need help.....someone educate me here

I'll chime in here to save you some problems down the road.

Use Steele Rubber gaskets not cheapo aftermarket ones. You will have 100% better chance of getting it installed properly and it fitting right. Ask me how I know if you want.

If you have never installed one then hire a glass installer to help you. Best $100 - $150 you will ever spend.

Getting the old windshield out can be tough but if you cut the gasket and use some piano wire to go around the windshield you can do it yourself relatively easy.

Clean up the area around the frame so it looks like new and touch up anything that may be ratty or rusty.

Good luck.