Does anyone have some advice? I have tried 3 times today to get the mirror stuck back on my windshield. I have used the Permatex kit available at the auto parts store. I have followed the instructions to a T. When I attach the mirror to the button it holds for about 5 seconds then falls off. I am about to take the truck to a glass shop and pay them to do the job.
Step 1 - Use a straight razor blade to ensure there is no adhesive residue on the windshield, as well as on the button.
Step 2 - Clean both the windshield and the button with isopropyl alcohol. Let it dry for a couple of minutes before applying the adhesive.
Step 3 - Put one drop (no more than that) on the button only.
Step 4 - Push the button into position on the windshield and hold it perfectly still for 30 seconds.
Step 5 - Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before reinstalling the mirror.
I think I used the Permatex kit when the van spontaneously shed its rearview a few years ago. It worked great. All I can say is that hygiene is critical and you need to make sure the little button is clean as a whistle before gluing it on.
I also seem to recall letting it cure for 24 hours or so before trying to hang the mirror on it. Maybe that's the problem?
I have done everything suggested except let it sit 24 hours, the package says 30 minutes. I have been giving it 1-1.5 hours. I will try the long cure next. What type of glue is in the kit? Can I buy a big tube of it?
jstein77 wrote: Step 5 - Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before reinstalling the mirror.
This part is crucial. 
pilotbraden wrote: What type of glue is in the kit? Can I buy a big tube of it?
Secret magic windshield glue.
Maybe, but it'll probably cost more than the Permatex kit, and if you do it paying close attention to Step 5, you won't need more than a drop of it.
Actually, I think plain old superglue (cyanoacrylate) works just as well.
I gave up and now use a twist-lock suction cup with a RAM mount ball on the end. So far so good.
Permatex kit.
The trick is to let it tack up a little bit before putting the base on and holding it on the windshield. I waited about 45 seconds on mine. Then held it in place with my finger for a good 5 minutes.
Then waited 48 hours to put the mirror on.
Don't get any on your Hootus!
Drywall screw?
Just got done a week or so ago putting one on. Clean everything, hold in place for a period of time, and you're done. I didn't wait any time at all to put the mirror on, either. I usually scotch brite the metal button as well.
Don't buy the cheap glue kit... Clean the metal button with alcohol. Clean the windsheild spot with alcohol. Don't glue the button on upside down.
i always use 5 minute epoxy and they never come off, even if you want them to.
Did the kit have an adhesion promoter in it? That's fairly important, I've found.
RealMiniParker wrote:jstein77 wrote: Step 5 - Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before reinstalling the mirror.This part is crucial.
That was my success. Waiting a day.
Some windshields say double sided tape...others glue...be wary
jstein77 wrote: Actually, I think plain old superglue (cyanoacrylate) works just as well.
You run the risk of the fumes from curing fogging up the glass.
I used the Permatex kit when my mirror auto ejected on day one of an especially bumpy 2-day autocross. On day two, it auto ejected the mirror again. This time, it broke the mirror. Worse yet, the button also took a piece of windshield with it. I glued the piece of windshield back in, but I now have a crack slowly propagating across the top of my windshield. I hope it stays up there.
I've used those kits twice; never had a problem. You've got to have some sort of contamination going on.
I've used this stuff three times on the 914, the last time the NAPA counter guy gave me some "super strength" stuff that didn't work either.
I ended up going to an auto glass shop where they used some type of Lok-Tite. I should have written down the number of it.
No charge, but I flipped the guy a $10 anyway.
Dan
firsta rule of Italian driving: Whats'a behind me is not important!
Do NOT try to remove an old mirror button from the glass, you will rip a hole in the glass.
914Driver wrote: Do NOT try to remove an old mirror button from the glass, you will rip a hole in the glass.
Yup. 
914Driver wrote: Do NOT try to remove an old mirror button from the glass, you will rip a hole in the glass.
Actually, if you heat it a little from the outside, like with a grill lighter, you can usually pop the old one off pretty easily in order to clean any residue. The one on the van failed because it was a cheap aftermarket replacement and the puck didn't fit the mirror base correctly. I replaced it with a JY OE piece.
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