I would drop the claim, and do the work that has to be done. If the windshield is only pitted and not cracked, drive it until it gets some bad spots, then replace it. What will happen next winter? The area that you are in may put you into the same situation again and then what? I would live with the damage and do what you can to minamize it. The problem with these great cars is that we are the ones who recognize the value and care about them. If we have one (or more) already, we are always looking for "A Deal", not a high priced one that is in good shape with lots of miles. Good luck on your choice, and I hope you can keep it and enjoy many more miles.