'59 Rear view mirror glass removal

[Ralph Messina CLC 4937]

I’d appreciate any help in the proper way to remove the glass mirror from the metal housing of a ’59 interior rear view mirror. I have to do some restoration of the housing and don’t want to experiment on a fairly nice piece. Also what is the best way to reattach the glass mirror when I’m finished?

Thanks,

Ralph

[Walter Youshock]

I've had luck using a plastic knife.  On the top, opposite the adjuster, at the center, carefully get the blade between the housing and the glass.  Work the knife to one side and the gals will either break or pop out.  I only had one break on me.

To reinstall it, lay it in the housing lengthwise.  Flip the housing over onto a towel and push on the corners of the housing.  It should pop back in.

There is or was a man in PA who repaired/replated mirrors by the name of Kaufmann.  I have his card at home.  Not sure if he's still in business.

[Bill Lucarelli #22702]

Ralph...great question, Thanks for posting and Walter for answering.......then what is the removal and reinstall for a 59 round outside door mirror?  Thank You

[Cirilian]

Bringing this back up since I have the same question that Bill had. Has anyone removed and repaired/replaced their door mirrors on a '59??

[Ralph Messina CLC 4937]

Guys,

I should have posted my results in removing the mirror…..I wasn’t very successful. I followed Walter’s advise and loosened the frame around the glass but the mirror none-the-less cracked when I tried to pop it out. ( That’s no reflection on Walter’s advise.) I didn’t find any evidence of adhesive; but the metal edge was rolled very tightly around the glass. I spread the frame quite a bit, to the point I wasn’t sure how I’d get it snug around the glass when I was done with the frame. This is one of those specialized tasks I probably should leave to a pro.

Ralph

[ray w.]

I use a piece of plastic sheet, the  type used on advertising signs. It is firm but very flexible. You can also find it at office supply shops. Take a piece of it and slip it between the glass and housing and the glass pops right out.

[ray w.]

I forgot to add do not over spread the housing or it will never sit tight against the glass.

[Bill Lucarelli #22702]

I will give the sheet plastic a try, sounds like it might be a better option.  I tried the plastic knife method but stopped as the knife seemed to thick to go inbetween the glass and the metal surround.....Thanks for the updates.