Although Ford trucks sit up fairly high off the ground, they can still get cracks and chips in their windshields from rocks flung at it by other vehicles on the road. Because a windshield serves a very important function, it is extremely important to replace it if you notice any chips or especially cracks. If you don't replace your windshield, it may eventually shatter. You can save yourself money if you can find a used Ford truck windshield in good condition from an auto wrecking yard. Make sure it's the exact year and model of your Ford truck.
Loosen one of the screws on the base of the rear view mirror and slip it sideways out of the bracket.
Remove each of the wipers by prying them off the wiper base with a flathead screwdriver. Position the screwdriver between the retaining nut and the arm and rock it back and forth until it comes loose. Set both windshield wipers aside.
Tape dashboard vents to prevent small pieces of glass from falling in.
Cut out the old rubber gasket around the windshield with a razor knife. Push the windshield out of the truck from the inside and have someone help you catch it from the outside front of the truck.
Clean the new gasket, the windshield frame, and dashboard with a wet cloth. Put the new gasket in a warm place to soften it and make it more flexible.
Spread a layer of sealant on the gasket channel, bottom part only. Slide the gasket around the windshield. Make sure you put the side with the slit facing outside of the Ford.
Spread a layer of petroleum jelly into the groove on the gasket and then place nylon cord into the groove. Start at the bottom center of the gasket and work your way all the way around the gasket. Make sure to leave a foot or two of cord hanging out on each end.
Place the windshield carefully into frame from the outside of the truck and let the rope ends hang inside on the dash.
Pull on one of the cord ends slowly to bring the lip of the gasket inside the truck. Have your friend push the gasket onto the outside of the windshield frame while you pull on the rope from inside the truck. Allow the sealant to cure for one day before driving.
