The used YJ windshield frame that we had picked at our favorite U-Pull was solid and void of any rust, BUT as often happens when a soft top channel is installed to the top of the frame using the supplied sheet metal screws, they always work loose and will eventually create cracks in the sheet metal along the top of the frame. Why Jeep didn't reinforce that area with thicker metal or a backing plate baffles us. Needless to say ours was. Badly I may add. We tried brazing the cracks, but with the metal so thin it just blew right thru. Threaded rivet nut inserts were also tried. And these might be a good cure if done when new, not after the cracks have already developed. Since we had previously modified this frame to accept CJ defroster ducting, the thought of doing it again on a new frame wasn't something we looked forward to. So we devised a method and decided to practice on this frame and if it didn't work out then we would buy a new frame and install threaded rivet nuts.We used 1/4" thick by 2" wide steel plate cut to length to insert thru a slot made in the front of the frame. The location of the original screw hole was marked on the plate then removed and a hole was drilled and tapped 10-24. The plate was then reinstalled and secured with a 10-24 machine screw. Two 1/8" pop rivets were installed on either side of the screw and the screw removed. The excess was then ground flush with the front of the frame and mig welded and again ground flush. The pop rivets were later removed and replaced with counter sunk screws so as to provide a smooth surface for the soft top channel. The whole works was then sent off to Garys Auto Body along with the tailgate and some other miscellaneous parts. The font of the frame was body worked to make the welded areas were presentable. Now we have a solid 1/4" thick backing plate to thread in a 10-24 screw to hold down the channel. The practice piece worked so a new frame was not needed. Next will be the glass install and that will only be trusted to H & M Ebling Glass This has been a 2 generation family owned shop that has never disappointed me. I have dealt with others and have always had problems or had to settle for a compromise.