bottom of the steel channel in the door, the u-channel should be approximately 31" from being even with the bottom of the steel channel in the door to the center of the bend at the top of the door. Use and old 4" cut-off wheel to put in the u of the u-channel and bend it around, being careful to allow the chrome strips to slide as you bend the channel around. Hope this saves someone else some money... though an expensive lesson, it seems easy now!!Laisez le bon temps roulez avec un Studebaker
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Originally posted by BRUCESTUDE View PostGood tips! I am currently replacing door panels and windlace on my Lark, and have all the cat whiskers and channels on order! One thing I remember from other projects is to order extra cat whisker clips, as the old ones are usually rusty.
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There are some videos on Youtube regarding this. The only time I ever did this very well was after a guy at a glass shop showed me some tips. I believe he had me make little slices across the fabric on the back of the part that would be on the outside of the bend. That was a long time ago and I need a refresher for my current project."In the heart of Arkansas."
Searcy, Arkansas
1952 Commander 2 door. Really fine 259.
1952 2R pickup
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I just finished replacing the u-channel and cat whiskers on the Lark's rear doors; I've done this on other years but this one seemed a little harder, mainly the cat whiskers and removing the glass. The first channel I rushed it and sort of kinked the first bend, it's usable but I'll definitely notice it. For the second channel I built a wood jig to hold everything as I bent it around the glass.... what a difference-it looks excellent and fits great. With the new channels and lubed regulators etc. the windows are nice and snug and roll up and down with no binding!
I wish I could go back in time and watch the assembly line workers install the cat whiskers! My second attempt was easier but still a pain, I imagine if this was your only job on the line you'd be very proficient at it!
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I think the same thing about going back in time to watch the assembly of the Studebakers.
Better yet, I wish I could have worked for Studebaker.
BTW, to bring in the new year go to You Tube and listen to the beautiful voice of Sissel singing "Auld Lang Syne".
I'd never heard of her until a club member sent me an email with the link to Sissel singing Auld Lang Syne.
Words can't describe how great she is. You can listen to several of her songs on You Tube.
I need to look for a nice CD player that I can plug into the lighter on my 1950 Champion, so I can play her CD's.
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