1997 - 2003 F-150

Rear window leak

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Old Jan 15, 2010 | 04:22 PM
  #1  
Reloader's Avatar
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Joined: Dec 2003
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From: Anaheim Hills, California
Rear window leak

Hi all...
I know that this subject has been discussed time and time again because
I have used the search function and read tons of threads on this issue
including two very informative how-to posts on removing and resealing
the back glass, so I'm somewhat informed that this is a common problem.
I have a 2002 Screw with the solid one piece back glass and I have a leak
over the right rear seat dripping onto the front of the headrest. I learned
that the weatherstripping between the plastic surround and the metal cab
is not for keeping water out, but mainly for keeping out dirt and debris, correct?

On my truck, that weatherstripping is very uneven, like showing in spots
around the surround and other places it is well pushed in towards the glass.
When I replaced the third brake light bulb I think what I saw was the actual
window seal. It looked like it was sort of weather checked, if that actually
was the window seal. I also noticed that the third brake light/cargo light
housing does not have a sealing gasket to seal it to the surround. I don't
think it would make a difference if it did. Am I correct in assuming that?

Now, is there a cheap easy fix for the leak problem short of resealing the
glass? I don't really have the time or spare funds right now to have the
glass removed and re-sealed. I read where a lot of guys said it was the
third brake light causing the problem, but I think that was for 2004 & newer
trucks, correct?

Sorry for this being so long, but I'm just trying to find a solution that won't
cost very much. I've thought about RTV caulking between the surround
and the cab all around the perimeter of the surround but I'm not sure if
that would have any positive results.

Anyway, what do you guys think? And no, I'm not a cheap-azz, my family
is going through a few hardships right now and money is really tight for us.

Thank you for any suggestions, and yes, I already have a clear plastic tarp
draped over the whole back seat.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2010 | 11:52 PM
  #2  
maddoughboy's Avatar
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Joined: Jul 2007
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From: WA State
I know that when I tore apart the rear of my truck it was a bolt in glass> not haveing ever done a f-150 but other bolt ins that I have done have a black goo that we call gum tape if I remeber correctly, shouldn't be that much, you would then just pull the nuts then pull the window, clean the area, reaply and install. The preassuer between the two will seal it.
 
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Old Jan 16, 2010 | 07:53 AM
  #3  
mcolford's Avatar
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Joined: Aug 2008
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From: Indiana (North Central)
I resealed my 98 with a sliding rear window. It took me a little over an hour, and I bought this window sealant from NAPA for 15 dollars. It was pretty straight forward. This stuff was on a roll, and I just unrolled it onto the frame of the window, and rebolted the window into place. Not a lot of time or money involved I thought.
 
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Old Jan 16, 2010 | 11:53 AM
  #4  
Countryboy828's Avatar
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Joined: Jan 2010
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YaI have the same problem...Didnt realise that I had the problem and installed my custom boxes and my amp,and boom. No amp now! I went through the roof when I found out what was going on. (no punn intended). I have an 2003 f150. So wasnt hard at all when taking out the glass and everything?
 
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Old Jan 31, 2010 | 07:16 PM
  #5  
k.despies03's Avatar
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Joined: Jan 2010
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I just finished my fix today, took me about 2-3 hours in all.
I have a 2000 F150 Ext cab with the silder.
You have to remove back seat, BUT only the back rest, not the bottom seat.
I also removed the side pannels on the side of the window.
I also removed the head liner, but it is not nessissary to completely take it out.
There are 12 bolts i belive you need to remove. My window was stuck to the frame, so i took them both out.
And painted the frame while i had it out to a nice black.
I used Trim Paint from dupli color. Very nice looking.
anyways, all you have to do is remove all of the old stuff, and then
i used RTV silicone i belive it was called black smething, not sure of the brand,
And gooped it up all around the window, set it in, and then evenly HAND tightend the bolts.
Waited about an hour, then tightend with a box wrench.(didnt have a deep enough socket)
Was pretty easy.
If you need more help met me know.
Karter
 
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