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  Is it possible to remove black border/dots around windshield?

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Is it possible to remove black border/dots around windshield? by Raydar
Started on: 10-25-2024 07:45 PM
Replies: 3 (68 views)
Last post by: pmbrunelle on 10-26-2024 01:51 PM
Raydar
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Report this Post10-25-2024 07:45 PM Click Here to See the Profile for RaydarSend a Private Message to RaydarEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Not necessarily Fiero specific, since lots of vehicles have it.
Is it possible to remove the black border or dots that go around the edge of a windshield or back window?
Is there any chemical that will dissolve it? Bonus points if it will leave the defroster grid intact. Removing the glass is not an issue. That can happen, if necessary.
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pmbrunelle
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Report this Post10-25-2024 08:21 PM Click Here to See the Profile for pmbrunelleSend a Private Message to pmbrunelleEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
It's called the "frit", and it gives a good place for the windshield urethane to stick.

I don't know much more about it, but you can probably find more information if you google the keyword "frit".
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Vintage-Nut
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Report this Post10-25-2024 08:41 PM Click Here to See the Profile for Vintage-NutSend a Private Message to Vintage-NutEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Known as the "dot matrix" {or a.k.a. "Frits"} and their primary function is strengthening the bond. Efforts to eliminate them may harm the windshield and undermine its structural strength.

 
quote
Craig Campbell, founder and CEO of Auto Parts Guideline:
First and foremost, the frit band is critical in ensuring your windshield stays firmly attached to the car frame. They're there to hold the glass in place and keep it from moving around while the car is in motion. Without these dots, the glass could become loose and eventually fall out of the frame.


Myth 1: Frits are only decorative
Fact: While they do add visual appeal, frits are primarily functional. The rough ceramic paint provides a firm grip for the adhesive that bonds the windshield to the frame, ensuring structural integrity. 

Myth 2: The dot pattern is random
Fact: The gradual transition from a solid black band to smaller dots is intentional. Without this dot matrix, uneven heating could cause warping or optical distortions in the final product.

Myth 3: All frits are the same
Fact: While the basic functions remain the same, there can be variations in frit composition and design. Some modern cars might have a “third visor frit” that extends further down the windshield, offering additional sun protection.

Myth 4: Frits can be easily removed
Fact: Frits are meant to stay intact since the paint is ceramic-based and baked onto the surface. Efforts to eliminate them may harm the windshield and undermine its structural strength.

https://autoglassamerica.co...-dots-on-windshield/

------------------
Original Owner of a Silver '88 GT
Under 'Production Refurbishment' @ 136k Miles

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pmbrunelle
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Report this Post10-26-2024 01:51 PM Click Here to See the Profile for pmbrunelleSend a Private Message to pmbrunelleEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
While it may be a good practice to have a gradual dot transition from the edge, apparently a sudden transition from black to clear can be workable.

My Ford Ranger’s windshield has dots on the top and bottom edges, but not on the sides where the A-pillars are.
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