installing windshield and rear glass
 

Body still in primer and vinyl top has been stripped off on 71 GTO. Will install new top when car gets finished but in the meantime I would like to re-install front windshield and also the rear window. Would it actually be better to have the top installed first before installing glass or or does it matter.

I would put full paint under top and window openings
Yes it is better to do top first as its real hard to cut around the studs with glass in and you risk cracking glass too.

Ditto that!:)

x3. You'll get a better top installation w/o the glass installed.

X4 on everything above!!! And if you plan on installing a new headliner, do it while the glass is out also. It makes it a little easier to stretch and pull.

i'd be most concerned with painting the window jambs with a 2 component topcoat (catalyzed) so that you don't eventually get moisture under there and subsequently rust. irgoatmike