Rear view mirror options

[PSJ]

Hi all, I'm considering two different rear view mirror options for my 17 Touring... the clamp-on version or the suction cup type. I'm hesitant to do either because, for the clamp-on clamps right on the metal window frame and there's a metal slider behind the mirror that touches the windshield. This doesn't seem like a good idea. The suction cup version requires the base to be adhered right onto the glass, which I'm not too jazzed about either. Which is the better option or is there another one I should consider?

The last thing I want to do is damage the window frame, gum up the windshield, or even worse crack the windshield.

[Russ_Furstnow]

The very best rear view mirror is sold by Antique T Motorsports. Bill Bohlen take pride in his product and his mirror is, by far, superior to all other rear view mirrors. The cost of producing these mirrors has gone up and they are more expensive than other mirrors, but they are a great value, and thery WORK!!
I hope this helps,
Russ Furstnow

[TRDxB2]

Here is the link to ANTIQUE MOTOR SPORTS
https://www.ebay.com/str/antiquetmotorsportsllc

[Mark Gregush]

Are you asking about outside or the ones mounted center of windshield? Either case, the clamp on type, there isn't going to be enough force to crack the windshield unless maybe the setscrews somehow dig into the glass. You could use a piece of thin rubber such as inner tube material to protect the frame. While there might be some paint damage, this is how they pretty much have been mounted for many years.

[Oldav8tor]

After trying other mirrors (clamp on) I settled on a pair from antique motor sports for my 1917 Touring. In my opinion they are the best available. For extra coverage I have a Model A type mirror attached to the spare tire on the left running board.

[Art M]

If you mean an outside mirror, my two work well. They are fastened the the windshield frame with the screws
used for the side curtain clips. I haven't used the side curtains since 1977. The car is a 1923 touring.

The mirrors were installed 5 years ago and have never given any problems. Rather expensive, but a good value for the safety.

Art Mirtes

[Steve Jelf]

I have never used anything mounted on a suction cup that didn't fall off sooner or later, usually sooner. My side mirror clamps on the windshield frame, cushioned by a couple of layers of old inner tube to protect the paint and dampen the vibration. Vibration? Sure. This is a Model T. But it's not bad enough to keep me from seeing what's behind me.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNhMiW67cmw

[PSJ]

What do you guys use for the center of the windshield? And is it worth it to put a side view mirror on the front right side (opposite the driver side)?

[speedytinc]

I prefer 2 W/S mounted side mirrors. Right & left side. The center mirror is generally useless with the top up or a load of friends.
Relying on a center mirror & driver side creates a dangerous blind spot on the right side.

[PSJ]

Thanks all for your quick replies. Very much appreciated! I will go with left & right side mirrors with some rubber to protect the painted frame.

[Steve Jelf]

This mirror came to me in a pile of auction plunder. I made the windshield clamp from electrical conduit and Gorilla tape.

[PSJ]

Steve, I like what you did there. I may steal your idea!

[Oldav8tor]

A few comments.
A centered mirror atop the windshield is pretty useless if you put the top up.
What if you want to fold the top of the windshield down for old-time air conditioning?
Yes, I have a mirror on the right side. There are times it comes in handy.
All mirrors shake (the Antique Motor Sport types shake the least) - the clamp on type even tend to move around requiring more frequent adjustment.

Good luck!

[PSJ]

Thanks Tim for the words of advice. Very much appreciated!