w124 front windshield replacement DIY
 

The windshield cracked today. I am going to get a quote but would like to get an idea of doing it myself. How difficult it is to remove one from junk yard and install it myself? Is it within the realm of a home DIY? Any tips or pit falls? Thanks.

Why would you want to go through all that trouble to end up with an already pitted shield?
I had mine replaced 3 weeks ago for $200. Local shop did it in my yard.
Safelite wanted $365
I know it's not an OEM shield, but It's new and clear and I didn't have to do anything.

I have no firm plan to replace it myself. The price you paid seems very reasonable.

I have removed one (an OE windshield in nice shape) from a wreck, and plan to have it installed in another car. It took two people to remove, using a cable to cut the windshield free. We used a piece of bicycle brake cable with wooden handles to pull back and forth around the perimeter, one person inside and the other outside. It was pretty hard work! The cable broke several times.

I looked into what is involved with DIY installation, and you need a special powered urethane dispenser to get an even bead all the way around the frame, so the glass sits level and is sealed all the way around. In my opinion, much better to pay an expert to install it.

There's supposed to be a length of nichrome wire that runs through the windshield seal. Attach it to a battery and it melts the seal, window comes off. That said, when I had the windshield done on my 190D, I had a glass place come out and do it in the parking lot at work. They weren't able to get the old windshield off in one piece, not that I cared. It would be a horrible job without two helpers and their special tools. Horrible. it was the best $200 I ever spent. This was the place I used:

http://www.windshieldstogo.com/

They coordinate with local installers all over the country. Their negotiated price is lower than if you were dealing directly with the installer.

Nope, not for 124. I think that was for earlier cars?

Official MB Service video training on 124 glass removal:

https://youtu.be/PcJTtMBqoqY

I've known 2 bodymen fairly well. Neither installs glass - ever, not even their own. Both can cut apart 2 sides of a vehicle and put them back together. The best deal you'll get is to have the glass installed. Much less chance of breaking or leaking.

Bonus: time spent researching glass can be spent on AC research.

I hear you all loud and clear. I don't need AC research, I know it all :). Next research subject.