Quarter Glass

Remove and replace the quarter glass (small fixed rear side window) on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including trim removal and seal installation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Quarter glass assembly × 1 — OEM Mopar replacement recommended
• Glass seal or adhesive tape × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Interior trim clips (if damaged) × 1 — Replacement as needed

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is off.
2. Open the door on the side where quarter glass is being replaced for access to interior trim.
3. Inspect the quarter glass area to identify whether factory installation used adhesive tape or urethane (adhesive tape is more common on this model year).
4. Protect surrounding interior surfaces with clean towels or masking tape to prevent scratches during trim removal.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Interior Trim Panel
   Locate the interior trim panel covering the quarter glass mounting area. This panel is positioned behind the door opening along the rear cabin side. Using plastic pry tools, carefully release the trim panel starting from the bottom edge. Work around the perimeter to disengage the retaining clips. Verify the exact number and type of retaining clips against the factory service manual before prying, as this is unconfirmed for the 2005 Viper. Pull the panel away from the body once all clips are released.
2. 2

   Disconnect Any Electrical Connections
   If the trim panel has any electrical connections (some models have courtesy lights or speaker connections in this area), disconnect the wiring harness by pressing the tab and pulling the connector apart. Set the trim panel aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove Quarter Glass Mounting Fasteners
   With the trim panel removed, locate the quarter glass mounting fasteners around the interior perimeter of the glass. Verify against the factory service manual whether the quarter glass uses any mechanical retention fasteners and, if so, their exact count, type, and location. Do not assume screw quantity or Torx size. Keep these fasteners organized for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Cut Adhesive or Sealant
   Using a razor blade or utility knife, carefully cut through the adhesive tape or sealant bonding the quarter glass to the body. Work slowly from the interior side, keeping the blade angle flat against the glass to avoid gouging the body paint channel. If urethane adhesive was used, a heat gun on low setting can soften the bond for easier cutting. Continue cutting around the entire perimeter until the glass is free.
5. 5

   Remove Quarter Glass
   With adhesive cut and fasteners removed, carefully push the quarter glass outward from inside the cabin. Have a helper support the glass from the exterior if available to prevent it from falling. Lift the glass away from the opening and set it aside safely. If the glass is being reused, place it on a padded surface to prevent scratches.
6. 6

   Clean Mounting Surface
   Remove all old adhesive, sealant residue, and debris from the body channel where the quarter glass mounts. Use a razor blade to scrape away thick adhesive buildup, then clean the entire surface with isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag. The mounting surface must be completely clean and dry for proper new glass adhesion. Inspect the body channel for any rust or damage and address as needed.
7. 7

   Prepare New Quarter Glass
   If installing a new quarter glass, verify it matches the original in size and mounting hole locations. Clean the perimeter edge of the new glass with isopropyl alcohol and allow to dry completely. If the glass does not come with pre-applied adhesive tape, apply new OEM-specification glass seal tape to the perimeter of the glass, ensuring complete coverage with no gaps.
8. 8

   Install Quarter Glass
   Position the new quarter glass into the body opening from the exterior, aligning the mounting holes with the body bracket locations. Press the glass firmly into place to seat the adhesive tape or apply urethane adhesive according to manufacturer instructions if that method is used. Ensure the glass sits flush with the exterior body contour. From the interior, verify alignment of the mounting screw holes.
9. 9

   Install Mounting Fasteners
   Install the retention fasteners (count and type per factory service manual) through the retention bracket to secure the quarter glass to the body. Start all screws by hand, then tighten in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Tighten the screws to secure the glass but do not overtighten, as excessive force can crack the glass. Tighten the retention fasteners to the factory-specified torque value; consult the service manual, as no verified spec is available in this procedure.
10. 10

    Reinstall Interior Trim Panel
    Reconnect any electrical connectors to the interior trim panel. Align the trim panel with the body and press firmly to engage all retaining clips. Work around the perimeter ensuring each clip seats properly with an audible click. Verify the panel sits flush with surrounding trim.

Reassembly

1. If urethane adhesive was used, allow proper cure time before closing doors forcefully or driving the vehicle (typically 2-4 hours minimum, 24 hours for full cure).
2. Inspect the quarter glass from exterior to ensure proper sealing and alignment with body lines.
3. Test door operation to ensure no interference with newly installed glass.

Verification

• Visually inspect the quarter glass from exterior and interior to confirm flush fitment with no gaps or misalignment.
• Check that all interior trim panels are properly secured with no loose clips or rattles.
• Pour water over the quarter glass area to verify proper seal with no leaks into the cabin.
• Open and close the adjacent door to verify no interference or contact with the quarter glass.

More procedures for this vehicle